Effect of connective tissue grafting on peri-implant tissue in single immediate implant sites: A RCT

AimTo assess the effect of connective tissue grafting on the mid-buccal mucosal level (MBML) of immediately placed and provisionalized single implants in the maxillofacial aesthetic zone.

Materials and methodsSixty patients with a failing tooth were provided with an immediately placed and provisionalized implant. During implant placement, patients randomly received either a connective tissue graft from the maxillary tuberosity (n=30, test group) or no graft (n=30, control group). Follow-up visits were at one (T-1) and twelve months (T-12) after final crown placement. The primary outcome measure was any change in MBML compared to the pre-operative situation. In addition, gingival biotype, aesthetics (using the Pink Esthetic Score-White Esthetic Score), marginal bone level, soft tissue peri-implant parameters and patient satisfaction were assessed.

ResultsThe mean MBML change at T-12 was -0.51.1mm in the control group and 0.1 +/- 0.8mm in the test group (p=.03). No significant differences regarding other outcome variables were observed, neither was gingival biotype associated with a gain or loss in MBML.

ConclusionsThis one-year study shows that connective tissue grafting in single, immediately placed and provisionalized implants leads to less recession of the peri-implant soft tissue at the mid-buccal aspect, irrespective of the gingival biotype (: TC3815).