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Comparison between two different techniques for peri-implant soft tissue augmentation: Porcine dermal matrix graft vs. tenting screw.

BACKGROUND
The thickness of the soft tissues around dental implants is crucial for both the preservation of the marginal bone and esthetic profile. Many authors have showed the thickened soft tissues favor a better peri-implant bone stability, however different thickening techniques can be used for this aim.


METHODS
Forty-seven patients were enrolled in this study, each of one had one implant included in this analysis. According to the thickening procedure, patients were assigned into group A (porcine dermal matrix, n = 24) or B (healing abutment used as tenting screw to sustain the soft tissues, n = 23), soft tissue thickness was measured after flap elevation in a standardized way. Six months after implant placement implants were uncovered and soft tissue thickness measured again.


RESULTS
At second stage, six months after implant placement, the mean vertical thickness was 3.01 ± 0.58 mm in group A and 2.25 ± 0.53 mm in group B. The difference between the two groups at 6 months was significant (P < 0.001). The mean vertical gain in group A was 1.33 ± 0.71 mm, while it was 0.43 ± 0.55 mm in group B. This difference was also statistically significant (P < 0.001).


CONCLUSION
The use of a healing abutment for "tenting effect" has limited efficacy to obtain a significant increase in soft tissue thickness. The use of a porcine dermal matrix at time of implant placement is effective to thicken peri-implant tissues. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.