Soft Tissue Grafting

In the Bone Grafting section, we discussed the importance of having enough bone volume for implant placement. But the soft tissue plays an equally critical role in both the aesthetics and long-term health of implants.

• Aesthetics: The shape, volume, and architecture of the soft tissue dictate how a tooth can be designed. If soft tissue is missing, the implant crown may need to be shaped unnaturally or may leave an unwanted gap between the crown and gum, affecting the appearance.
• Health: Thin or mobile soft tissue offers poor protection around the implant. This makes the site more prone to infection, gum recession, and long-term instability. Transforming thin, fragile tissue into thicker, more stable soft tissue provides the implant with the durability it needs for decades of function.

By optimising the soft tissue before the final crown is placed, we ensure both the appearance and health of your implant are maintained over the long term.

Soft tissue grafting procedures are performed to:

• Increase the volume and thickness of gum tissue around implants.
• Replace missing soft tissue to improve aesthetics and natural contours.
• Enhance the natural look of crowns by shaping the gum line properly.
• Provide better protection against infection and recession, ensuring long-term stability.

Types of Soft Tissue Grafting Procedures

• Connective tissue grafting: To improve the volume of tissue and also to cover the missing part of soft tissue. 
• Free gingival grafting: To transform weak and non-stable tissue to stronger and stable tissue for more resistance to bacteria and physical trauma (from eating and brushing).  

These soft tissues are usually harvested from either the palate (roof of the mouth) or from the tuberosity area (located behind the upper molars).