[Papilla alteration in different gingival biotypes at single implant-supported restoration in anterior maxilla]

To observe the alteration of the interproximal papilla height after single implant restoration in the anterior maxilla and to assess the influence of gingival biotypes on papilla regeneration.

Thirty patients with single-tooth implant-supported restorations in the anterior maxilla were assigned to two groups according to labial mucosa thickness. Group A: labial mucosal thickness≥1.5 mm and group B: labial mucosal thickness<1.5 mm. The presence of interproximal papilla as well as the distance between papilla apex and contact point were assessed at crown attachment (baseline) and after 6 months (follow-up).Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS19.0 software package.

The 6-month survival rate of implants was 100%. The mean height of interproximal papilla at baseline and follow-up was (1.64±0.97) mm and (3.10±1.39) mm, respectively. A significant improvement in papilla height was found between baseline and follow-up(P<0.05). In group A, the mean distance from papilla apex to the contact point at mesial and distal aspects was (0.15±0.24) mm and (0.23±0.33) mm, respectively, and the presence of interproximal papilla were (97±5)% and (94±8)%, respectively. In group B, the mean distance from papilla apex to the contact point at mesial and distal aspects was (1.94±0.40) mm and (2.10±0.34) mm, respectively, and the presence of interproximal papilla was (53±9)% and (43±14)% respectively. Statistically significant difference was found between the two groups(P<0.05).

The interproximal papilla height around single implant restorations could improve significantly after 6-month follow-up. The interproximal papilla height around single-tooth implants in the anterior maxilla was influenced by gingival biotype. The regenerative potential of thick-gingival biotype was better than that of thin-gingival biotype.