Collagen Matrix for Increasing Peri-implant Mucosal Thickness in Smokers: A Prospective Case Series

This prospective case series aimed to evaluate the feasibility of using a volume collagen matrix for soft tissue augmentation to increase mucosal thickness in single implants in smokers who consume more than 10 cigarettes per day. Participants had single submerged implants necessitating soft tissue thickening. Soft tissue augmentation was done using a collagen matrix in the second-stage surgery. The primary outcome was soft tissue thickness at 90 days post-surgery. Secondary outcomes included median thickness at 30 and 60 days, changes in buccal soft tissue profile (digital measurements) at 30, 60, and 90 days, and oral health-related quality of life using OHIP-14 up to 90 days post-surgery. Pain levels via VAS scale and adverse effects were also assessed. Ten participants (4 men, 6 women) aged 45.2 ± 13.18 years initially smoked 10-20 cigarettes daily (average: 14.70 ± 3.47 cigarettes/day). After 90 days, median soft tissue thickness increased to 3.00 (2.00;3.00) mm. Buccal soft tissue profile (median change in ROI) increased by 0.40 (0.25;0.62) mm at 90 days. Pain levels decreased, and oral health-related quality of life improved significantly. No complications were reported. The collagen matrix significantly augmented buccal soft tissue thickness at implant sites in smokers (>10 cigarettes/day), with favorable outcomes and no complications.