The posterior maxilla presents with limitations due to the presence of the maxillary sinus as well as overall poor bone quality due to decreased bone density. As a result, procedures such as sinus and ridge augmentations are often required following tooth loss to prepare future implant sites for dental implant placement. The methods that are available for sinus augmentation involve the lateral (direct) approach and the crestal (indirect) approach. While a number of studies find comparable results for bone gain after sinus augmentation, the lateral approach presents with limitations including post op morbidity, and limited access for single tooth areas as well as higher potential of Schneiderian membrane damage. As a result, the crestal approach has been advocated. A number of modifications have been made to the approach to improve its efficacy since it was described by Summers in 1994 and the goal of this article is to review some of these improvements and how they have affected overall success of the technique.

The anterior maxilla continues to present with high potential risk for esthetic failure, and as a result, there is a clear need for modifications that would allow for natural-looking restorations that are harmonious with the rest of the mouth. A number of changes in protocol for placing implants such as using a restorative-driven protocol, the performance of a risk assessment and addressing factors that could compromise esthetics such as deficiencies in bone and soft tissue using bone and soft tissue grafts to ensure adequate tissue volume are necessary for dental implant overall success in the anterior maxilla. Understanding of timing with regard to implant placement has also contributed to achieving esthetic success in the region. This article reviews modifications made in implant placement in the esthetic zone and how they can contribute to functional and esthetic success in the anterior maxilla.

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Mucogingival conditions and Deformities involve defects in the morphology, position, quantity of soft tissue and bone that support teeth, edentulous sites and dental implants. They significantly affect the supporting tissue around teeth and implants, and can affect the esthetics, health and function of them. The goal of this article is to review Mucogingival conditions and Deformities and their impact on teeth.