WEBINAR

BIOBRIEF

The Buccal Pedicle Flap for Peri-Implant Soft Tissue Volume

Dr. Giorgio Tabanella

THE SITUATION

Patient presented with a fistula buccal on tooth #9 associated with a chronic peri-apical lesion and external root resorption. Also tooth #8 showed a chronic peri-apical lesion. Her chief complaint was the misalignment of her teeth. The clinical situation revealed the presence of bleeding upon probing and generalized moderate periodontal disease (Stage II, Grade I) as well as multiple endodontic failures.

THE RISK PROFILE

	Low Risk	Medium Risk	High Risk
Patient’s health	Intact immune system	Light smoker	Impaired immune system
Patient’s esthetic requirements	Low	Medium	High
Height of smile line	Low	Medium	High
Gingival biotype	Thick – “low scalloped”	Medium – “medium scalloped”	Thin – “high scalloped”
Shape of dental crowns	Rectangular		Triangular
Infection at implant sight	None	Chronic	Acute
Bone height at adjacent tooth site	≤ 5 mm from contact point	5.5 – 6.5 mm from contact point	≥ 7 mm from contact point
Restorative status of adjacent tooth	Intact		Restored
Width of tooth gap	1 tooth (≥ 7 mm)	1 tooth (≤ 7 mm)	2 teeth or more
Soft-tissue anatomy	Intact		Compromised
Bone anatomy of the alveolar ridge	No defect	Horizontal defect	Vertical defect

Note: request for reducing the healing time, long-term maintenance

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THE APPROACH

The aim of the treatment is to eradicate periodontal disease and restore esthetics and function. Treatment planning: non-surgical and surgical periodontal treatment, orthodontic alignment, extraction of both central incisors, immediate implant placement and Guided Bone Regeneration with Geistlich Bio-Oss®, peri-implant soft tissue boosting with a buccal pedicle flap and full ceramic CAD-CAM restorations.

The clinical picture is showing a fistula buccal to #21 as well as leakage on old composite restorations. A thin biotype is evident.

The sagittal cuts are reporting chronic peri-apical lesions on both central incisors and a thin buccal plate with minor vertical bone loss but fenestration apical to #21.

The intrasurgical picture is showing the bony defect, the buccal fenestration and the thin buccal plate.

After allowing the tissue to heal for 4 months a first “Buccal Pedicle Flap” was performed during the uncovery of the dental implant. Simultaneously, Geistlich Fibro-Gide® was inserted into the envelope created by the flap design.

Geistlich Fibro-Gide® is reduced to a thickness of 4 mm at its borders so that it is easier to get adapted to the recipient site.

The Fibro-Gide® is trimmed so that its borders don’t approach the vertical incisions of the Buccal Pedicle Flap.

Polypropylene 6.0 sutures are used to compressed the Fibro-Gide® underneath the flap thus creating the “wrinkles” on the mucosa.

The wrinkles are visible also on the occlusal view. The mucogingival line is repositioned at its original level.

Four months after immediate implant placement and GBR in area #11 a second Buccal Pedicle Flap is performed to reduce the buccal concavity, boost the peri-implant mucosa and increase the thickness as well as the band of the keratinezed mucosa.

As in the previous surgery the Fibro-Gide® is inserted underneath the Buccal Pedicle Flap and stabilized with e-PTFE 6.0 sutures.

8 weeks post surgery, the occlusal view is showing a biomimetic countouring of the peri-implant mucosa.

The final esthetic result is emphasizing an excellent blending of “white” and “pink” esthetics.

“Orthodontic treatment must be postponed because of the presence of periodontal disease. A thin biotype and a high smile line needs to be taken into consideration.”

THE OUTCOME

The final outcome at 8 weeks is showing pink esthetics as well as biomimetics and function. The use of the buccal pedicle flap allowed the increased volume of the peri-implant mucosa with a minimally invasive approach. The combination of Geistlich Fibro-Gide® and a buccal pedicle flap had the main advantage of reducing the morbidity generally associated with CT harvesting.

Dr. Giorgio Tabanella

Dr. Tabanella is a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology, an Active Member of the Italian Academy of Esthetic Dentistry and author of the book “Retreatment of Failures in Dental Medicine”. He graduated from the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, USA where he obtained his Certificate in Periodontics as well as a Master of Science in Craniofacial Biology. He is Director of O.R.E.C. – Oral Reconstruction and Education Center (www.tabanellaorec.com), reviewer and author of original articles.

BIOBRIEF

Use of Geistlich Fibro-Gide® for Correction of Maxillary Anterior Soft Tissue Peri-implant Ridge Deficiencies

Dr. Israel Puterman

THE SITUATION

A 27-year-old female with congenitally missing maxillary lateral incisors was referred for implant placement. Following completion of orthodontics, a plan was developed to place dental implants at the #7 and #10 positions. Based on CBCT evaluation, alveolar ridge height and width was deemed sufficient for implant placement. Despite sufficient bone volume, facial ridge volume deficiencies were noted at both edentulous sites, requiring augmentation to allow for optimal esthetics.

THE RISK PROFILE

	Low Risk	Medium Risk	High Risk
Patient’s health	Intact immune system	Light smoker	Impaired immune system
Patient’s esthetic requirements	Low	Medium	High
Height of smile line	Low	Medium	High
Gingival biotype	Thick – “low scalloped”	Medium – “medium scalloped”	Thin – “high scalloped”
Shape of dental crowns	Rectangular		Triangular
Infection at implant sight	None	Chronic	Acute
Bone height at adjacent tooth site	≤ 5 mm from contact point	5.5 – 6.5 mm from contact point	≥ 7 mm from contact point
Restorative status of adjacent tooth	Intact		Restored
Width of tooth gap	1 tooth (≥ 7 mm)	1 tooth (≤ 7 mm)	2 teeth or more
Soft-tissue anatomy	Intact		Compromised
Bone anatomy of the alveolar ridge	No defect	Horizontal defect	Vertical defect

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THE APPROACH

The goal of treatment was to replace missing maxillary lateral incisors with dental implants, while providing an esthetic result with predictable and minimally invasive techniques. Employing a surgical guide for implant placement, implants were placed in precise 3-dimentional positions. The use of xenograft biomaterials (Geistlich Fibro-Gide®) allowed for the augmentation of gingival biotype and elimination of the buccal ridge deficiencies while avoiding the harvesting of autogenous tissue.

Pre-surgical, occlusal view, demonstrating buccal ridge concavities at edentulous sites, #7 and #10.

Geistlich Fibro-Gide® collagen matrix is cut and shaped prior to placement into surgical sites.

Immediate post-surgical occlusal view following placement of implants and Geistlich Fibro-Gide® on facial aspects. Implant #7 was provisionalized immediately, however implant #10 did not achieve sufficient stability and a healing abutment was placed.

Immediate post-surgical facial view. One can note the buccal prominences being developed by the presence of Geistlich Fibro-Gide®.

2-month post-surgical view, following provisionalization of implant #10. Buccal convexities at the implant sites are still evident.

8 month view of implant sites at time of torque test, following maturation of gingival emergence. Of note is thick, convex buccal tissue free of any sign of inflammation.

Occlusal view following final restoration, (Dr. Paul Krainson). Natural-appearing buccal gingival convexities remain 1.5 years post-surgery.

Frontal view of final restoration of implants. The tissue health with stippling and root-like gingival prominences are noted.

“A buccal ridge deficiency with congenitally missing lateral incisors in a high-scallop, high-smile young female patient.”

THE OUTCOME

The presented case involves a female patient with congenitally missing maxillary lateral incisors and soft tissue ridge deficiencies. Implants were placed and a volume-stable collagen matrix Geistlich Fibro-Gide® was placed to provide labial soft tissue volume. The tissue emergence was then developed with the use of provisional restorations, one placed at the time of surgery, the other following implant integration. The implants were restored with gingival tissue transformed to mimic convex root emergence.

Correction of labial soft tissue ridge deficiencies at implant sites through use of a Geistlich Fibro-Gide® volume stable, collagen matrix.”
Dr. Israel Puterman

A volume-stable collagen matrix can be used to correct a labial soft tissue deficiency, eliminating the potential negative sequelae of an autogenous connective tissue graft.”
Dr. Israel Puterman

Various materials can be used to restore a soft tissue deficiency; use of a volume-stable collagen matrix provides numerous advantages when used in the proper indication.”
Dr. Israel Puterman

Dr. Israel Puterman

Dr. Puterman, originally from Montreal Canada, received his DMD from Boston University in 2002 and dual graduate certificates in Implant Dentistry and in Periodontics from Loma Linda University in 2008. He is a published author in various journals including the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry and the Journal of Prosthodontics. He practices in the Washington, DC area.

BIOBRIEF

Phenotype Conversion Using Geistlich Fibro-Gide® for Immediate Implants in the Esthetic Zone

Dr. Robert A. Levine

THE SITUATION

A healthy non-smoking 50-year-old female patient who desires a single tooth solution to replace a non-restorable tooth, #12. A root fracture at the level of the palatal post was diagnosed in a root canaled tooth. Maintaining esthetics of the adjacent teeth is important as they are also restored with single full coverage porcelain crowns. Lastly, treatment time reduction and a minimally invasive surgical technique are desired by the patient for reduced downtime and post-operative morbidity.

THE RISK PROFILE

	Low Risk	Medium Risk	High Risk
Patient’s health	Intact immune system	Light smoker	Impaired immune system
Patient’s esthetic requirements	Low	Medium	High
Height of smile line	Low	Medium	High
Gingival biotype	Thick – “low scalloped”	Medium – “medium scalloped”	Thin – “high scalloped”
Shape of dental crowns	Rectangular		Triangular
Infection at implant sight	None	Chronic	Acute
Bone height at adjacent tooth site	≤ 5 mm from contact point	5.5 – 6.5 mm from contact point	≥ 7 mm from contact point
Restorative status of adjacent tooth	Intact		Restored
Width of tooth gap	1 tooth (≥ 7 mm)	1 tooth (≤ 7 mm)	2 teeth or more
Soft-tissue anatomy	Intact		Compromised
Bone anatomy of the alveolar ridge	No defect	Horizontal defect	Vertical defect

Patients Esthetic Expectations: Realistic
Facial Bone Wall Phenotype: High Risk (<1mm)
Esthetic Risk Profile (ERP) = Medium (summary of above)

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THE APPROACH

A minimally invasive surgical removal of tooth #12 with maintenance of the buccal plate and leaving a 3mm buccal gap. The implant will be placed one mm below the level of the intact buccal plate with an anatomically correct surgical guide template to provide for a screw-retained solution. The gap will be filled with Geistlich Bio-Oss Collagen® to maintain the bone buccal to the implant, and a palate free approach utilizing Geistlich Fibro-Gide® for soft tissue thickening to accomplish “phenotype conversion.” The long-term surgical goal is >2-3mm thickness of both hard and soft tissue buccal to the implant.

Pre-operative assessment demonstrates minimal zone and thickness of buccal keratinized gingiva, with a medium periodontal phenotype.

Pre-operative CBCT with virtually planned implant placement. A thin buccal plate (<1mm) is measured. Good apical bone is noted for the placement of a Straumann® 12mmx4.1mm bone level tapered implant.

Minimally invasive removal of #12 using only a buccal approach mini-flap showing an intact buccal plate with immediate placement of the implant (1 mm below the intact buccal wall) in a screw-retained position. A 3mm buccal gap is measured and a 1.5mm palatal gap.

Both the buccal and palatal gaps have been packed with Geistlich Bio-Oss Collagen® hydrated with Gem 21S. It’s my preference to squeeze Geistlich Fbro-Gide® between thumb and forefinger, prior to placement. A dry-carved piece of Geistlich Fibro-Gide® is in position thinned approximately 2mm with beveling laterally and coronally with a new #15 blade.

Geistlich Fibro-Gide® in place facial to the intact buccal wall under a full thickness buccal approach mini-flap. Immediate contour management was completed using an Anatotemp® for a maxillary bicuspid tooth.

Suturing completed using 4-0PTFE and 5 -0 polypropylene non-resorbable sutures. Anticipated short-term 25% post-operative swelling is discussed with the patient.

3 months post-operative appointment showing a well-developed subgingival transition zone created with immediate contour management. A reverse torque test was completed, and the case proceeded to completion.

9 month post-operative view with final screw-retained crown in place. Good interproximal papilla healing is noted with thickening of the buccal periodontal phenotype compared with Fig. #1. (Restorative Therapy: Drew Shulman DMD, MAGD; Philadelphia, PA)

“High esthetic demands were the primary concern with this case. They were addressed with the diagnostic tools of clinical photos, a site specific CBCT to evaluate the buccal wall status, and summing the findings with patient expectations gathered using the Esthetic Risk Assessment (knee-to-knee; eye-to-eye) which is used along with our consent agreement to treatment.”

THE OUTCOME

Minimally invasive surgery for buccal wall maintenance, virtually planning the buccal gap and implant width, using a xenograft in the buccal gap with phenotype conversion using a volume stable collagen matrix in conjuction with immediate contour management, allows for the best chance for papillae fill interproximally and maintenance of the mid-buccal gingival margin long-term.

Virtual planning the implant width for a screw-retained prosthesis based on an intact buccal wall after extraction to allow for a buccal gap of >2mm to be grafted are important keys for esthetic success.”
Dr. Robert A. Levine

The importance of the ‘one-two punch’ of ROUTINE phenotype-conversion using Geistlich Fibro-Gide® in conjunction with bone grafting the >2mm buccal gap with Geistlich Bio-Oss Collagen® provides excellent buccal convex tissue maintenance long-term.”
Dr. Robert A. Levine

Dr. Robert A. Levine

Robert A. Levine DDS is a board-certified periodontist at the Pennsylvania Center for Dental Implants and Periodontics in Philadelphia. He is a Fellow of the International Team for Dental Implantology (ITI), College of Physicians in Philadelphia, International Society of Periodontal Plastic Surgeons and the Academy of Osseointegration. He has post-graduate periodontology and implantology teaching appointments at Temple University in Philadelphia, UNC in Chapel Hill and UIC in Chicago and has over 80 scientific publications.

BIOBRIEF

Soft-Tissue Augmentation in the Esthetic Zone

Prof. Dr. Daniel S. Thoma

THE SITUATION

A young male patient was referred to the clinic with a missing central incisor, #9 following trauma. An implant was placed and the patient was referred for an implant-born reconstruction. The patient does not smoke and drinks occasionally. Upon a clinical examination, extensive horizontal and vertical contour deficiencies are present prior to abutment connection.

THE RISK PROFILE

	Low Risk	Medium Risk	High Risk
Patient’s health	Intact immune system	Light smoker	Impaired immune system
Patient’s esthetic requirements	Low	Medium	High
Height of smile line	Low	Medium	High
Gingival biotype	Thick – “low scalloped”	Medium – “medium scalloped”	Thin – “high scalloped”
Shape of dental crowns	Rectangular		Triangular
Infection at implant sight	None	Chronic	Acute
Bone height at adjacent tooth site	≤ 5 mm from contact point	5.5 – 6.5 mm from contact point	≥ 7 mm from contact point
Restorative status of adjacent tooth	Intact		Restored
Width of tooth gap	1 tooth (≥ 7 mm)	1 tooth (≤ 7 mm)	2 teeth or more
Soft-tissue anatomy	Intact		Compromised
Bone anatomy of the alveolar ridge	No defect	Horizontal defect	Vertical defect

Note: The fractured tooth has a periapical lesion together with a severe bone defect around the horizontal fracture.

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THE APPROACH

The compromized situation with a horizontal and vertical hard and soft-tissue deficit required a soft-tissue volume grafting procedure. A buccal split-thickness flap was prepared and Geistlich Fibro-Gide® shaped and placed. Primary wound closure was obtained. Abutment connection was performed after 8 weeks and the emergence profile created with a provisional reconstruction. The final reconstruction was placed at 3 months.

A young male patient was referred to the clinic with a missing central incisor, #9 following trauma.

Preparation of a split-thickness flap (buccal pouch).

Due to releasing incisions within the periosteum, the tissues can be advanced more coronally.

The dimension and shape of Geistlich Fibro-Gide® with a maximal thickness (5mm) at the transition between the buccal and occlusal aspect.

Geistlich Fibro-Gide® inserted and immobilized with a horizontal cross-suture to the palatal flap.

A provisional reconstruction is inserted; blanching of the tissues can be observed.

Final emergence profile established with a provisional reconstruction.

8 weeks healing: Abutment connection is performed

The clinical situation at 1-year follow-up.

“The patient presented with severe horizontal and vertical hard and soft-tissue defects. I needed a solution that could increase the soft-tissue anatomy around the implant and prosthesis.”

THE OUTCOME

The outcome of the case was very pleasing having fulfilled the patient’s expectations in terms of esthetics and function. The tissues are healthy and volume was obtained through the grafting procedure to match the contour of the neighboring natural tooth.

Soft-tissue augmentation using Geistlich Fibro-Gide® results in a predictable volume gain and reduces surgery time, as well as patient discomfort.”
Dr. Daniel S. Thoma

Prof. Dr. Daniel S. Thoma

Prof. Dr. Daniel Thoma is the head of Reconstructive dentistry and Vice-chairman at the Clinic for Fixed and Removable Prosthodontics and Dental Material Sciences, University of Zurich, Switzerland. He graduated in 2000 at the University of Basel, Switzerland and was trained in implant dentistry and prosthodontics at the clinic for Fixed and Removable Prosthodontics and dental Material Sciences, University of Zurich, Switzerland.

BIOBRIEF

Root Coverage for Multiple Adjacent Teeth in the Maxilla with Geistlich Fibro-Gide® 1.5-Year Follow-Up

Dr. Vinay Bhide

THE SITUATION

The patient is a healthy, 60-year-old female who presented to our clinic with a chief complaint of progressive gum recession which had led to compromised esthetics and sensitivity involving the maxillary left lateral incisor (#10), canine (#11), and first bicuspid (#12) teeth. The teeth in question had 3-4 mm of gingival recession on the buccal surface with a sufficient zone of keratinized gingiva. These teeth also had obvious cervical abrasion.

THE RISK PROFILE

	Low Risk	Medium Risk	High Risk
Patient’s health	Intact immune system	Light smoker	Impaired immune system
Patient’s esthetic requirements	Low	Medium	High
Height of smile line	Low	Medium	High
Gingival biotype	Thick – “low scalloped”	Medium – “medium scalloped”	Thin – “high scalloped”
Shape of dental crowns	Rectangular		Triangular
Infection at implant sight	None	Chronic	Acute
Bone height at adjacent tooth site	≤ 5 mm from contact point	5.5 – 6.5 mm from contact point	≥ 7 mm from contact point
Restorative status of adjacent tooth	Intact		Restored
Width of tooth gap	1 tooth (≥ 7 mm)	1 tooth (≤ 7 mm)	2 teeth or more
Soft-tissue anatomy	Intact		Compromised
Bone anatomy of the alveolar ridge	No defect	Horizontal defect	Vertical defect

Classification of recession – RT1 i.e. intact interdental bone and soft tissues
Severity of recession – mild to moderate
Amount of keratinized gingiva – 2 mm or greater for all teeth involved

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THE APPROACH

Treatment goals for this case were to obtain complete root coverage, increase soft tissue thickness, and reduce/eliminate cervical sensitivity. A split-thickness envelope flap approach was used. Geistlich Fibro-Gide® was then trimmed, hydrated with saline, and placed over the exposed root surfaces. The flap was coronally advanced in a tension-free manner to completely cover the biomaterial and exposed root surfaces.

Pre-operative condition: Note that the gingival recession of 3-4 mm is evident as is the cervical root abrasions. The interdental papillae completely fills the embrasure space.

Incision design showing the sulcular incisions with horizontal incisions across the interdental regions ending with a remote oblique vertical releasing incision distal to the first bicuspid tooth.

The interdental papillae were de-epithelialized and Geistlich Fibro-Gide®was placed over the exposed roots extending onto the bone. Geistlich Fibro-Gide® was not secured with sutures.

Internal periosteal releasing incision was made to allow tension-free coronal advancement of the buccal flap to completely cover Geistlich Fibro-Gide®.The flap was secured with 5-0 Monocryl® sutures.

1-week post-operative visit: the healing looks good and sutures are intact. There was a small soft-tissue dehiscence at the buccal margin of the canine tooth.

Healing progressed well at 2 months post-operatively and the dehiscence defect seen at 1 week appears to be healing. Soft-tissue thickness is also evident at this stage.

At 6 months, 100% root coverage has been achieved. Note the increase in keratinized gingiva at the canine tooth where there was previously delayed healing. The patient is happy with the esthetic and functional outcome.

At 1 year, we can see root coverage has been sustained. Complete root coverage is not seen for the upper left bicuspid, not surprising given the tooth had an older restoration which was removed prior to grafting and the CEJ on the proximal surface is visible. Partial coverage was achieved however and is much more pleasing to the patient.

At 1.5 years, the tissue looks stable, healthy and esthetic. The patient is very happy with results thus far both from esthetic and functional standpoints. She is still free of sensitivity.

“The patient’s main priorities were to improve esthetics and reduce/eliminate root sensitivity. Soft tissue grafting was done with autologous connective tissue in other areas of her mouth many years ago and she was hesitant to undergo surgery again if it involved harvesting tissue from her palate due to the post-operative pain she experienced after these previous procedures.”

THE OUTCOME

This case nicely shows that the result following root coverage surgery to treat multiple adjacent teeth using a volume-stable collagen matrix is comparable to that seen with autologous connective tissue. At 1.5 years, there is continued stability of the treated site. The tissue appears healthy and firm. The patient‘s chief complaints of esthetics and sensitivity have been addressed and the patient is maintaining excellent oral hygiene and home care.

Multiple recessions on adjacent teeth in the maxilla can be treated successfully with a volume-stable collagen matrix and coronally-advanced flap.”
Dr. Vinay Bhide

The most important material for this case is the use of a volume-stable collagen matrix used in place of autologous connective tissue. Using this material has significantly decreased patient morbidity.”
Dr. Vinay Bhide

Dr. Vinay Bhide

Dr. Vinay Bhide is a board certified Periodontist with a special interest in periodontal plastics and reconstructive surgical procedures. Dr. Bhide did his dental and specialty training at the university of Toronto. In addition to private practice, Dr. Bhide is a clinical instructor in the Department of Periodontics at the university of Toronto. He is also a staff periodontist in the Center for Advanced Dental Care and Research at Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto.

BIOBRIEF

Prosthetically Guided Regeneration (PGR) in the Posterior Maxilla

Paolo Casentini, DDS

THE SITUATION

The 60-year-old female patient’s chief complaint was represented by unsatisfactory esthetics and function, related to loss of multiple maxillary teeth. Her request focused on improving esthetics and function by means of a fixed reconstruction.

The patient presented five residual anterior maxillary teeth (from 6 to 10) that could be maintained. After preliminary periodontal diagnosis and treatment, specific diagnostic steps for implant treatment demonstrated inadequate bone volume for implant placement.

THE RISK PROFILE

	Low Risk	Medium Risk	High Risk
Patient’s health	Intact immune system Non-smoker	Light smoker	Impaired immune system
Patient’s esthetic requirements	Low	Medium	High
Height of smile line	Low	Medium	High
Gingival biotype	Thick – “low scalloped”	Medium – “medium scalloped”	Thin – “high scalloped”
Shape of dental crowns	Rectangular		Triangular
Infection at implant sight	None	Chronic	Acute
Bone height at adjacent tooth site	≤ 5 mm from contact point	5.5 – 6.5 mm from contact point	≥ 7 mm from contact point
Restorative status of adjacent tooth	Intact		Restored
Width of tooth gap	1 tooth (≥ 7 mm)	1 tooth (≤ 7 mm)	2 teeth or more
Soft-tissue anatomy	Intact		Compromised
Bone anatomy of the alveolar ridge	No defect	Horizontal defect	Vertical defect

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THE APPROACH

Bi-lateral sinus lift with Geistlich Bio-Oss Pen® and horizontal bone augmentation with a 1:1 mix of autogenous bone and Geistlich Bio-Oss® were performed six months prior to implant placement, following a Prosthetically Guided Regenerative (PGR) approach. The augmented sites were protected with Geistlich Bio-Gide® stabilized with titanium pins. The template utilized for radiographic diagnosis and GBR was then used to guide the implants’ placement.

Baseline full-mouth intra-oral view: the residual maxillary teeth were preliminarily reconstructed with a composite mock-up. The horizontal atrophy of the posterior areas of the maxilla is clearly visible.

The cone beam, realized with a radio-opaque diagnostic template, shows inadequate bone volume for implant placement in all the analyzed sites.

The use of the diagnostic template during the augmentation procedure helps to highlight the presence of bone defects in relationship to the restorative plan and future position of implants.

Large Geistlich Bio-Oss® particles are directly applied inside the sinus with Geistlich Bio-Oss Pen®.

The Geistlich Bio-Gide®, fixed with titanium pins is used to protect and stabilize the augmented site. As the surgical template shows, the bone augmentation is based on the future restorative project following the principle of PGR.

The same surgical procedure is performed on the left posterior side of the maxilla.

Cone-beam 6 months after surgery and prior to implant placement. The relationship between the template used for diagnosis and the bone crest reveals adequate bone volume to place implants in the correct prosthetically driven position.

Implant placement was guided by the same template utilized for diagnosis and bone augmentation.

Final view of the prosthetic reconstruction demonstrates bio-mimetic integration of implant-supported prostheses and ceramic veneers bonded to residual natural teeth.

The panoramic radiograph shows adequate integration of the implants and absence of peri-implant bone resorption.

Using a diagnostic template during the GBR procedure helps to highlight the presence of bone defects in relationship to the restorative plan and future position of implants.

THE OUTCOME

After a healing period of six months, adequate bone volume was achieved for the placement of five implants. Geistlich Fibro-Gide® was also used to optimize soft tissue volume at the buccal aspect of implants.

Implants were early loaded with a temporary screw-retained fixed prostheses six weeks after placement. The final prosthetic reconstruction included ceramic veneers of the frontal residual teeth and zirconium-ceramic screw-retained fixed prostheses on implants.

Patient satisfaction is my driver for excellence. That’s why I always apply the Prosthetically Guided Regeneration principle together with Geistlich Biomaterials: proven and predictable long-term patient success.”
Paolo Casentini, DDS

Paolo Casentini, DDS

Graduated in Dentistry at the University of Milan, Fellow and Past Chairman of the Italian section of ITI, Active member Italian Academy of Osseointegration. Co-author of 10 textbooks including ITI Treatment Guide volume 4, translated in eight languages, and “Pink Esthetic and Soft Tissues in Implant Dentistry” translated in five languages. His field of interest is advanced implantology in complex and esthetically demanding cases. He has extensively lectured in more than 40 countries.

BIOBRIEF

Avoiding Post-Implant Placement and Long Term Crestal Bone Resorption by Thickening Vertical Soft Tissue

Tamir Wardany, D.D.S.

THE SITUATION

Our patient is a 60-year-old caucasian male that had just finished a large ridge augmentation in the area of #4 and #5. We used the sausage technique for the ridge augmentation and yielded excellent bone volume in this area. However, as we began the 2nd stage implant placement procedure, we noticed, as is frequently seen following a large ridge augmentation, very thin vertical soft tissue over the crest of the bone. We know that inadequate soft tissue thickness will lead to compromised vasculature and transfer of oxygen and nutrients to the bone which can absolutely lead to a loss of crestal bone surrounding the implants.

THE RISK PROFILE

	Low Risk	Medium Risk	High Risk
Patient’s health	Intact immune system	Light smoker	Impaired immune system
Patient’s esthetic requirements	Low	Medium	High
Height of smile line	Low	Medium	High
Gingival biotype	Thick – “low scalloped”	Medium – “medium scalloped”	Thin – “high scalloped”
Shape of dental crowns	Rectangular		Triangular
Infection at implant sight	None	Chronic	Acute
Bone height at adjacent tooth site	≤ 5 mm from contact point	5.5 – 6.5 mm from contact point	≥ 7 mm from contact point
Restorative status of adjacent tooth	Intact		Restored
Width of tooth gap	1 tooth (≥ 7 mm)	1 tooth (≤ 7 mm)	2 teeth or more
Soft-tissue anatomy	Intact		Compromised
Bone anatomy of the alveolar ridge	No defect	Horizontal defect	Vertical defect

Note: Bone was augmented prior to this case report due to a severe horizontal defect.

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THE APPROACH

Our goal here is to create increased vertical soft tissue thickness over the crest of the implant site. Following implant placement and placement of the cover screws, we used Geistlich Fibro-Gide^® over the implants and then layed it over the crest and buccal aspect. Following the placement of Geistlich Fibro-Gide^®, we gently released the full thickness flap so that we can achieve tension-free primary closure over the site.

6 months following horizontal ridge augmentation, using Dr. Urban’s sausage technique, we re-entered the site for implant placement using a full thickness flap with no vertical incisions, to not disrupt collateral blood supply. There is excellent bone volume, but a very thin vertical soft tissue volume over the crest of the implant site.

Straumann implants are placed in sites #4 and #5 to a 25Ncm torque value with no issues and the cover screws were placed.

Geistlich Fibro-Gide® is placed crestally over the implants and draped to the buccal and slightly towards the lingual. Geistlich Fibro-Gide® was trimmed slightly to minimize the thickness of the material.

The flap was released so that we can achieve tension-free primary closure over the implant and the Geistlich Fibro-Gide® soft tissue augmentation site.

Following an 8 week healing period, we make a crestal incision and lay a conservative full-thickness flap to uncover the implants. We observe a 3-4 mm increase in verticle soft tissue thickness over the implant site.

We allow 3 weeks following the initial uncovering and can now see beautiful soft tissue architecture surrounding the implants.

Prior to the restorative process we see the pre-restorative radiograph with the healing abutments in place and we can also observe excellent crestal bone levels around the implants.

1 year follow-up. The restorative dentist opted to splint the crowns together. The patient did not want implants posterior to this area and he did not want any sinus augmentation as he had a history of sinus issues.

The use of Geistlich Fibro-Gide^® is a wonderful alternative to using a connective tissue graft to thicken vertical soft tissue, which will help minimize crestal bone loss around implants.

THE OUTCOME

The soft tissue that will now surround the implant site is thick and healthy due to the use of Geistlich Fibro-Gide^® at the time of implant placement. This is a simple technique and only requires a minimal amount of flap release to achieve tension-free primary closure over the site. The results are phenomenal and will be beneficial for the stability of the crestal bone surrounding the implants for years to come.

Thin vertical soft tissue over the implant site following ridge augmentation is one of the key factors which may lead to crestal bone loss around the implants that will be placed.
Tamir Wardany, D.D.S.

I find the Mini-Me Periosteal to be my most versatile instrument for all my hard and soft tissue cases. I always have this instrument out on my surgical tray.
Tamir Wardany, D.D.S.

Beginning with thin soft tissue, we were able to achieve very thick and healthy vertical soft tissue over the implants, which will improve blood flow to the bone and minimize crestal bone loss in future.
Tamir Wardany, D.D.S.

Tamir Wardany, D.D.S.

Dr. Wardany is a graduate of Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry in Nashville, TN. After completion of a dental implant fellowship through State University of New York Stonybrook, he continues to spend extensive time in Europe training under Dr. Istvan Urban in the field of advanced bone and soft tissue regeneration.

He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Implantology, and lectures extensively on the topic of bone regeneration. He maintains a referral based surgical implant practice in San Francisco and Sacramento, California.

BIOBRIEF

A Regenerative Approach to Peri-implantitis

Hector L. Sarmiento, D.M.D., MSc.

THE SITUATION

A 55-year-old man was referred to me by his general dentist. Upon initial clinical and radiographic findings, failing implant #9 showed signs of peri-implantitis that included BoP, Suppuration, 9+mm PD and radiographic bone loss affecting both the implant and the natural adjacent tooth. Patient stated that although his gums bleed, he does not have any pain. Gingival erythema was also found.

THE RISK PROFILE

	Low Risk	Medium Risk	High Risk
Patient’s health	Intact immune system	Light smoker	Impaired immune system
Patient’s esthetic requirements	Low	Medium	High
Height of smile line	Low	Medium	High
Gingival biotype	Thick – “low scalloped”	Medium – “medium scalloped”	Thin – “high scalloped”
Shape of dental crowns	Rectangular		Triangular
Infection at implant sight	None	Chronic	Acute
Bone height at adjacent tooth site	≤ 5 mm from contact point	5.5 – 6.5 mm from contact point	≥ 7 mm from contact point
Restorative status of adjacent tooth	Intact		Restored
Width of tooth gap	1 tooth (≥ 7 mm)	1 tooth (≤ 7 mm)	2 teeth or more
Soft-tissue anatomy	Intact		Compromised
Bone anatomy of the alveolar ridge	No defect	Horizontal defect	Vertical defect

Note: Peri-implantitis on implant #9 migrating to the mesial portion of root #8

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THE APPROACH

The clinical goals were to eliminate the peri-implant infection, restore hard and soft-tissues and have long-term success. The technique utilized was a systematic regenerative approach to eliminate the underlying cause of the peri-implantitis infection and restore hard and soft-tissues to prior health.

Initial situation, patient presented with radiographic and clinically traditional signs of peri-implantitis, including bleeding on probing, suppuration, radiographic progressive bone loss and clinical pathologic probing depths.

Mechanical debridement was achieved using titanium scalers, an ultrasonic device with an implant protective cap and titanium brushes to remove all of the visible contaminants of the implant surface. Citric acid was then placed on shreds of a non-woven gauze and applied to the surface for approx. 1min. Copious irrigation was done using saline solution and the surface was ablated using the Er:YAG laser at 20pps/50mj.

After the surface was prepped and no signs of residual granulation tissue was noted, the defect was grafted with Geistlich Bio-Oss®. Attention was given towards not augmenting beyond the bony envelope.

A protective Geistlich Bio-Gide® membrane was placed over Geistlich Bio-Oss®.

Geistlich Fibro-Gide® was placed over Geistlich Bio-Gide® to enhance soft-tissue volume and quality. Geistlich Fibro-Gide® was trimmed and adapted to the defect site ensuring a tension free closure.

Geistlich Fibro-Gide® was place on the top of the bone graft to enhance soft-tissue thickness. Geistlich Fibro-Gide® is porous. We can observe the rapid penetration of blood through the matrix.

Closure with a tension-free flap was achieved by releasing incisions and secured using 4-0 chromic gut sutures.

1.5 year post-operative photo and radiograph show the healing of the soft-tissues with no signs of peri-implantitis and adequate tissue thickening. Radiographic bone levels have maintained stable over the course of the year.

Geistlich Fibro-Gide^® has the capacity to enhance the soft-tissue during a bone regenerative approach.

THE OUTCOME

My observation at the 1.5 year follow-up shows the elimination of peri-implantitis and complete peri-implant health was achieved showing a reduction in BOP, PD and most importantly soft tissue thickness stability. Radiographically, crestal bone shows no signs of progressive pathological loss and has maintained adequate volume.

Geistlich Fibro-Gide^® was utilized to enhance the soft-tissues during a regenerative peri-implantitis approach. In my opinion, healthy, thick soft-tissue is easier for a patient to maintain and creates a better environment for long-term survival.
Hector L. Sarmiento, D.M.D., MSc.

Hector L. Sarmiento, D.M.D., MSc.

Dr. Hector Sarmiento was awarded his D.M.D. degree by the University of Rochester. He is uniquely trained in both maxillofacial surgery and periodontics. He is a professor in the maxillofacial surgery department of trauma and reconstructive unit at the Regional Hospital in Mexico and is an Assistant Clinical Professor in periodontics at the University of Pennsylvania. Along with his periodontal degree, he also received his masters in oral biology from the University of Pennsylvania. Dr. Sarmiento is an international and national lecturer and has published numerous articles in peer reviewed journals and textbooks. His research focus includes infected dental implants such as peri-implantitis, sinus complications as well as bone biology. Dr. Sarmiento maintains his private practice in the upper east side of Manhattan in NYC.