The use of a connective tissue graft for closure over an immediate implant covered with occlusive membrane

Complete wound closure over an immediate implant is considered to be a desirable goal. This case report describes for the first time the use of a connective tissue autograft placed under the existing flap margins of an extraction socket to successfully achieve closure over an immediate implant covered with an occlusive membrane. The rationale of the method is described. Healing was uneventful and epithelization of the graft surface from surrounding tissues was achieved. This technique created an increased width of keratinized tissue and avoided the need to disrupt the normal anatomical relationships of the surrounding buccal tissues, in contrast to current techniques. The advantages of the technique, together with factors that may influence healing and predictability, are discussed.