A NEW TECHNIQUE TO COMBINE BARRIER REMOVAL AT DEHISCED IMPLANT SITES WITH A PLASTIC PERIODONTAL PROCEDURE

Three case reports are used to describe a new surgical technique that permits the combination of barrier removal and an apically repositioni ng flap procedure at implant exposure surgery of previously dehisced o r fenestrated implant sites. The flap procedure allows the creation of an adequate zone of keratinized mucosa. In contrast to existing techn iques, this method eliminates bone denudation on the interproximal and oral aspect by means of a split-thickness flap surgery. Advantages of this procedure are optimal protection of the bone and reduction of po stsurgical discomfort by minimizing the possibility of infection and r esorption processes on the bone surface. Furthermore, flap management and fixation are facilitated. Although the necessity of keratinized mu cosa around implants is controversial, its presence is favorable in ca ses where esthetics is important.