Aesthetic Zone Masterclass 2026 Recap: Two Days of Advanced Implant Dentistry

The Academy for Implant Mastery (AIM) recently welcomed dental professionals to Melbourne for its two-day Aesthetic Zone Masterclass, held on 9–10 October 2026.

Led by experienced Periodontist Dr Steve Soukoulis, the intensive course combined contemporary clinical theory with practical hands-on training, focusing on immediate implant placement, Partial Extraction Therapy (PET), tissue preservation and periodontal plastic surgery.

Proudly sponsored by Southern Implants Australia, the masterclass provided participants with an opportunity to further develop their clinical knowledge and surgical skills, with an emphasis on case selection, treatment planning and achieving predictable aesthetic outcomes.

Understanding Immediate Implant Placement

A major focus of the masterclass was the principles and techniques involved in immediate implant placement, including the factors that influence successful treatment outcomes.

Participants explored the importance of accurate diagnosis, anatomical assessment and implant positioning, with particular attention to the relationship between root position, surrounding bone and soft tissue structures.

The program also examined surgical protocols, grafting techniques and the role of implant design in supporting tissue preservation.

Specific attention was given to the Southern Implants INVERTA and Co-Axis implant systems, including their design characteristics and applications in immediate implant placement.

Through clinical examples and discussion, participants gained further insight into the importance of careful planning, appropriate case selection and recognising potential complications.

Partial Extraction Therapy (PET) and Tissue Preservation

Another important component of the masterclass was Partial Extraction Therapy (PET), focusing on techniques designed to support the preservation of surrounding bone and soft tissue structures in the aesthetic zone.

The program explored the principles and applications of several PET approaches, including:

• Socket Shield Technique: Retaining and preparing a portion of the natural tooth root during implant placement, with consideration given to preserving the surrounding tissues.

• Pontic Shield Technique: The preparation and retention of a root portion, combined with grafting and soft tissue management to support tissue preservation.

• Root Submergence Technique: The retention of a prepared root beneath the soft tissue, including considerations for vital and non-vital roots.

Participants examined the importance of CBCT assessment, precise root preparation, appropriate grafting techniques and soft tissue coverage.

The discussion also highlighted the importance of surgical accuracy, tissue management and understanding potential complications when incorporating PET techniques into clinical practice.

Soft Tissue Management and Periodontal Plastic Surgery

Soft tissue management was another key focus of the two-day program, with particular attention given to the diagnosis and treatment of gingival recession and periodontal/peri-implant defects.

Participants explored the classification of gingival recession, the influence of tissue phenotype and the clinical considerations involved in selecting appropriate surgical approaches.

The masterclass covered a range of periodontal plastic surgery techniques, including:

• Lateral sliding flap techniques

• Coronally repositioned flaps

• Connective tissue grafting (CTG)

• Palatal connective tissue graft harvesting

• Tunnelling techniques

• The use of platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) and alternative grafting approaches

Throughout these discussions, emphasis was placed on understanding the biological principles behind each technique, identifying suitable clinical applications and recognising the factors that influence treatment outcomes.

Putting Theory into Practice

A defining feature of AIM courses is the integration of theoretical learning with practical application.

Throughout the masterclass, participants had the opportunity to reinforce their understanding through hands-on training using life-like models & Pigs Heads, helping to bridge the gap between surgical theory and clinical application.

These practical components complemented the clinical discussions, allowing participants to further develop their understanding of surgical techniques, tissue handling and grafting procedures.

Combined with Dr Soukoulis' clinical experience and insights, the program encouraged participants to think critically about treatment planning, surgical decision-making and the selection of appropriate techniques for individual clinical situations.

A Focus on Predictable Aesthetic Outcomes

While the masterclass covered a broad range of clinical topics, a consistent theme was the importance of understanding the biological and surgical factors that contribute to predictable aesthetic outcomes.

From initial diagnosis and case selection through to implant positioning, tissue preservation, grafting and post-operative considerations, participants explored how each stage of treatment can influence the final result.

The course also reinforced the importance of recognising potential complications, understanding the limitations of different techniques and applying evidence-informed approaches to clinical decision-making.

By bringing these concepts together, the Aesthetic Zone Masterclass provided participants with a comprehensive perspective on managing challenging clinical cases in the aesthetic zone.

Continuing Education with the Academy for Implant Mastery

The Melbourne Aesthetic Zone Masterclass reflects AIM's ongoing commitment to delivering clinically relevant, evidence-informed education for dental professionals.

AIM would like to extend its thanks to Dr Steve Soukoulis for sharing his knowledge and experience, Southern Implants Australia for its valued sponsorship, and all participating clinicians for their involvement throughout the two-day program.

We look forward to welcoming more dental professionals to future AIM courses as we continue to support clinical education and the development of advanced implant dentistry skills.