An esthetic solution for restoring a labially inclined implant by using an additively manufactured plug-assisted retained zirconia veneer: A dental technique

Abstract

The facial opening of the screw access channel can lead to esthetic compromises in screw-retained restorations, while the use of cement-retained complete crowns may result in residual cement in the proximal areas, and traditional veneers without proximal coverage often lack adequate retention. To address these issues, a plug-assisted retained veneer was developed. First, the 3-dimensional position of an implant was obtained, and a custom abutment was designed to mimic the contour of a veneer preparation. Subsequently, the abutment was fabricated and positioned on the printed cast. After the acquisition of the scan data, a veneer with a plug was designed and produced. A reference scan was then obtained. Finally, the veneer with the plug was delivered, where a digital protocol was used to verify a good fit. This plug functions as a macro retention form while simultaneously seals the screw access opening, enhancing retention and the esthetic outcomes without compromising the fit.