Stability of Re-established Peri-implant Keratinized Mucosa in the Posterior Mandible over 20 years of Follow-up

• Published in: 대한구강악안면임플란트학회지, 29(2) pp. 80 - 88
• Main Authors: 박원배, Kitichai Janaphan, 신승일, 임현창
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: 대한구강악안면임플란트학회 01.06.2025
• Subjects: 치의학
• ISSN: 2765-7833; 2765-7841

Several studies have suggested that peri-implant keratinized mucosa (PIKM) is related to peri-implant health. Thus, PIKM augmentation, such as free gingival grafting (FGG), is often performed to re-establish the keratinized tissue zone. Implant sites may influence the long-term stability of the re-established PIKM; however, relevant data are insufficient. In three patients, three implants were placed in areas with missing first and second mandibular molars. To create the PIKM zone, an FGG was used. During the follow-up (≥20 years), the re-established PIKM at the distal site in the posterior mandible showed greater reduction than at the mesial site, indicating site-specific stability characteristics. Some implants present with unfavorable bone remodeling and peri-implant diseases, and these conditions seem to contribute to PIKM stability by forming unattached parts of the PIKM. The findings of this study should be verified in a larger patient population with healthier conditions. KCI Citation Count: 0