The use of free gingival grafts to improve the implant soft tissue interface: rationale and technique.

Utilization of implants of all types to restore partially or fully edentulous patients to occlusal form and function continues to increase. The ability of the implant/bone/soft tissue interface of the implant-retained prosthesis to ward off a constant influx of microorganisms and their byproducts becomes a critical factor in the health and longevity of dental implants. The purpose of this article is to describe the rationale and technique for providing an improved quality of tissue adjacent to implant abutments.