Implant Uncovering
A minor surgical procedure to expose a submerged implant fixture after the osseointegration period, typically to connect a healing abutment.
Full Definition
Implant uncovering, also called second-stage surgery, is performed after a submerged (two-stage) implant has integrated with the surrounding bone. The overlying mucosal tissue is incised or punched away to access the cover screw, which is then replaced with a healing abutment. The procedure initiates soft-tissue shaping around the future restoration. Editors should distinguish uncovering from the initial implant placement, which is first-stage surgery. The term 'stage-two surgery' is an accepted synonym in clinical documents.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish clearly from 'abutment connection', which may occur at the same appointment but is a separate procedural step.
In Context
- "Implant uncovering was scheduled twelve weeks after fixture placement to allow adequate osseointegration." — Surgical case report
- "The clinician used a tissue punch for implant uncovering to minimise soft-tissue trauma." — Operative note