Digitalized CAD/CAM protocol for the fabrication of customized sealing socket healing abutments in immediate implants in molar sites

Immediate implant placement in molar sites has the potential to improve patient treatment experience by reducing overall treatment time and the number of appointments. However, primary closure remains a technical challenge. Aim: The objective of this case series was to assess the final clinical outcome at the 2-year follow-up of immediate implant therapy in molar sites using a digitally fabricated sealing socket abutment (SSA) at the time of extraction. Materials and methods: This case series included 29 patients who received immediate implant placement in molar sites. A digital impression was taken at the time of placement, and a chairside CAD/CAM healing abutment was fabricated and delivered in situ to close the alveolar socket. Clinical assessments were reported with a minimum of 2 years of follow-up. Results: All patients reported uneventful postoperative recovery after 1 week of healing. No implant failures were observed. The assessment by an experienced clinician showed healthy and stable periimplant tissue. Conclusion: Based on the results of this study, the combination of an immediate implant placement protocol and a customized SSA seems to be a viable treatment alternative, although this needs to be confirmed by future prospective randomized studies. Keywords: CAD/CAM healing abutment, digital workflow, immediate implant placement, soft tissue healing, emergence profile, digital impression