Clinical evaluation of a new collagen matrix (Mucograft® prototype) to enhance the width of keratinized tissue in patients with fixed prosthetic restorations: a randomized prospective clinical trial

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this study was to test a new collagen matrix (CM) aimed to increase keratinized gingiva/mucosa when compared with the free connective tissue graft (CTG). Material and Methods: This randomized longitudinal parallel controlled clinical trial studied 20 patients with at least one location with minimal keratinized tissue (1 mm). Main Outcome Measure: The 6‐month width of keratinized tissue. As secondary outcomes, the aesthetic outlook, the maintenance of periodontal health and the patient morbidity were assessed pre‐operatively at 1, 3 and 6 months. Results: At 6 months, the CTG attained a mean width of keratinized tissue of 2.6 (0.9) mm, while the CM was 2.5 (0.9) mm, these differences being insignificant. In both groups, there was a marked contraction (60% and 67%, respectively) although the periodontal parameters were not affected. The CM group had a significantly lower patient morbidity (pain and medication intake) as well as reduced surgery time. Conclusions: These results prove that this new CM was as effective and predictable as the CTG for attaining a band of keratinized tissue, but its use was associated with a significantly lower patient morbidity.