Protective Role of Adequate Keratinized Mucosa Around Implant to Maintain Peri-Implant Health Tissue and Brushing Discomfort: A Pilot Study

The important role of adequate keratinized mucosa width (KMW) around implants has been studied, and although it is still a matter of debate due to inconsistent research results, recent systematic reviews have linked it to improved soft tissue health, esthetic patient satisfaction and biologic complications. To evaluate protective role of keratinized mucosa width around implant with brushing discomfort and peri-implant health tissue. This cross-sectional study evaluates 31 dental implants in 17 patients at Periodontic clinic, Dental Hospital Indonesia University. Patient were recruited during maintenance follow up from January to March 2021. The sample group were divided into two groups: adequate (KMW?> 2mm) and inadequate group (KMW < 2mm). Peri-implant health parameters measured (Plaque Index (PI), Debris Index (DI) and Gingival Index (GI)), brushing discomfort (VAS) and periapical radiographic were evaluated. There was statistically different between the two groups accordingly to PI (P=0.00), DI (P=0.04) and GI (P=0.05), however brushing discomfort (P=0.15) and bone loss were not significantly correlated (P=0.23). There is a significant influence of keratinized mucosa width around implant on the health of the peri-implant tissues. Inadequate keratinized mucosa around implants associated with higher plaque index, debris index and gingival index. However there was no significant difference for brushing discomfort and bone level between the adequate and inadequate group.