Hard and soft tissue augmentation in implant surgery: a case report

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Periodontology
• Implant Dentistry

Background:

• Optimal esthetic and functional outcomes in implant-prosthesis treatment depend on meticulous hard and soft tissue management.
• Alveolar bone atrophy presents challenges for dental implant placement, necessitating bone augmentation techniques.
• Soft tissue augmentation, including increasing keratinized gingiva, is crucial for peri-implant health and esthetics.

Observation:

• A clinical case involving severe vertical bone resorption in edentulous areas was treated.
• Two vertical ridge augmentations were performed using non-resorbable, titanium-reinforced membranes in the retromandibular region.
• A deferred insertion of six implants was planned following the bone augmentation procedures.

Findings:

• The combination of vertical ridge augmentation with non-resorbable membranes and peri-implant plastic surgery techniques improved keratinized mucosa quantity.
• This combined approach resulted in harmonic tissue architecture.
• Adequate soft tissue volume and health were achieved, supporting the dental implants.

Implications:

• This case highlights the efficacy of combining bone augmentation with membranes and soft tissue grafting for severe alveolar bone resorption.
• The described surgical protocol offers a viable solution for complex implant cases requiring significant bone and soft tissue reconstruction.
• Successful management of hard and soft tissues is critical for long-term dental implant success and patient satisfaction.