Treatment strategies using implants are complex and the long-term stability of functional and aesthetic outcomes rely on healthy biological conditions. Data from clinical studies indicate that soft-tissue grafting procedures are beneficial at dental implant sites resulting in superior aesthetic and biological outcomes. Autogenous soft-tissue transplants are considered to be the gold standard in order to improve the soft-tissue quality and quantity. Patients, however, report an increased number of complications, mainly derived from the second surgical site due to the harvesting procedures.
For that purpose, soft-tissue substitutes were developed. Based on clinical studies, collagen matrices provide similar outcomes with respect to soft-tissue quality and quantity, but are associated with less morbidity and complications than
autogenous grafts, thereby offering significant benefits for patients and clinicians.
Workshop:
1. Ridge preservation using both autogenous grafts and collagen-based materials
2. Increase of soft-tissue volume applying autogenous connective tissue grafts:
• Classic flap
• Palatal island flap
3. Increase of keratinised tissue area using:
• A free gingival graft
• Collagen-based materials