The Effect Of Enamel Matrix Derivatives On Gingival Tissue Thickness

The Effect Of Enamel Matrix Derivatives On Gingival Tissue Thickness. A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Scientists do research to answer important questions which might help change or improve the way we do things in the future.

The investigators know that using Enamel Matrix Derivatives results in thicker gum tissues around teeth. This study will test to see if using EMD around implants results in thicker gum tissues around implants.

The hypothesis of the study is that the addition of EMD under the gingival flap prior to suturing will result in increased mucosal tissue thickness and increased keratinized tissue width as compared to not using the EMD.

The EMD will be deposited under the mucosal flap during the second stage implant uncovering. After flap suturing, an intraoral scan will be obtained. This procedure will require approximately 5 - 10 minutes per patient. All patients will be followed up at 14 days for suture removal per standard of care and not as part of the study. All patients will be followed up at one and three months per standard of care during which visits they will undergo an intraoral scan to allow evaluation of soft tissue dimensions. This is research only procedure that is expected to add 5 - 10 minutes to the regular postoperative visit. Study participation will be completed at the 3-month visit.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Ability of subject to understand and the willingness to sign a written informed consent document.
2. Males and females; Age 18 to 89 years old
3. Require second stage implant uncovering
4. In either the maxillary or mandibular arch
5. Has consistent transportation for all clinical and study visits

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Pregnancy, or those planning to become pregnant
2. Allergy or any medical issue using EMD
3. Non-English speaking
4. Patients on anticoagulants
5. Patients who object to the use of animal products