Concept and Protocol Overview

Bacterial plaque accumulation induces inflammatory changes in the soft tissues surrounding oral implants and it may lead to peri-implant disease and ultimately to implant failure. Different treatment strategies for peri-implantitis have been suggested: a non-surgical approach, resective procedures or alternatively, bone regenerative procedures.

Likewise, the role of prevention is emphasized by the literature and the maintenance of healthy tissues around implants is reported as one of the key factors for the long-term success. Soft tissue management is key to obtaining excellent clinical results in surgical procedures concerning both natural teeth and dental implants. The most appropriate surgical technique selection, as well the choice of biomaterials, are key factors for predictable functional and esthetic outcomes.

The aim of this hands-on workshop is to give to the participants both theoretical and practical information to be used in the everyday clinical reality. Specific surgical techniques, such as connective tissue grafting, guided bone regeneration concepts and biomaterials application in the prevention and treatment of peri-implantitis will be described by means of clinical cases and videos. The most recent data from the literature will be the scientific background of the proposed concepts.

The hand-on session will include guided bone regeneration exercises, connective tissue graft harvesting techniques, biomaterials application in soft- and hard-tissue defects and specific surgical procedures in the treatment of peri-implantitis. The participants will be supported in the step-by-step application of the surgical techniques previously described by Dr Beretta.