Abstract: Lack of adequate amount of keratinized gingiva around dental or implants is generally treated with coronally advanced flap in combination with connective tissue graft. The procedures of harvesting the soft tissue grafting are usually associated with a certain degree of morbidity; for this reason xenogenic collagen matrix was proposed to be used as an option to reduce morbidity. This collagen matrix quickly stabilizes the blood clot and promotes rapid vascularization. Moreover, this product promotes root coverage, reduction of recession and regeneration of keratinized gingiva both in width and thickness. Recently, xenogenic collagen matrix was also proposed as a biological material able to regenerate keratinized gingiva around implants. In this review, the role of xenogenic collagen matrix (Mucograft®) has been critically analyzed to evaluate its effectiveness and predictability in keratinized tissue augmentation around implants supporting prosthetic restorations. Most of the studies showed that xenogenic collagen matrix was effective in increasing the thickness of the peri-implant mucosa and in the gaining of keratinized gingiva with comparable or slightly lower results than autologous connective tissue grafts. From the aesthetics point of view, the gold standard appeared to be the autologous connective tissue graft. Histologic analysis showed a good integration of the collagen membrane that matures into a healthy tissue. Mucograft® seems an effective alternative to the autologous connective tissue graft with regard to the gain of keratinized tissue and the increase in thickness of peri-implant soft tissues, with less post-operative morbidity and reduced operative times.
