Interdisciplinary Approach for Treating Esthetically Compromised Implants

The treatment planning of complex cases requires the highest level of knowledge and skill of the treating team. Whether we are looking at mid-facial recession or black triangle disease due to loss of papilla, it is an orchestration of procedures including proper sequencing and timing that makes the difference.  

Some cases will only need the restorative dentist, while others will need surgical and sometimes orthodontic treatment to maximize the esthetic outcome. Envisioning the final case before starting is required to know where the goal of treatment will be directed.  This, in conjunction with the patient’s needs and clinical situation, comprises the decision-making process for what is the best treatment for the patient.  

Learning Objectives

  1. Determining optimal incision designs to minimize esthetic problems
  2. Assessing whether pink ceramic should be used or if ridge augmentation should be performed
  3. Assessing which implants to save or remove
  4. Determining number implants to be placed in the aesthetic zone
  5. Assessing when and how to include orthodontics for sight development of lost papillae
  6. Assessing whether a case should be splinted or broken up into separate bridges or individual teeth
  7. How to provisionalize the case throughout treatment
  8. Determining whether implants should be placed immediately or in a delayed protocol

Dr Dennis Tarnow is currently Clinical Professor of Periodontology and Director of Implant Education at Columbia School of Dental Medicine. He is the former Professor and Chairman of the Department of Periodontology and Implant Dentistry at New York University College of Dentistry.

Dr. Tarnow has a certificate in Periodontics and Prosthodontics and is a Diplomat of the American Board of Periodontology. He is a recipient of the Master Clinician Award from the American Academy of Periodontology, Teacher of the Year Award from New York University and Distinguished Lecturer Award from the American College of Prosthodontists in 2015, and the Lifetime Achievement Award from the American Academy of Esthetic Dentistry.

Dr. Tarnow has a private multispecialty interdisciplinary practice in New York City, and has been honored with a wing named after him at New York University College of Dentistry. He has published over two hundred twenty-five articles on perio-prosthodontics and implant dentistry and has coauthored four textbooks including one titled The Single Tooth Implant.  Dr. Tarnow has lectured extensively in the United States and internationally in over forty-five countries.