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Peri-implant soft tissue grafting
When the gum around an implant is thin or receding, the soft tissue volume can be augmented. The technique and timing depend on the condition of the implant and aesthetic needs.
Thin or receded gum around an implant is rebuilt in volume, thickness and contour. Thicker gum is easier to clean and better withstands mechanical irritation.
Key facts
- When it is needed
- The gum is thin, has receded, or the grey shade of the implant shows through
- Techniques
- Connective tissue graft, free gingival graft, collagen matrix
- Duration
- Usually 45–60 minutes under local anaesthesia
- Stitches
- Removed after 10–14 days
- Result
- Develops over several months as the tissue matures
QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
Your questions, answered.
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Grafting is recommended when the gum around the implant is thin or the band of firm gum is very narrow, when the gum has receded and the implant neck or abutment shows, when a grey shade shows through the gum on front teeth, and when the gum line does not match the neighbouring teeth. It is also discussed when cleaning causes pain and bleeding.
In a connective tissue graft, a thin piece of tissue taken from the palate is placed around the implant to thicken the gum; it is the most common method in the visible front area. A free gingival graft is used when the band of firm gum is small, and the tissue is again taken from the palate. In suitable cases volume can be added with collagen matrices without taking tissue from the palate.
The technique and timing are chosen individually. Grafting can be done in the same session as implant placement, when the implant is uncovered (abutment placement), or as a separate procedure around an implant that already has its crown. Sometimes it is planned to correct a problem, and sometimes as a preventive step before the implant or the prosthesis.
It is done under local anaesthesia and usually takes 45–60 minutes. The donor area on the palate is protected with a protective plate or stitches. Stitches are removed after 10–14 days. The final result develops over several months as the tissue matures, so it is assessed at follow-up visits.
The donor site on the palate usually bothers patients more than the implant area and can stay sensitive for 1–2 weeks. A protective plate makes this period easier. Collagen matrices avoid the need for a palate donor site, but the gain in thickness is usually smaller than with a graft from your own tissue. The choice is discussed with you at the examination.
In the first days swelling, mild discomfort in the palate and sensitivity to heat are possible. Do not brush the surgical area; clean it with the antiseptic solution your dentist recommends, avoid hot and hard food, and do not smoke. At follow-up visits the dentist checks that the tissue has taken and confirms the timing of the prosthetic stage.
STEP BY STEP
From first visit to a new smile.
Knowing what comes next helps you feel more at ease.
STEP 01 / 04
Meet and examine
At your first visit, we discuss your health, expectations and questions. An examination and, when needed, 3D imaging help us assess your starting point.
We listen
We listen to your wishes and assess your oral health.
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YOUR FIRST STEP
Let’s talk about your smile.
Ask your questions and let’s plan a convenient appointment together.