Defects Involving Multiple Adjacent Teeth in the Esthetic Zone

Defects involving multiple adjacent teeth in the esthetic zone present some of the most challenging and consequential decisions in implant dentistry, particularly when severe hard- and soft-tissue deficiencies are present. While a variety of augmentation techniques can achieve impressive results, predictability remains variable, and incomplete correction often commits the restorative team to prosthetic camouflage with pink ceramics or composites. This presentation will critically examine the biological limitations and risk factors associated with reconstruction of vertically and horizontally deficient ridges in the esthetic zone. Through a series of clinical cases, practical diagnostic parameters will be introduced to help clinicians assess predictability, weigh the true cost of surgical reconstruction, and determine when alternative, more conservative treatment strategies may offer superior long-term esthetic and functional outcomes.

1. Identify key biological and anatomic risk factors that influence the predictability of hard- and soft-tissue reconstruction in defects involving multiple adjacent teeth in the esthetic zone.
2. Apply practical diagnostic parameters to assess when surgical augmentation is likely to achieve predictable esthetic outcomes versus when prosthetic or more conservative treatment strategies should be considered.
3. Apply practical methods of handling the vertically deficient ridge.

Presenter

Bach Le, MD

Dr. Bach Le completed his specialty training in Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery at Oregon Health Sciences University and is currently Clinical Associate Professor at the Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry at USC. Dr. Le has authored over 28 chapters in textbooks on bone regeneration and dental implants and has published extensively in peer-review journals. Dr. Le was inducted as an Honorary Member of the American College of Prosthodontists and is a recipient of the Charles E. English Award in Clinical Science. He is a Diplomate of the American Association of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons and holds Fellowship in the American College of Dentists, the International College of Dentists and the International Association of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons.