Comparison between two different techniques for peri‐implant soft tissue augmentation: Porcine dermal matrix graft versus tenting screw

Background The thickness of the soft tissues around dental implants is crucial for both the preservation of the marginal bone and esthetic profile. Many authors have showed the thickened soft tissues favor a better peri‐implant bone stability; however, different thickening techniques can be used for this aim. Methods Forty‐seven patients were enrolled in this study, each one had one implant included in this analysis. According to the thickening procedure, patients were assigned into group A (porcine dermal matrix, n = 24) or B (healing abutment used as tenting screw to sustain the soft tissues, n = 23), soft tissue thickness was measured after flap elevation in a standardized way. Six months after implant placement, implants were uncovered and soft tissue thickness measured again. Results At second stage, 6 months after implant placement, the mean vertical thickness was 3.01 ± 0.58 mm in group A and 2.25 ± 0.53 mm in group B. The difference between the two groups at 6 months was significant (P