Advantages of using touch-controlled, minimally invasive implantation technique on soft tissue in the aesthetic zone of maxillary anterior teeth

Endosseous implant is an ideal treatment option for the treatment of denture defects and omissions. However, how to maintain the perfect gum contour of patients has been an important research topic for stomatologists and has attracted much attention. The objective of this study was to explore the advantages of minimally invasive touch-controlled implantation in maintaining soft tissue morphology in the aesthetic area of maxillary anterior teeth. Forty patients underwent preoperative cone-beam computed tomography and were randomly divided into 2 groups: experimental group (touch-controlled, minimally invasive implantation approach, n = 20) and control group (traditional flap implantation approach, n = 20). The operative time, postoperative pain, gingival recession, and patient satisfaction were compared between the 2 groups. The independent sample t test was employed to compare the results, with a significance level of α = 0.05. Statistical significance was determined at P < .05. The operative time was 4.50 and 9.21 minutes, respectively, for 2 groups, P < .001. The mean pain scores of 2 groups were 1.09 and 2.14, respectively, at 24 hours after surgery, P < .001. The H values (the distance from the labial edge of the implant healing cap to the lowest gingival margin), 6 weeks after surgery, of 2 groups were 2.69 and 3.05, respectively, P = .023. There was a significant difference in patient satisfaction between 2 groups 24 hours after surgery (P < .001). Touch-controlled minimally invasive implantation has shorter operative time and lesser bleeding, postoperative pain, and gingival recession than traditional flap implantation, which is conducive to the preservation of gingival shape.