Pontic Site Development using Soft-tissue Augmentation with Connective Tissue Graft in Maxillary Anterior Region: A Case Report

Abstract

Restoring a localised alveolar ridge defect in the anterior aesthetic zone poses the greatest challenge in the field of Perio-aesthetics. Various soft-tissue augmentation techniques have been recommended for soft-tissue augmentation. The present case report shows treatment of a Siebert’s Class-III ridge defect using an interpositional connective tissue augmentation technique and restoration with an ovate pontic design to achieve an increase in soft-tissue volume and aesthetic outcome. A 58-year-old male patient was referred to the Department of Periodontics for the replacement of a missing tooth at position 11. The patient was given two treatment options: Guided Bone Regeneration (GBR) followed by the placement of an implant or Soft-tissue augmentation with Connective Tissue Graft (CTG) and restoration with a Fixed Dental Prosthesis (FDP). The patient opted for soft-tissue augmentation along with FDP, and the procedure was carried out. The results showed that this technique improved the soft-tissue quality and quantity without the use of any hard-tissue grafts. The soft-tissue augmentation mimicked the natural healthy emergence profile in a Siebert’s Class-III ridge defect. The use of subepithelial CTG gives a predictable results in FDP as a prosthetic option and is cost-effective compared to other synthetic graft materials. The technique used in the present case report is simpler, predictable and less invasive compared to the morbidity associated with the harvesting of an autogenous bone graft for augmentation.

Keywords

• aesthetics
• connective tissue grafts
• interpositional graft
• localised ridge defect