Implant temporization

Implant temporization is the use of a temporary tooth during healing. A published case report states that immediate temporization was provided to preserve soft tissue integration.

The temporary tooth stays in place while the implant heals and the gums settle. A temporary can help keep the gum shape that the final crown will need. Plans differ by case, and the treating dentist decides the type of temporary and how long it stays.

When the temporary is placed on the day of surgery, it is called immediate provisionalization. Temporaries matter most in the esthetic zone, where gum shape affects the final look. The final tooth is an implant crown.