The widespread adoption of the osseointegration

technique and its subsequent application in an expanded array of clinical circumstances has resulted in an understanding of the prosthetic-dependent nature of implantology. This prosthetically centered approach has required the perpetual refinement of modern restorative objectives. Consequently, the discipline of implant prosthodontics is measured by the aesthetic and functional standards that are presently applied to contemporary restoration of the natural dentition. Traditionally, limitations at the restorative/implant connection have posed obstacles in the achievement of superior treatment outcomes. Complications often resulted in aberrant contours that were unaesthetic and difficult to maintain — particularly when managing compromised fixture placement. Several prosthetic components have been developed in an effort to optimize the emergence profile of implant-supported restorations by improving the relationships at the tissue-restorative interface. As experience with metal-ceramic implant-supported prostheses increased, further enhancement of treatment outcomes required that optimum emergence profiles be initiated at the fixture level. -13 This clinical realization resulted in the development of alternative implant diameters and thus allowed individualized fixture selection to specifically match the cervical widths of the replaced teeth. In addition, various restorative components (eg, Emergence Profile System, Gingi-Sculpt Abutments, 3i, Palm Beach Gardens, FL) have been designed to guide the healing of the supraimplant soft tissue contours. Despite their efficacy, however, it is impossible for any prefabricated abutment system to compensate for the infinite variations in gingival topography that may be encountered intraorally. TRANSITIONAL CUSTOM ABUTMENTS: OPTIMIZING AESTHETIC TREATMENT IN IMPLANT-SUPPORTED RESTORATIONS