Effect of connective tissue grafting on soft tissue stability and peri-implant aesthetic outcomes: an integrative review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.62331/2965-758X.v4.2026.89Keywords:
Dental implant, Tissue transplantation, Autologous transplantation, Oral mucosa, Dental aestheticsAbstract
The aesthetic and functional success of dental implant rehabilitations relies heavily on peri-implant soft tissue stability. Connective tissue grafting has been widely used to increase the thickness of these tissues and enhance the predictability of clinical outcomes. This review aimed to evaluate the scientific evidence concerning the impact of connective tissue grafting on soft tissue stability and peri-implant aesthetic outcomes. This integrative literature review was conducted using the PubMed/MEDLINE, LILACS, and Cochrane Library databases. Randomized clinical trials, multicenter randomized clinical trials, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses published between 2025 and 2026 were included. The literature search identified 330 records, from which 5 studies met the eligibility criteria. These studies demonstrated that connective tissue grafting significantly increases peri-implant soft tissue thickness and yields favorable clinical outcomes; however, collagen matrices also demonstrated satisfactory clinical performance. In summary, connective tissue grafting provides a predictable and effective approach for optimizing soft tissue stability and peri-implant aesthetic outcomes, maintaining its role as a primary standard for peri-implant soft tissue augmentation. However, new studies with long-term follow-ups are needed to strengthen the available evidence.
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