Immediate implants in the aesthetic zone remain a hotly debated topic with many enthusiasts among clinicians, as well as many sceptics. This controversy appears to extend even to research, with the few available prospective studies often presenting seemingly conflicting outcomes.

The patient is referred for the creating of a zone of keratinised mucosa, buccal of the implant crown #46. After removal of the crown and placement of a healing abutment, a split-thickness, apically repositioned flap buccal of the implant is executed. The buccal side of the flap is fixed in an apical position with lateral sutures, exposing the periosteum.