Introduction

The long-term success of dental implants relies not only on achieving stable osseointegration, but also on the preservation and management of healthy peri-implant soft tissues. A natural and well-contoured emergence profile is essential for both function and esthetics, particularly in the posterior and esthetic zones. Traditionally, soft tissue shaping has required multiple procedural steps and components, including the use of provisional restorations and scanbodies. While effective, these additional stages can increase treatment complexity, prolong chair time, and pose a risk of disturbing the soft tissue architecture during repeated component exchanges.

The Straumann® Anatomic Healing Abutment (AHA) is a recent innovation designed to streamline implant workflows and support optimal soft tissue outcomes. Unlike conventional healing abutments, the AHA features a contoured anatomic shape that mimics the natural emergence profile of the final restoration, helping to guide and maintain the soft tissue form during the healing phase. Furthermore, its integrated scan surface eliminates the need for a separate scanbody, allowing for direct intraoral scanning without removing the component. This not only simplifies the prosthetic workflow, but also minimizes the risk of soft tissue collapse or trauma associated with repeated manipulation.

This case report presents the clinical application and advantages of the Straumann® AHA in a 38-year-old male patient who required an immediate implant placement following the extraction of a vertically fractured mandibular molar (tooth #37). The AHA was used to support tissue healing, maintain a stable emergence profile, and enable a fully digital impression workflow without additional temporary components. The treatment was completed within two months and resulted in excellent functional and esthetic outcomes. This case demonstrates how the AHA can enhance efficiency, reduce clinical steps, and support predictable tissue management in modern implant dentistry.

Initial situation

A 38-year-old male presented to the dental clinic reporting pain in the lower left posterior region. The patient, who had already informed himself about treatment options, expressed interest in receiving an implant, ideally placed immediately if the tooth could not be saved. The patient was systemically healthy, a non-smoker, reported no allergies, and was not taking any medications.

Intraoral examination revealed a vertical fracture of tooth #37, with probing depths up to 12 mm, bleeding on probing, and pain on percussion. The tooth was non-responsive to cold testing with CO₂.

Radiographic evaluation confirmed the vertical fracture and demonstrated adequate vertical and horizontal bone dimensions, indicating favorable conditions for immediate implant placement.

Treatment planning

The treatment workflow included:

1. Atraumatic extraction of the hopeless tooth #37.
2. Straumann® BLC Implant, Ø 4.5 mm SLActive® 10MM, Roxolid®
3. Gap-filling around implant #37.
4. Installation of AHA.
5. Intraoral scanning directly on the AHA.
6. Final prosthetic rehabilitation with a screw-retained monolithic zirconia crown on implant #37.

The patient received postoperative care instructions, and a follow-up appointment was scheduled for suture removal and routine check-ups.

The patient received oral hygiene instructions, and follow-up appointments were scheduled.

Treatment outcomes

The treatment was completed in approximately two months, with the patient reporting no discomfort throughout the process. By using the Anatomic Healing Abutment (AHA), we were able to achieve precise scanning and promote optimal tissue healing. This approach not only simplified the treatment, but also eliminated the need for a provisional restoration, saving both time and cost. The AHA played a key role in ensuring a smooth recovery and efficient implant integration, resulting in excellent functional and esthetic outcomes.