RESUMO
<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To evaluate the use of acellular dermal matrix (ADM) to improve esthetic effects of alveolar ridge in dental implantology.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Fifty patients with similar single missing tooth in the anterior maxilla were randomly divided into two groups: the ADM group was treated with dental implant therapy plus ADM transplantation; the control group was treated with dental implant therapy alone. The periodontal parameters and the changes of horizontal width of alveolar crest at implant zones were evaluated before surgery and 12 weeks after surgery.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>All operated sites healed uneventfully. Mean horizontal width of alveolar crest in ADM group increased by (3.10 +/- 0.64) mm at 12 weeks and the control group increased by (0.30 +/- 0.50) mm, The volume increase showed a significant difference groups (P < 0.05). Mean horizontal width of alveolar crest in ADM group was (11.50 +/- 1.48) mm and the contralateral alveolar crest was (11.60 +/- 1.60) mm (P > 0.05).</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>ADM is a suitable material for the treatment of soft tissue deformities due to its biocompatibility and horizontal gain of soft tissue.</p>