Study of the Month – August 2026: Own the Aesthetic Zone (Part 1) – A three level workflow that guides towards implant choice

The Right Implant Choice Starts Before Implant Selection

The aesthetic zone is widely recognized as a clinically demanding area in implant dentistry. Long-term outcomes are influenced by functional rehabilitation as well as by the condition and stability of peri-implant hard and soft tissues. For this reason, we are launching "Own the Aesthetic Zone*", a new educational series within our Study of the Month format.

Over the coming months, we will discuss clinical factors associated with aesthetic outcomes and present a structured approach to treatment planning and decision-making.   

A Structured Diagnostic Workflow for Predictable Decision-Making

The three levels outlined above provide a structured diagnostic framework intended to help clinicians assess the clinical situation and translate findings into an individualized treatment strategy.

Before asking which implant should be selected, a more important question must first be answered:

Which implant is the right choice for this specific patient?

Level 1: Patient-Related Factors

The first step is evaluating whether the patient is an appropriate candidate for implant therapy.


Key question:

Is the patient medically stable and able to follow the treatment protocol?

Among the factors assessed are:

• Medical history and treatment risks
• Patient compliance and commitment to maintenance
• Smoking status
• Uncontrolled diabetes or immune compromise
• Previous antiresorptive therapy or radiotherapy
• Untreated infection or periodontitis
• Bruxism and parafunctional habits


At the same time, clinicians evaluate phenotype modifiers that may influence aesthetic outcomes, including:

• Thin tissue biotype
• High smile line
• Increased aesthetic demands
• Preference for metal-free treatment concepts

After patient-related factors have been evaluated, the workflow proceeds to assessment of the implant site.

Level 2: Local Site Evaluation

The second level focuses on the planned implant site.

Key question:

Is the site suitable for the intended treatment?

Using digital imaging and clinical examination, clinicians assess:

• Bone height and width
• Buccal plate condition
• Socket and septum morphology
• Soft-tissue volume and phenotype
• Available restorative space
• Requirements for prosthetically driven implant positioning


This assessment ultimately leads to the next critical question:

Is immediate loading realistic and biologically appropriate?

Level 3: From Diagnosis to Treatment Planning

Implant selection should follow the assessment of patient-related and site-related factors.

At this stage, clinicians decide:

• Which implant concept is appropriate?
• Which implant shape is best suited for the case?
• Which diameter is appropriate for the anatomical and prosthetic requirements of the case?
• Whether an immediate or delayed protocol should be used

In this workflow, implant selection is positioned as a later step that follows structured diagnostic assessment.

What's Next: Which Implant Shape Fits the Aesthetic Zone?

This article lays the foundation for our new Own the Aesthetic Zone series*.

In the next installment, we will take a closer look at the three implant shapes of the SDS Aesthetic Line*:

• Triangular Form*
• Oval Form
• Standard Form

We will discuss the design rationale, potential clinical considerations, and relevant limitations of each implant shape, taking into account market-specific indications and regulatory status.

Stay tuned for clinically oriented discussions on factors that may support treatment planning in the aesthetic zone.



*Note for U.S. clinicians: Certain implant designs discussed in this educational series may not currently be available in the United States. Product availability and indications vary by market and regulatory approval status.

FAQ – About Implant Selection in the Aesthetic Zone

Note:

The information provided is intended for educational purposes only and does not replace clinical judgment. Treatment decisions should be based on individual patient assessment and applicable clinical guidelines.

Scientific Review & Medical Validation

Prof. Dr. med. dent. E. Schnurr (Scientific Advisor, SDS)

Provides scientific guidance for SWISS DENTAL SOLUTIONS. She researches the oral microbiome, biofilm infections, and their impact on overall health: from clinical research and data analysis to drug development.

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