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Published on: January 12, 2019
Volumetric Changes at Pontic Sites After Connective Tissue Grafting: A Systematic Review
Jasmina Todorovic1, Tim Joda2, Tan Fırat Eyüboğlu1,3
1Clinic of Masticatory Disorders and Dental Biomaterials, Center for Dental Medicine, University of Zurich, 8032 Zurich, Switzerland.
Journal of Clinical Medicine
|May 27, 2026
Summary
Connective tissue grafting (CTG) offers initial soft-tissue enhancement at pontic sites. However, long-term benefits appear limited, with minimal differences compared to non-grafted sites over time.
Area of Science:
- Dental Implantology
- Periodontology
- Oral Surgery
Background:
- Connective tissue grafting (CTG) is used to improve ridge contour at pontic sites.
- Long-term volumetric stability of CTG at pontic sites requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review three-dimensional (3D) volumetric and linear soft-tissue changes following CTG at pontic sites.
- To assess the long-term stability of soft-tissue augmentation using CTG.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search across multiple databases (PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane, etc.).
- Inclusion of clinical studies with at least six months follow-up assessing linear/volumetric soft-tissue outcomes.
- Independent study selection, data extraction, and risk-of-bias assessment (RoB 2, ROBINS-I).
Main Results:
- Seven studies (2 RCTs, 5 non-RCTs) were included.
- CTG showed early improvements in ridge contour and volume, with minor reductions over time.
- Long-term follow-up (up to 15 years) indicated overall stability, but evidence quality is limited.
Conclusions:
- CTG provides initial soft-tissue augmentation at pontic sites.
- Long-term advantages over non-grafted healing appear limited.
- Low certainty of evidence necessitates cautious clinical interpretation.
