Peri-implant soft tissue stability through vestibular extension procedure: a retrospective study

Area of Science:

• Periodontology
• Dental Implantology
• Oral Surgery

Background:

• Inadequate keratinized mucosa width (WKM) and vestibular depth (VD) around dental implants can compromise peri-implant soft tissue stability.
• Vestibular extension procedures are utilized to augment these soft tissue dimensions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the changes in WKM and VD following vestibular extension procedures around dental implants.
• To evaluate the correlation between WKM, VD, and peri-implant soft tissue stability, including the incidence of peri-implant soft tissue dehiscence (PSTD).

Main Methods:

• Retrospective study of 36 patients (30-50 years) with implant restorations and inadequate WKM/VD.
• Vestibular extension procedures were performed.
• Measurements of WKM, VD, and peri-implant probing depth were taken at baseline and at 3 months, 1 year, and 2 years post-procedure.

Main Results:

• Significant increases in VD were observed, from baseline averages of 1.73 mm (men) and 1.57 mm (women) to 6.93 mm and 7.95 mm respectively at 2 years.
• WKM increased to 4.14 mm (men) and 4.84 mm (women) at 2 years.
• A weak, insignificant negative correlation was found between WKM, VD, and PSTD.

Conclusions:

• Vestibular extension procedures effectively increase WKM and VD around dental implants.
• These gains in soft tissue dimensions are maintainable long-term.
• Improved peri-implant soft tissue stability facilitates oral hygiene and is associated with reduced PSTD.