[Clinical study of free palatal connective tissue grafts for enhancement of periimplant soft tissue topography in maxillary esthetic area].

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the results and clinical characteristics of free palatal connective tissue graft in closing of immediate implant wound and reconstructing of labial soft tissue topography.

METHODS

A total of 285 cases underwent free palatal connective tissue graft transplantation in the implant treatment from June 1997 to June 2006 were included in this study. All cases were followed up for at least one year (1 to 8 years).

RESULTS

4 grafts in 3 cases had necrosis. The other 295 grafts survived well. Following Jemt classification of papilla, 127 cases reached II degree, and 18 cases reached III degree one year after prostheses. 87 cases had no concave defect of labial soft tissue.

CONCLUSION

It is effective and predictable to preserve and reconstruct periimplant soft tissue topography with palatal free connective tissue grafts in maxillary esthetic area.