Enhanced Peri-Implant Gingival Contours with Intra-Gingival Collagen Injections

Implant “success” is no longer measured solely by a non-mobile, functioning dental implant; dentists and patients also expect the implant, crown and peri-implant tissues to appear and function as beautifully as natural dentition. Gingival contouring is an issue following the placement of crowns on teeth or dental implants. Deficient interdental papillae, “black triangle” (Dental Research Journal, 2013) defects or asymmetric periodontal gingival contours. are not acceptable as thinned, depressed or otherwise inadequate papillae allow food and bacteria accumulation which compromises the integrity of the implant and surrounding bone. I have utilized collagen(FDA approved bovine collagen injectable cosmetic filler for facial rhytids)(fda.gov) to augment peri-implant gingival tissue. In my practice, I have found persistence of the papilla fullness for the  6 months since I began using collagen. In addition to addressing food entrapment, hygienic and functional concerns, gingival recontouring with collagen cosmetically enhances the appearance of interdental papillae and obliterates interdental black triangle defects. I will discuss risks and limitations of collagen injections, demonstrate  my technique and show photographs of several patient who have benefitted from intra-papilla collagen injections.