Enhancing Dental Esthetics with Geistlich Fibro-Gide®
In search of a palate-free method for soft tissue regeneration for your patients? We spoke with Prof. Anton Sculean about Geistlich Fibro-Gide®, its advantages for patients, application methodologies, and how it's shaping the future of modern dentistry.
When do you use Geistlich Fibro-Gide®?
Prof. Sculean: Geistlich Fibro-Gide® is an excellent material for increasing soft tissue thickness. It can be used around teeth, implants, and for pontic augmentation.
Which thickness do you use most frequently?
The most common thickness is 3 mm. For recession coverage, we use 3 mm, but for pontic augmentation, the full thickness of 6 mm may be employed, depending on the indication.
When would you use 3 mm?
The 3 mm thickness is primarily used for covering recessions or increasing soft tissue around implants, as it allows for better flap closure. If implant placement is to be avoided, the entire 6 mm thickness may be used to augment soft tissue in the area of a pontic.
What time point do you choose for soft tissue augmentation?
Soft tissue augmentation can be done at the reopening stage when a lack of soft tissue or concavity is observed; Geistlich Fibro-Gide® can be placed under the flap. It can also be used during a GBR procedure, following bone/contour augmentation, on top of a Geistlich Bio-Gide® membrane, to further enhance thickness.
What outcome measure do you use to evaluate your results?
Key outcomes include facial convexity and surface texture of the soft tissue, which contribute to an esthetically pleasing appearance and prevent titanium shine-through.
What are the benefits of Geistlich Fibro-Gide® compared to autologous tissue?
Geistlich Fibro-Gide® is highly effective for increasing tissue thickness. While it may be difficult to use for long recessions, it excels in enhancing tissue bulk due to its cross-link structure. This structure attracts blood, stabilizes blood clots, and improves overall stability. The primary indications for Geistlich Fibro-Gide® are increasing tissue thickness and stabilizing wounds, including papilla around teeth.
Your tip for new users is…
New users should obtain proper training, as using Geistlich Fibro-Gide® differs from using connective tissue grafts or more stable membranes and matrices. Learn the correct techniques for suturing and stabilizing the material during the procedure. Avoid exposing Geistlich Fibro-Gide® during healing to prevent complications.
About the author
Professor of Periodontology, University of Bern, Switzerland
