Peri-Implant Soft Tissue Augmentation with Connective Tissue Graft Substitutes

The soft tissue around dental implants plays a crucial role in achieving successful rehabilitation outcomes related to aesthetics, peri-implant health, and bone stability. These tissues, made up of mucosa and keratinized tissue, serve different functions based on specific clinical objectives. Improving mucosal thickness enhances soft tissue volume, emergence profile, and aesthetic results. Historically, autogenous connective tissue grafts (CTGs) have been considered the gold standard for soft tissue augmentation; however, this approach has drawbacks, including patient morbidity and limited availability. Due to these issues, developing connective tissue graft substitutes (CTGSs) has gained considerable interest in the field. CTGSs may provide a predictable and minimally invasive option for increasing soft tissue volume and quality. This paper aims to outline key strategies for managing soft tissues around implants across three distinct surgical stages. It highlights the anticipated outcomes and underscores the importance of connective tissue graft substitutes in achieving these goals.