Bilaminar techniques for the treatment of recession-type defects. A comparative clinical study

Soft tissue elasticity at teeth and implant sites. A novel outcome measure of the soft tissue phenotype

AIM

To assess ultrasonographic tissue elasticity at teeth and implant sites and its variation after peri-implant soft tissue augmentation with a connective tissue graft (CTG).

METHODS

Twenty-eight patients, each contributing with one clinically healthy dental implant exhibiting a soft tissue dehiscence (PSTD), were included. Implant sites were augmented with CTG and monitored over 12 months. Ultrasonographic strain elastography, expressed as strain ratios (SR1, SR2, and SR3, respectively) was assessed at baseline, 6-, and 12-month, and compared with the corresponding contralateral homologous natural tooth. SR1 assessed the strain/elasticity of the midfacial coronal portion of the soft tissue in comparison to the natural tooth crown/implant-supported crown, SR2 evaluated the strain of the midfacial coronal soft tissue in relation to the one of the alveolar mucosa, while SR3 depicted the strain of the midfacial soft tissue in relation to the interproximal soft tissue on the transverse ultrasound scan.

RESULTS

SR1 in natural dentition and at implant sites was 0.20 ± 0.08 and 0.30 ± 0.14, respectively (p = .002), indicating that the coronal portion of the soft tissue around teeth is generally more elastic than its counterpart around dental implants. Soft tissue augmentation with CTG promoted an increased stiffness of the midfacial coronal portion of the soft tissue over 12 months (p < .001 for SR1, SR2, and SR3). Strain ratios at the 12-month time points were significantly higher than the values observed at 6 months (p < .001). Regression analysis demonstrated that strain elastography ratios in natural dentition were significantly associated with keratinized gingiva width, and gingival thickness. At implant sites, SR1 was significantly associated with keratinized mucosa width and mucosal thickness (p < .001 for both correlations), SR2 was significantly associated with keratinized mucosa width (p = .013), and SR3 was significantly associated with the surgical technique performed in combination with CTG (p = .022).

CONCLUSION

Ultrasound strain elastography captures and quantifies tissue elasticity and its changes after soft tissue augmentation. A different baseline tissue elasticity was observed between teeth and dental implants in the most coronal aspect of the soft tissue. The main factors affecting tissue elasticity-related outcomes were the keratinized tissue width, and mucosal thickness.

Modified coronally advanced flap technique in the treatment of fibrous epulis: A case report with 1-year follow-up

BACKGROUND

Currently, the treatment of epulis is primarily surgical excision, which would greatly affect the aesthetics of patients if happened in the anterior region. It's challenging for clinicians to balance the aesthetic after surgery and less surgical trauma. To overcome this disadvantage, the authors propose the modified coronally advanced flap technique which applies the principles of minimally invasive surgery to provide satisfactory therapeutic results in fibrous epulis.

METHODS

We report a case of an 18-year-old female with the chief complaint of a gingival swelling in the right upper anterior region. After the initial periodontal therapy, the modified surgical approach was applied to this patient. Unlike conventional coronally advanced flap technique, an additional incision was made, and the free portion was rotated into the adjacent space to completely cover the trauma, which avoided the use of the second operative zone.

RESULTS

The gingiva recovered with normal color, contour, and consistency after surgery, the papilla filled up the proximal space well and was in good harmony with the adjacent papillae. The surgical results remained stable during the follow-up period.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of modified coronally advanced flap technique allows the clinician to successfully resume the natural appearance of gingiva in the treatment of fibrous epulis, as well as simplify the surgical approach, shorten the operative time, and demonstrate no tendency of recurrence.

KEY POINTS

Why is this case new information? This novel technique not only removes the epulis, but also takes into account the postoperative aesthetics of the surgery at the same time. This minimally invasive surgical technique reduces operative time and increases patient comfort. Keys to successful management of this case are as follows: (i) Adequate preoperative assessment of the location of the additional incision; (ii) tension-free coronal flap advancement. What are the primary limitations to success in this case? Clinical studies with long-term outcomes of this approach are needed. This procedure may be limited to larger gingival tumors.

Challenges and success in periodontal plastic surgery

To truly understand a field of study, one must delve into its past and examine the challenges and successes that have shaped its current practices. In the case of periodontal plastic surgery, recognizing how challenges induced changes over the last 70 years-from the 1950s to today-is essential to fully comprehend its evolution. This editorial provides a perspective on the field, highlighting the interrelationships between influential surgical techniques and advancements in research methodology. With each event building upon the last, the evolution of periodontal plastic surgery is a story of scientific progress and ongoing research, fostering a sense of community and shared knowledge.

Mixed-Thickness Tunnel Access (MiTT) through a Linear Vertical Mucosal Incision for a Minimally Invasive Approach for Root Coverage Procedures in Anterior and Posterior Sites: Technical Description and Case Series with 1-Year Follow-Up

PURPOSE

The goal of this article was to introduce a new root coverage (RC) technique, the mixed-thickness tunnel access (MiTT) technique, which approaches a full-split design and intends to augment soft tissues coronal to the gingival margin. It was shown step-by-step, and the results were presented in a case series.

METHODS

Healthy individuals (non-diabetics) and non-smokers with gingival recession (GR) type 1 or 2 (RT1 or RT2) were included. After evaluation, prophylaxis was performed 14 days before the surgical procedure. During the surgical appointment, one or two vertical incision(s) on the mucosa (around 1-2 mm apical to the MGJ), lateral to the papilla base, was/were performed after anesthesia. Initially, there was a partial incision to detach the mucosa of the muscles (split design). It was permitted (but not mandatory) to perform intrasulcular incisions. Through the vertical incision, internally, subperiosteal access from the MGJ toward the gingival margin (coronally) was performed to create a full-thickness tunnel. Then, communication from the vertical incision with the gingival sulcus and the papilla base occurred, keeping the papilla tip intact. A connective tissue graft was harvested and inserted through the linear incision or intrasulcularly. There were interrupted sutures. An adjunctive material may be applied (e.g., Endogain). The root coverage was measured using a periodontal probe and considered fully covered when the gingival margin was 1 mm coronal to the cementum-enamel junction (CEJ).

RESULTS

Nine healthy individuals (seven females and two males) aged 19 and 43 were enrolled. They were treated following the MiTT steps. Four cases had a single GR; two patients had two teeth involved; and three others had three or four GR. There were seven cases of RT1 and two RT2. All RT1 cases achieved 100% RC, while the mean RC obtained for RT2 was around 80%.

CONCLUSION

The MiTT technique can be considered a more straightforward approach for minimally invasive surgical techniques, which is a feasible option to treat RC with a high success rate, predictability, and esthetic preservation. Therefore, there is a technical sensitivity to performing the full-split design procedure.

Gingival pedicle with split-thickness tunnel technique: A retrospective case series for single mandibular anterior recessions

INTRODUCTION

Gingival recessions in the mandibular anterior sextant are a common clinical finding, but mucogingival treatment in this location is particularly challenging, due to several anatomical and surgical difficulties. In the present case series, a novel technique, called gingival pedicle with split-thickness tunnel (GPST), was retrospectively evaluated.

CASE SERIES

Fifteen patients presenting with a single buccal RT1 or RT2 gingival recession of a depth of ≥3 mm in the mandibular anterior sextant were treated by means of the GPST technique. Clinical periodontal parameters at baseline and at the last follow-up evaluation visit (6-84 months) were compared. Early healing was uneventful in all cases, and no complications such as flap dehiscence or loss of connective tissue graft were observed. Mean root coverage (mRC) was 98.1% ± 7.38%, corresponding to a statistically significant recession reduction (ΔRD) of 4.53 ± 1.19 mm. Complete root coverage was achieved in 14 of 15 cases. The gain in keratinized tissue width amounted to 3.13 ± 0.99 mm and was statistically significant, whereas no significant change in periodontal probing depth was observed after treatment.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, treatment with GPST technique seems to achieve a favorable and predictable clinical improvement in gingival recessions on mandibular anterior teeth. Why are these cases new information? Limited information is available about the management of isolated deep labial recessions in the mandibular anterior teeth. A novel surgical approach, called GPST technique, is described in a case series to specifically address this type of defect. What are the keys to successful management of these cases? Horizontal incision ≥ RECwidth Cut-back preparation helps to mobilize the flap without tension. CTG width ≥ 3 times RECwidth CTG height ≥ RECdepth Proper graft and flap stabilization need to be achieved. What are the primary limitations to success in these cases? Limited mesio-distal dimensions, which do not allow to obtain a pedicle with adequate horizontal width Very thin biotype may not be suitable because of the risk of inadequate flap vascularization.

Coronally advanced flap versus tunnel technique for the treatment of peri-implant soft tissue dehiscences with the connective tissue graft: A randomized, controlled clinical trial

AIM

To evaluate the efficacy of coronally advanced flap (CAF) versus tunnel technique (TUN) in covering isolated mid-facial peri-implant soft tissue dehiscences (PSTDs).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty-eight participants presenting with isolated non-molar implants exhibiting PSTDs were enrolled and randomized to receive either CAF or TUN, both with a connective tissue graft (CTG). The primary outcome of the study was the percentage of mean PSTD coverage at 12 months. Secondary endpoints included the frequency of complete PSTD coverage, changes in keratinized mucosa width (KMW) and horizontal mucosal thickness (MT), as assessed with transgingival probing, 3D optical scanning and ultrasonography, professional aesthetic evaluation and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs).

RESULTS

At 12 months, the mean PSTD coverage of the CAF and TUN groups was 90.23% and 59.76%, respectively (p = .03). CAF-treated sites showed a substantially higher frequency of complete PSTD coverage (p = .07), together with significantly greater gain of KMW (p = .01), increase in MT (p = .02), volumetric gain (p < .01) and professional aesthetic outcomes (p = .01). Both interventions showed an improvement in patient-reported aesthetics and a reduction of the anxiety related to the appearance of the implant compared to baseline, with the CAF group obtaining significantly higher scores (p = .03 for both PROMs).

CONCLUSIONS

CAF + CTG resulted in superior PSTD coverage outcomes, greater gain in KMW and MT, and better PROMs than TUN + CTG for the treatment of isolated PSTDs (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03498911).

Complications and treatment errors in root coverage procedures

Root coverage procedures have become very common in clinical dental practice. Even though these techniques are considered safe, the clinician may face several issues during the therapy due to their surgical nature. Some of these issues can be defined strictly as complications inherent to the procedure, whereas others are medical errors or treatment errors. This review will focus on describing treatment errors and complications that may arise during different phases of the root coverage therapeutic process and on how to prevent and manage them.

A Systematic Review of Randomized Clinical Trials Evaluating the Efficacy of Minimally Invasive Surgery for Soft Tissue Management: Aesthetics, Postoperative Morbidity, and Clinical Results

Background and Objectives: The necessity for less invasive and patient-friendly surgical therapies guided the development of the "minimally invasive surgical technique" (MIST). The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the efficacy of MIST for soft tissue management considering aesthetic results, postoperative morbidity, and clinical outcomes. Materials and Methods: Several databases were used to conduct a thorough analysis of the scientific evidence. To investigate randomized clinical trials (RCTs), MeSH terms and keywords were provided. Results: Eleven RCTs were chosen. These experiments included 273 patients. The trials that explored MIST for papilla preservation presented greater efficacy in increasing papillary height (p < 0.05). MIST showed stable clinical outcomes for the management of excessive gingival display and with a flapless technique for single implant placement. Considering the treatment of gingival recessions, some RCTs presented greater root coverage with MIST (p < 0.05), while other trials did not show differences between groups. Regarding aesthetic perception, five RCTs indicated high patient satisfaction with MIST (p < 0.05). Similarly, six RCTs reported that patients in the MIST group presented significantly less post-surgical pain and lower wound healing scores (p < 0.01). Conclusions: It was concluded that using MIST resulted in more clinical studies reporting better clinical outcomes. Considering aesthetic appearance, slightly more than half of the clinical trials also showed improved results with MIST. Likewise, regarding postoperative morbidity, 60% of the clinical trials also described better scores with MIST. All of this indicates that MIST is a good alternative for the management of soft tissues.

Evaluation of the Effect of Injectable Platelet-rich Fibrin on Palatal Wound Healing: A Two-arm Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial

AIM

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of injectable platelet-rich fibrin (i-PRF) as a potential catalyst for the acceleration of palatal wound healing after subepithelial connective tissue graft (SCTG) harvesting.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Referred patients to the Department of Periodontology with the complication of the gingival recession were examined. Thirty participants were chosen for root coverage surgeries with SCTGs, and randomly distributed into two groups; the study group (n = 15) with i-PRF was applied, and the control group (n = 15) without i-PRF. The wound healing index was evaluated on the 7th, 14th, and 30th days of the treatment. Palatal tissue thickness was measured before the treatment and at the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd months after the treatment.

RESULTS

The study group improved significantly the early healing over the control group on days 7 and 14 (p < 0.01), whereas no difference in the first month (p > 0.05) between the groups. Moreover, the study group showed higher tissue thickness mean in the first and second month (p < 0.01), but in the third month, there were no significant differences (p > 0.05) between both groups.

CONCLUSION

The i-PRF has favorable effects on the healing process by enhancing wound healing and increasing the tissue thickness in the palate after SCTG harvesting.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

For clinicians, it is important to know that we can use biological materials to accelerate healing in general, such as i-PRF. In this study, we used it in the palate, which may accelerate the healing so that we can repeatedly use the same area of the patient's palate for more than one occasion faster.

Minimal invasiveness in gingival augmentation and root coverage procedures

Minimally invasive surgical procedures aim at optimal wound healing, a reduction of postoperative morbidity and, thus, at increased patient satisfaction. The present article reviews the concept of minimal invasiveness in gingival augmentation and root coverage procedures, and critically discusses the influencing factors, technical and nontechnical ones, and relates them to the underlying biological mechanisms. Furthermore, the corresponding outcomes of the respective procedures are assessed and evaluated in relation to a possible impact of a minimized surgical invasiveness on the clinical, aesthetic, and patient-related results.

Comparative histological evaluation of intra- and extraorally de-epithelialized connective tissue graft samples harvested from the posterior palate region

BACKGROUND

Autologous connective tissue graft (CTG) is generally considered the gold standard for peri-implant soft tissue phenotype modification and root coverage therapy. The presence of epithelial remnants in CTG has been associated with complications after soft tissue augmentation surgery. However, a specific method for de-epithelization that is patently superior has not been identified yet. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of two different approaches to de-epithelialize CTG samples harvested from the posterior palate.

METHODS

Patients in need of periodontal or implant-related surgery that required harvesting a CTG from the posterior palate region were recruited. CTG samples harvested with an indirect approach were de-epithelialized using either an intraoral (IO group) or an extraoral (EO group) method. Tissue specimens were subsequently processed for histological analysis. The presence or absence of oral epithelial remnants was determined by two examiners using light microscopy.

RESULTS

Twenty-four patients, who provided a total of 46 analyzable CTG samples, were enrolled in this study. Histological assessment revealed that 19 out of 22 samples in the IO group were free of epithelial remnants. In the EO group, 20 out of 24 samples did not exhibit epithelial residues. These results translate into 86.4% and 83.3% of epithelium-free samples in the IO and EO groups, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the intraoral method may provide several practical advantages compared with the extraoral technique, both approaches for de-epithelialization of CTG samples harvested from the posterior palate region tested in this study were comparably effective. However, none of these methods ensured complete removal of the oral epithelium in a predictable manner, which should be considered in clinical practice.

Kuronale Kaydırılan Flep ve Bağ Doku Grefti ile Tedavi Edilen Dişeti Çekilmelerinin Retrospektif Analizi

Aim: The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the effectiveness of coronally advanced flap and connective tissue graft (CAF+CTG) in the treatment of gingival recessions (GR).Method: Periodontal records of 32 single and multiple GR in 11 patients treated with CAF+CTG were selected for the study. According to Cairo’s classification, recession type 1 defects were included. Recession depth (RD), probing depth (PD) and clinical attachment level (CAL) were assessed at baseline and follow-ups. Mean root coverage (MRC) and complete root coverage (CRC) were evaluated. Compliance with supportive periodontal therapy (SPT) was also determined.Results: Mean age of 11 patients was 29.6±4.4 years. The mean observation time of 32 recessions was 37.6±24.2 months. All clinical parameters showed an improvement between baseline and the latest follow-up. After treatment with CAF+CTG, MRC was 92.6±13.1% and CRC was achieved in 75% of the recessions. Compliance to SPT was calculated at 83.3%.Conclusion: The use of CAF+CTG yielded positive outcomes in terms of all clinical parameters and complete root coverage in Cairo recession type 1 defects with a mean observation period of &gt;3 years. The results of the present study confirm the use of CAF+CTG as a gold standard for the treatment of gingival recessions.

Modified tunneling technique for root coverage of anterior mandible using minimal soft tissue harvesting and volume-stable collagen matrix: a retrospective study

Purpose

In this study, we aimed to evaluate the clinical validity of the modified tunneling technique using minimal soft tissue harvesting and volume-stable collagen matrix in the anterior mandible.

Methods

In total, 27 anterior mandibular teeth and palatal donor sites in 17 patients with ≥1 mm of gingival recession (GR) were analyzed before and after root coverage. For the recipient sites, vertical vestibular incisions were made in the interdental area and a subperiosteal tunnel was created with an elevator. After both sides of the marginal gingiva were tied to one another, a prepared connective tissue graft and volume-stable collagen matrix were inserted through the vestibular vertical incision and were fixed with resorbable suture material. The root coverage results of the recipient site were measured at baseline (T₀), 3 weeks (T₃), 12 weeks (T₁₂), and the latest visit (T_l). For palatal donor sites, a free gingival graft from a pre-decided area avoiding the main trunk of the greater palatine artery was harvested using a prefabricated surgical template at a depth of 2 mm after de-epithelization using a rotating bur. In each patient, the clinical and volumetric changes at the donor sites between T₀ and T₃ were measured.

Results

During an average follow-up of 14.5 months, teeth with denuded root lengths of 1–3 mm (n=12), 3–6 mm (n=11), and >6 mm (n=2) achieved root coverage of 97.01%±7.65%, 86.70%±5.66%, and 82.53%±1.39%, respectively. Miller classification I (n=12), II (n=10), and III (n=3) teeth showed mean coverage rates of 97.01%±7.65%, 86.91%±5.90%, and 83.19%±1.62%, respectively. At the donor sites, an average defect depth of 1.41 mm (70.5%) recovered in 3 weeks, and the wounds were epithelized completely in all cases.

Conclusions

The modified tunneling technique in this study is a promising treatment modality for overcoming GR in the anterior mandible.

The effects of connective tissue graft position on clinical and aesthetical outcomes of gingival recession treatment: a controlled randomized clinical trial

OBJECTIVES

This randomized controlled clinical trial with 1-year follow-up compared the clinical and aesthetic results of coronally advanced flap (CAF) + connective tissue graft (CTG) positioned apical to the cemento-enamel junction (CEJ) (CAF + CTG-ACEJ) with CAF + CTG positioned on the CEJ (CAF + CTG-CEJ) for treating isolated gingival recession defects.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty-eight patients with recession type 1 (RT 1) with a depth ≥ 3, gingival recessions were enrolled. Nineteen patients were randomly assigned to the CAF + CTG-ACEJ group or CAF + CTG-CEJ group. Clinical and aesthetical evaluations were made at 6 and 12 months.

RESULTS

While the 6 months results showed that both surgical techniques were similar for clinical outcomes, the results achieved at the 6th month were more stable in the CAF + CTG-ACEJ group at the 12th month with significantly better recession depth, mean, and complete root coverage values and aesthetical results.

CONCLUSIONS

Isolated gingival recession defects can be clinically successfully treated by both CAF + CTG-ACEJ and CAF + CTG-CEJ techniques.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Limited studies have compared the clinical and aesthetical effects of positioning CTG apical to the CEJ for the treatment of gingival recessions. This randomized clinical study showed that CAF + CTG-ACEJ technique can provide additional benefit for the treatment. The described technique is effective in obtaining better long-term CRC stability and aesthetics.

Er:Yag Laser Root Modification for Single Root Recession Class III Coverage – Case Report

Gingival recession is a common dental condition causing esthetic and functional problems to the patients. In the present case report gingival recession Miller class III is treated with bilaminar technique and subepithelial connective tissue graft where the tooth root surface is modified by Er:YAG laser and the case is observed for 5 months. There were no complications or side effects during the surgery and the healing period. The patient was stable after 5 months of follow-up. It could be concluded that the Er:YAG laser could be used in addition to mucogingival surgery, but longer observation and more studies are needed to clarify and prove its adjunctive application.

Mucogingival augmentation by connective tissue graft for the management of orthodontic-induced alveolar fenestration with soft-tissue deficiency: A multidisciplinary approach

Developing alveolar bone defects is one of the reported complications of orthodontic teeth movement especially in the region of the incisors, which may pose a risk for teeth health and their long term prognosis. In this case report, a 15-year-old female patient with an ongoing orthodontic treatment presented with labially protruded apices of lower anterior teeth and thin overlying soft tissue which caused esthetic and functional concerns. A combined periodontal-orthodontic approach was carried out starting with soft-tissue augmentation using bilaminar technique with sub-epithelial connective tissue graft and single incision access flap, followed by orthodontic repositioning of teeth. The augmented site healed uneventfully, and thick soft-tissue coverage was evident which helped the camouflage of the defect area and allowed for the recommencement of orthodontic treatment. Hence, orthodontic-induced alveolar defects with mucogingival complications can be successfully managed through a multidisciplinary approach with stable results after 1 year.

A new digital evaluation protocol applied in a retrospective analysis of periodontal plastic surgery of gingival recessions

This research aimed to develop a new digital evaluation protocol to objectively quantify the volumetric changes of root coverage periodontal plastic surgery when combined with connective tissue graft. Consecutive patients with Cairo recession type 1 (RT1) or Cairo recession type 2 (RT2) were treated. Accurate study models obtained at baseline and follow-ups were optically scanned. Healing dynamics were measured by calculating volume differences between time points. Nineteen patients were treated between December 2014 and January 2019. At 3-month follow-up, root coverage was 95.6% (± 14.5%) with tunnel and connective tissue graft (TUN + CTG) technique, and 88.9% (± 20.5%) with the vestibular incision subperiosteal tunnel access and connective tissue graft (VISTA + CTG) technique. Recession decreased 1.33 (± 0.86) mm and 1.42 (± 0.92) mm, respectively (p = 0.337). At 6-month follow-up, root coverage was 96.5% (± 10.4%) with the TUN + CTG and 93.9% (± 10.3%) with the VISTA + CTG. Recession decreased 1.35 (± 0.85) mm and 1.45 (± 0.82) mm, respectively (p = 0.455). Complete root coverage was achieved in 86.7% (± 0.4%) with TUN + CTG and 70.6% (± 0.5%) with VISTA + CTG. No statistically significant differences were found between techniques. The digital protocol presented proved to be a non-invasive technique for accurate measurements of clinical outcomes. Both techniques reduce gingival recessions, with no statistically significant differences.

Assessment of Patients’ Satisfaction following Coverage of Gingival Recessions: Questionnaire-Based Case Series

Background/Aim: One of the most important goals of periodontal plastic surgery constitutes the predictable root coverage. Despite the thorough documentation that several surgical approaches can be implemented for the successful treatment of gingival recession (GR), only limited papers reported data on the evaluation according to patient’s opinion. Thus, the forthcoming study is aiming in the patient-based assessment of the outcome of root coverage procedures.

Material and Methods: Sixteen subjects (eight male, eight female; mean age 43.75 years, range: 23-73 years), with twenty one GRs, constituted the sample of this study and the root coverage procedures were executed in the period from 2011 to 2019. A patient-based questionnaire was used to assess the level of subjects’ concern on various aspects related to the GR, preand post-operatively. Patient’s overall post-operative satisfaction was evaluated with a VAS.

Results: After a period of at least 6 months of the surgical treatment, the majority of the subjects indicated that they were not concerned for all the examined criteria. The criteria with the highest improvement (reported as improvement by at least two levels of concern pre- and post-operatively) were the following: 1) fear to lose the involved teeth and 2) esthetics of the area of the recession defect. With regard to esthetics’ criteria, the majority of the patients indicated post-operatively the examined criteria as not important. The esthetics’ criteria yielding the highest improvement were: 1) position of the teeth and 2) the fact that the teeth showed longer. Mean patient’s overall post-operative satisfaction was 82,3 (range: 0-100).

Conclusions: The majority of the subjects were satisfied from the implemented root coverage procedures. Few studies on the international literature have evaluated patient satisfaction following therapy. Comprehensive, multi-center studies, comprised of a large sample and a using a standardized approach are needed in future research.

Is the postoperative discomfort after connective tissue harvesting from the palate influenced by the use of a bipolar coagulator? A randomized controlled trial

Objectives

This study aimed to determine the effect of the use of a bipolar coagulator on postoperative pain and complications when used during connective tissue harvesting from the palate.

Material and methods

A randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted with 57 sequential patients requiring a connective tissue graft for periodontal or implant surgery. All samples were harvested superficially and de‐epithelized outside the mouth. The patients were randomly allocated to two groups: in one group, the bipolar coagulator was used before suturing to control bleeding, and in the other group, the coagulator was not used. The surgeon was unaware of the randomization until the end of the harvesting phase. Self‐reported maximum pain, number of painkillers used, bleeding events, emergency visits at the clinic were recorded 7 days after surgery.

Results

Fifty patients were randomized and treated (seven were excluded for different reasons). The mean harvested area was 75.24 mm² (SD, 33.96), and the mean thickness of the samples was 2.47 mm (SD, 0.75). The mean self‐reported pain value on the visual analog scale was 3.37 (SD, 2.30), and the mean number of pain medications used was 7.1 (SD, 6.60). Seven patients made an emergency visit each, and 17 delayed bleeding events were reported by 15 patients. No statistically significant differences were reported in postoperative pain, postoperative bleeding, and emergency visit to the clinic between the groups that did and did not use the bipolar coagulator. When smoking habits were taken into consideration, the number of pain medications was higher among male smokers and older smokers than among male non‐smokers and younger smokers. This study was not able to find a relationship between harvested sample dimension or thickness and postoperative discomfort.

Conclusions

The bipolar coagulator can be used during connective tissue harvesting from the palate to control bleeding without influencing postoperative pain.

Complete root coverage in the treatment of Miller class III or RT2 gingival recessions: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

The primary objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to assess the evidence on complete root coverage (CRC) achieved by periodontal plastic techniques in the treatment of Miller class III/RT2 gingival recessions, comparing techniques developed along the twentieth century (pre-twenty-first) versus surgical approaches of the twenty-first century (21st).

Methods

An electronic bibliographic search was carried out in four databases up to December 2019, focusing on studies that reported CRC results in Miller class III or RT2 recessions treatment with at least a six-month follow-up. In addition, a random-effects models’ meta-analysis was performed for the CRC, comparing pre-twenty-first versus twenty-first century techniques at 6 months, 12 months and more than 12 months.

Results

Thirty-seven publications were included. A total of 933 gingival recessions were treated, 298 with pre-twenty-first century surgical techniques and 635 with techniques from the twenty-first century. CRC was achieved at 6 months on half of the recessions (pre-twenty-first: 57.60% vs. 21st: 51.11%), but decreased markedly for twenty-first century techniques at 12 months (pre-twenty-first: 63.82% vs. 21st: 32.87%). Thereafter, this difference was the other way around (> 12 months: pre-twenty-first: 5.26% vs. 21st: 19.65%). The meta-analysis showed a high heterogeneity, with no significant differences amongst the techniques.

Conclusions

Although CRC might be achievable by treating Miller class III or RT2 recessions with any of the described techniques, its long-term stability is not predictable. More randomized clinical trials with longer follow-ups and several visits, are needed. In addition, the patient’s satisfaction should also be assessed.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12903-021-01494-3.

Description of the modified vestibular incision subperiosteal tunnel access (m-VISTA) technique in the treatment of multiple Miller class III gingival recessions: a case series

Background

Gingival recession is a common finding in the adult population. It is considered a challenge for clinicians to obtain a complete root coverage of Miller class III recession. The aim of this case series was to assess the outcomes achieved with the use of modified VISTA technique (m-VISTA) in patients having multiple Miller class III recessions after 6 months.

Methods

Ten patients (six women and four men; mean age: 53 years), who showed multiple Miller class III recessions (depth ≥ 2 mm) and who met the established inclusion and exclusion criteria, were treated by postgraduate students with the use of m-VISTA technique.

Results

A total of 38 recessions were performed. The recessions were mainly located in the mandible (80%), which included six molars. The mean baseline recession was 3.12 mm. Post the intervention, a mean root coverage of 58.72% was achieved, with complete root coverage observed in 29% of the recessions.

Conclusions

m-VISTA may offer several advantages in the treatment of Miller class III gingival recession. Nevertheless, more clinical trials with a longer follow-up period are needed to arrive at a concrete conclusion about its advantages.

Trial registration: NCT03258996.

Data registration: 08/18/2017.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12903-021-01511-5.

Regenerative Potential of Enamel Matrix Protein Derivative and Acellular Dermal Matrix for Gingival Recession: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Objective: The purpose of this study was to assess the clinical effectiveness of using a combination of enamel matrix protein derivative and acellular dermal matrix in comparison to acellular dermal matrix alone for treating gingival recessions. Methods: The Cochrane Library (Wiley), PubMed by Medline (NLM), Medline (EBSCO), and Embase (Ovid) databases were searched for entries up to April 2020. Only clinical trials were included. Primary outcomes were root coverage (%), changes in keratinized tissue width and recession (mm). Meta-analysis was conducted for root coverage, changes in keratinized tissue width, recession, clinical attachment level and probing depth. Results: Four studies were selected for the analysis. In primary outcomes, root coverage, change in keratinized tissue width and recession analysis showed a mean difference of 4.99% (p = 0.11), 0.20 mm (p = 0.14) and 0.13 mm (p = 0.23) respectively between the two groups. Secondary outcomes analysis also exhibited a statistically insignificant difference between the test and control group with mean difference of 0.11 mm (p = 0.32) in clinical attachment level gain and -0.03 mm (p = 0.29) in probing depth reduction analysis. Conclusions: Within the limits of this study, enamel matrix protein derivative combined with acellular dermal matrix used for treating gingival recession defects resulted in no beneficial effect clinically than acellular dermal matrix only.

Treatment of Gingival Recession: When and How?

Gingival recession is a common finding in daily clinical practice. Several issues may be associated with the apical shift of the gingival margin such as dentine hypersensitivity, root caries, non-carious cervical lesions (NCCLs), and compromised aesthetics. The first step in an effective management and prevention program is to identify susceptibility factors and modifiable conditions associated with gingival recession. Non-surgical treatment options for gingival recession defects include establishment of optimal plaque control, removal of overhanging subgingival restorations, behaviour change interventions, and use of desensitising agents. In cases where a surgical approach is indicated, coronally advanced flap and tunnelling procedures combined with a connective tissue graft are considered the most predictable treatment options for single and multiple recession defects. If there is a contraindication for harvesting a connective tissue graft from the palate or the patient wants to avoid a donor site surgery, adjunctive use of acellular dermal matrices, collagen matrices, and/or enamel matrix derivatives can be a valuable treatment alternative. For gingival recession defects associated with NCCLs a combined restorative-surgical approach can provide favourable clinical outcomes. If a patient refuses a surgical intervention or there are other contraindications for an invasive approach, gingival conditions should be maintained with preventive measures. This paper gives a concise review on when and how to treat gingival recession defects.

Novel Surgical Approach for Root Coverage Using Coronally Advanced Flap in Conjunction With Transposition of Periosteal Pedicle Graft

INTRODUCTION

Gingival recession is a complex phenomenon with multifactorial etiology. It is defined as the apical migration of the soft tissue margin beyond the cemento-enamel junction, thereby exposing the root surface. It results in the destruction of both soft and hard tissues.

CASE PRESENTATION

Three patients with buccal gingival recession defects underwent surgical treatment consisting of transposition of a periosteal pedicle in conjunction with the coronally advanced flap (CAF) technique. As the cambium layer of the periosteum has greater osteoblastic potential than the fibrous layer, this study considered juxtaposing of the cambium layer directly onto the denuded root surface. A 9-month review demonstrated satisfactory: root coverage; gain in clinical attachment, reduction in probing depth; and increase in width of keratinized gingiva with a good color match and minimal scarring.

CONCLUSION

Within the limits of the study, this CAF technique, in conjunction with the cambium layer of periosteum, showed a significant amount of root coverage.

A Modified Bilaminar Technique with the Use of a Fibrin-Fibronectin System for a Single Gingival Recession: A Case Report with a Follow-Up of 3 Years

This case report described a modified bilaminar technique for treating a single gingival recession. Patient presented a gingival recession in a maxillary canine. Tooth was in a buccally prominent position and soft keratinized tissue apical to the recession was reduced but still present. A split-full-split thickness trapezoidal flap was designed. Root's surface was prepared with curettes. Epithelial-connective tissue graft was harvested from the palate with reduced dimension. After deepithelialization, the graft was placed with a fibrin-fibronectin system at the maximum root coverage level, and the flap coronally advanced and sutured. At 3-year follow-up control, the free gingival margin was still stable at the postsurgery position, with a thicker biotype corresponding to the grafted area, with no probing and a suitable aesthetic result.

Gingival recession treatment with concentrated growth factor membrane: a comparative clinical trial

Objective

This clinical trial sought to evaluate the clinical effectiveness of concentrated growth factor (CGF) and compare it with connective tissue graft (CTG) with coronally advanced flap (CAF) in the treatment of Miller Class I gingival recessions (GR).

Methodology

This split-mouth study included 74 Miller Class I isolated (24 teeth) or multiple (50 teeth) GRs in 23 jaws of 19 patients. GRs were randomly treated using CGF (test group: 37 teeth; 12 teeth in isolated GRs, 25 teeth in multiple GRs) or CTG with CAF (control group: 37 teeth;12 teeth isolated GRs, 25 teeth in multiple GRs). Clinical variables, plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), probing depth (PD), recession depth (RD), recession width (RW), clinical attachment level (CAL), keratinized tissue thickness (KTT), keratinized tissue width (KTW), and root coverage (RC) were assessed at the baseline as well as at three and six months post-surgery. Healing index (HI) were obtained in the second and third weeks post-surgery. Postoperative pain was assessed for the first seven days using a horizontal visual analog scale (VAS).

Results

No significant change was observed in PI, GI, or PD values in either the intergroup or the intragroup comparisons. A statistically significant decrease was observed in CAL, RD, and RW, and KTT increased in all groups at three and six months compared with the baseline. The control group had greater increases in KTW, KTT, and RC at three and six months. No significant difference was found in CAL or RD at the third and sixth months between the two groups. Healing was found to be similar for both groups in the second and third weeks post-surgery. The VAS values in the control group were higher than in the test group, especially at the second, fourth, fifth, and seventh days postoperatively.

Conclusions

CTG is superior to CGF with CAF for increasing KTT, KTW, and RC. CGF may be preferable due to decreased postoperative pain.

Clinical evaluation of injectable platelet-rich fibrin with connective tissue graft for the treatment of deep gingival recession defects: A controlled randomized clinical trial

AIM

The aim of this study was to determine whether the combined connective tissue graft (CTG) with injectable platelet-rich fibrin (i-PRF) with coronally advanced flap (CAF) improved root coverage of deep Miller Class I or II gingival recessions compared with CTG alone with CAF.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Seventy-two patients with Miller class I and II gingival recessions were enrolled. Thirty-six patients were randomly assigned to the test group (CAF+CTG+i-PRF [700 rpm for 3 min]) or control group (CAF+CTG). Clinical evaluations were made at 6 months.

RESULTS

At 6 months, complete root coverage was obtained at 88% of the sites treated with CAF+CTG+i-PRF and 80% of the sites treated with CAF+CTG. Difference between the two groups was not statistically significant. At 6 months, the recession depth (RD) reduction and increase in keratinized tissue height (KTH) of the test sites were significantly better compared with the control sites.

CONCLUSIONS

According to the results, the addition of i-PRF to the CAF+CTG treatment showed further development in terms of increasing the KTH and decreasing RD. However, this single trial is not sufficient to advocate the true clinical effect of i-PRF on recession treatment with CAF+CTG and additional trials are needed.

44-year journey of palatal connective tissue graft harvest: A narrative review

Connective tissue graft (CTG) is considered the gold standard for soft-tissue correction and augmentation surgeries, but involves a secondary donor area and its associated complications. The techniques to harvest CTG have undergone a large number of modifications over a period of 44 years since the time it was introduced by Edel in 1974 to increase the width of keratinized gingiva. This review compiles all the techniques of graft harvest from the palate and their modifications which have been introduced in the last 44 years till date. This review is based on systematic reviews, comparative human studies, and case reports describing any new technique of graft harvest. Publications till April 2018 were selected and further reviewed. In addition, specific related journals and books were searched upon. In order to minimize the pain, bleeding, and morbidity associated with donor site, several researchers proposed harvesting of the connective tissue by means of different techniques, each precisely different from others in terms of design, incisions, and procedure of harvest. Although the latest techniques are minimally invasive with reduced incision lines, less compromised blood supply, accelerated healing, and no sloughing of the overlying flap, they are technique sensitive which requires higher expertise to execute.

Clinical evaluation of Miller class I and II recessions treatment with the use of modified coronally advanced tunnel technique with either collagen matrix or subepithelial connective tissue graft: A randomized clinical study

AIM

To compare outcomes of modified coronally advanced tunnel technique (MCAT) combined with either collagen matrix (CM) or subepithelial connective tissue graft (SCTG) in the treatment of Miller class I and II multiple gingival recessions in the mandible.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study encompassed 91 recessions in 29 patients for whom MCAT was combined with CM on one side of the mandible and SCTG on the contralateral one. The following clinical parameters were measured: gingival recession height (GR) and width (RW), probing depth (PD), clinical attachment level (CAL), width of keratinized tissue (KT), gingival thickness (GT), mean (MRC) and complete root coverage (CRC) and Root Coverage Esthetic Score (RES).

RESULTS

The MRC proportions on the CM- and SCTG-treated sides were 53.20% and 83.10%, respectively. CRC was achieved in 9 out of 45 (20%) gingival defects treated with CM and 31 out of 46 (67%) treated with SCTG. There were statistically significant differences in MRC, CRC, GR, RW, KT, GT and RES between CM- and CTG-treated sides.

CONCLUSIONS

Modified coronally advanced tunnel technique leads to reduction in gingival recession both when combined CM and SCTG, of which the latter is more efficient as far as root coverage and aesthetic parameters are concerned.

Root coverage procedures for treating localised and multiple recession-type defects

BACKGROUND

Gingival recession is defined as the oral exposure of the root surface due to a displacement of the gingival margin apical to the cemento-enamel junction and it is regularly linked to the deterioration of dental aesthetics. Successful treatment of recession-type defects is based on the use of predictable root coverage periodontal plastic surgery (RCPPS) procedures. This review is an update of the original version that was published in 2009.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the efficacy of different root coverage procedures in the treatment of single and multiple recession-type defects.

SEARCH METHODS

Cochrane Oral Health's Information Specialist searched the following databases: Cochrane Oral Health's Trials Register (to 15 January 2018), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL; 2017, Issue 12) in the Cochrane Library (searched 15 January 2018), MEDLINE Ovid (1946 to 15 January 2018), and Embase Ovid (1980 to 15 January 2018). The US National Institutes of Health Ongoing Trials Register (ClinicalTrials.gov) and the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform were searched for ongoing trials (15 January 2018). No restrictions were placed on the language or date of publication when searching the electronic databases.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) only of at least 6 months' duration evaluating recession areas (Miller's Class I or II ≥ 3 mm) and treated by means of RCPPS procedures.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Screening of eligible studies, data extraction and risk of bias assessment were conducted independently and in duplicate. Authors were contacted for any missing information. We expressed results as random-effects models using mean differences (MD) for continuous outcomes and odds ratios (OR) for dichotomous outcomes with 95% confidence intervals (CI). We used GRADE methods to assess the quality of the body of evidence of our main comparisons.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 48 RCTs in the review. Of these, we assessed one as at low risk of bias, 12 as at high risk of bias and 35 as at unclear risk of bias. The results indicated a greater reduction in gingival recession for subepithelial connective tissue grafts (SCTG) + coronally advanced flap (CAF) compared to guided tissue regeneration with resorbable membranes (GTR rm) + CAF (MD -0.37 mm; 95% CI -0.60 to -0.13, P = 0.002; 3 studies; 98 participants; low-quality evidence). There was insufficient evidence of a difference in gingival recession reduction between acellular dermal matrix grafts (ADMG) + CAF and SCTG + CAF or between enamel matrix protein (EMP) + CAF and SCTG + CAF. Regarding clinical attachment level changes, GTR rm + CAF promoted additional gains compared to SCTG + CAF (MD 0.35; 95% CI 0.06 to 0.63, P = 0.02; 3 studies; 98 participants; low-quality evidence) but there was insufficient evidence of a difference between ADMG + CAF and SCTG + CAF or between EMP + CAF and SCTG + CAF. Greater gains in the keratinized tissue were found for SCTG + CAF when compared to EMP + CAF (MD -1.06 mm; 95% CI -1.36 to -0.76, P < 0.00001; 2 studies; 62 participants; low-quality evidence), and SCTG + CAF when compared to GTR rm + CAF (MD -1.77 mm; 95% CI -2.66 to -0.89, P < 0.0001; 3 studies; 98 participants; very low-quality evidence). There was insufficient evidence of a difference in keratinized tissue gain between ADMG + CAF and SCTG + CAF. Few data exist on aesthetic condition change related to patients' opinion and patients' preference for a specific procedure.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Subepithelial connective tissue grafts, coronally advanced flap alone or associated with other biomaterial and guided tissue regeneration may be used as root coverage procedures for treating localised or multiple recession-type defects. The available evidence base indicates that in cases where both root coverage and gain in the width of keratinized tissue are expected, the use of subepithelial connective tissue grafts shows a slight improvement in outcome. There is also some weak evidence suggesting that acellular dermal matrix grafts appear as the soft tissue substitute that may provide the most similar outcomes to those achieved by subepithelial connective tissue grafts. RCTs are necessary to identify possible factors associated with the prognosis of each RCPPS procedure. The potential impact of bias on these outcomes is unclear.

High-resolution dental magnetic resonance imaging for planning palatal graft surgery-a clinical pilot study

AIM

To evaluate whether high-resolution, non-contrast-enhanced dental magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can be used for accurate determination of palatal masticatory mucosa thickness (PMMT) and to locate the greater palatal artery (GPA).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In five volunteers (four males, one female; mean age 30.2 ± 0.4 years), two independent raters measured PMMT by use of dental MRI in 180 positions. For comparison, clinical bone sounding was performed. The GPA was identified in time-of-flight (TOF) angiography and MSVAT-SPACE-prototype sequence. Intra- and inter-observer agreement for MRI measurements, agreement between MRI and bone sounding were analysed by intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) and Cohen's kappa (κ).

RESULTS

Reliability of dental MRI measurements was high (intra-observer-ICC 0.962; inter-observer ICC 0.959). Agreement of MRI measurements with bone sounding was moderate (ICC 0.744), and the GPA could be identified in 60% of measurement points using the TOF-angiography alone and in 85% with additional information of the MSVAT-SPACE. Good intra-observer agreement was observed for GPA identification (κ: 0.778).

CONCLUSION

Palatal masticatory mucosa thickness measured by high-resolution, non-contrast enhanced dental MRI is comparable with that obtained by bone sounding. Dental MRI enables reliable, non-invasive and radiation-free planning of palatal tissue harvesting and can also be used for location of the GPA at 85% of measurement points, which might help reduce complications during surgery.

Surgery without papilla incision: tunneling flap procedures in plastic periodontal and implant surgery

Diverse clinical advancements, together with some relevant technical innovations, have led to an increase in popularity of tunneling flap procedures in plastic periodontal and implant surgery in the recent past. This trend is further promoted by the fact that these techniques have lately been introduced to a considerably expanded range of indications. While originally described for the treatment of gingival recession-type defects, tunneling flap procedures may now be applied successfully in a variety of clinical situations in which augmentation of the soft tissues is indicated in the esthetic zone. Potential clinical scenarios include surgical thickening of thin buccal gingiva or peri-implant mucosa, alveolar ridge/socket preservation and implant second-stage surgery, as well as soft-tissue ridge augmentation or pontic site development. In this way, tunneling flap procedures developed from a technique, originally merely intended for surgical root coverage, into a capacious surgical conception in plastic periodontal and implant surgery. The purpose of this article is to provide a comprehensive overview on tunneling flap procedures, to introduce the successive development of the approach along with underlying ideas on surgical wound healing and to present contemporary clinical scenarios in step-by-step photograph-illustrated sequences, which aim to provide clinicians with guidance to help them integrate tunneling flap procedures into their daily clinical routine.

Use of Collagen Matrix for Augmentation of the Peri-implant Soft Tissue at the Time of Immediate Implant Placement

AIM

The aim of this study was to determine the treatment outcome of the use of a porcine monolayer collagen matrix (mCM) to augment peri-implant soft tissue in conjunction with immediate implant placement as an alternative to patient's own connective tissue.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 27 implants were placed immediately in 27 patients (14 males and 13 females, with a mean age of 52.2 years) with simultaneous augmentation of the soft tissue by the use of a mCM. The patients were randomly divided into two groups: Group I: An envelope flap was created and mCM was left coronally uncovered, and group II: A coronally repositioned flap was created and the mCM was covered by the mucosa. Soft-tissue thickness (STTh) was measured at the time of surgery (T0) and 6 months postoperatively (T1) using a customized stent. Cone beam computed tomographies (CBCTs) were taken from 12 representative cases at T1. A stringent plaque control regimen was enforced in all the patients during the 6-month observation period.

RESULTS

Mean STTh change was similar in both groups (0.7 ± 0.2 and 0.7 ± 0.1 mm in groups I and II respectively). The comparison of STTh between T0 and T1 showed a statistically significant increase of soft tissue in both groups I and II as well as in the total examined population (p < 0.001). The STTh change as well as matrix thickness loss were comparable in both groups (p > 0.05). The evaluation of the CBCTs did not show any signs of resorption of the buccal bone plate.

CONCLUSION

Within the limitations of this study, it could be concluded that the collagen matrix used in conjunction with immediate implant placement leads to an increased thickness of peri-implant soft tissue independent of the flap creation technique and could be an alternative to connective tissue graft.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

The collagen matrix used seems to be a good alternative to patient's own connective tissue and could be used for the soft tissue augmentation around dental implants.

Quantitative changes in palatal donor site thickness after free gingival graft harvesting: a pilot study

AIM

The aim of this study was to investigate how donor sites thickness quantitatively change over time and at different points of donor site in spontaneous palatal wound healing after free gingival graft (FGG) harvesting.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty individuals were enrolled and divided into the following two groups based on the residual tissue thickness (RTT) after harvesting: Group 1, <2 mm; and Group 2, ≥2 mm. FGGs were standardized according to their dimensions and thickness and then harvested. Tissue filling was measured at three points of the defect area (mesial, central and distal) at various time points (baseline, after harvesting, and at 1, 3 and 6 months).

RESULTS

The thickness of newly formed tissue from the baseline to 1 month after harvesting was greater in Group 2 than in Group 1, whereas the thickness from 1 to 3 months and from 3 to 6 months after harvesting was greater in Group 1 than in Group 2 (p < 0.005). RTT was positively correlated with tissue filling in all the groups at all time points (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The palatal mucosal thickness after FGG harvesting might affect the filling of the defect. Within the study period, the periphery of the palatal wounds filled earlier and to a greater extent compared with the centre of the wounds.

Clinical comparison of coronally-advanced flap plus amniotic membrane or subepithelial connective tissue in the treatment of Miller's class I and II gingival recessions: A split-mouth study

Background. The aim of the present study was to compare coronally advanced flap (CAF) plus amniotic membrane (AM) to CAF with connective tissue graft (CTG) in the treatment of Miller’s class I and II gingival recessions.

Methods. Eleven healthy subjects with thirty Miller’s class І and ІІ gingival recessions ≥3 mm, were selevted for this research and randomly assigned to two groups in a split-mouth design. In the control group gingival recessions were treated with CAF and CTG; however, in the test group the lesions were treated with (AM) and CAF. The clinical parameters, including recession depth (RD), recession width (RW), keratinized tissue width (WKT), probing depth (PD) and clinical attachment level (CAL), were measured at baseline and 1, 3 and 6 months postoperatively. Statistical significance was set at P < 0.01.

Results. Position changes of RD, RW, CAL, and MGJ were significant between baseline and one month after surgery (P < 0.01) in both the test and control groups and these values remained unchanged at 3- and 6-month follow-ups. There were no statistically significant differences in PD and WKT between baseline and 1-, 3- and 6-months intervals postoperatively. The mean root coverage values after 6 months were 75.5% and 63.1% for two groups, respectively. The mean recession depth reductions were 2.63±0.63 mm and 2±1.4 mm in the test and control groups, respectively.

Conclusion. The results of this research showed that application of AM instead of connective tissue decreased surgical operation time and patient discomfort but the amount of root coverage was not significantly different between the two methods.

Periodontal soft tissue root coverage procedures: a systematic review from the AAP Regeneration Workshop

BACKGROUND

This paper aims to create a "bridge" between research and practice by developing a practical, extensive, and clinically relevant study that translates evidence-based findings on soft tissue root coverage (RC) of recession-type defects to daily clinical practice.

METHODS

This review is prepared in accordance with the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) statement based on the proposed focused questions. A literature search with no restrictions regarding status or the language of publication was performed for MEDLINE and EMBASE databases up to and including June 2013. Systematic reviews (SRs), randomized clinical trials, controlled clinical trials, case series, and case reports evaluating recession areas that were treated by means of RC procedures were considered eligible for inclusion through the three parts of the study (part I, an overview of the base of SRs; part II, an alternative random-effects meta-analyses on mean percentage of RC and sites exhibiting complete RC; and part III, an SR of non-randomized trials exploring other conditions not extensively evaluated by previous SRs). Data on Class I, II, III, and IV recessions, type of histologic attachment achieved with treatment, recipient- and donor-site anatomic characteristics, smoking-related outcomes, root surface conditions, tooth type and location, long-term effectiveness outcomes, unusual conditions that may be reported during conventional daily practice, and patient-centered outcomes were assessed as well.

RESULTS

Of the 2,456 potentially eligible trials, 234 were included. Data on Class I, II, III, and IV gingival recessions, histologic attachment achieved after treatment, recipient- and donor-site anatomic characteristics, smoking-related outcomes, root surface conditions/biomodification, tooth type and location, long-term effectiveness outcomes and unusual conditions that may be reported during conventional daily practice, and patient-centered outcomes (i.e., esthetic, visual analog scale, complications, hypersensitivity, patients perceptions) were assessed. Subepithelial connective tissue (CT)-based procedures and coronally advanced flap plus acellular dermal matrix grafts, enamel matrix derivative, or collagen matrix led to the best improvements of recession depth, clinical attachment level (CAL) gain, and keratinized tissue (KT). Some conditions, such as smoking and use of magnification, may affect RC outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

All RC procedures can provide significant reduction in recession depth and CAL gain for Miller Class I and II recession-type defects. Subepithelial CT graft-based procedures provided the best outcomes for clinical practice because of their superior percentages of mean and complete RC, as well as significant increase of KT.

Coronally advanced flap with or without porcine collagen matrix for root coverage: a randomized clinical trial

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this study is to clinically evaluate the outcomes following treatment of single gingival recessions with either coronally advanced flap technique (CAF) alone or combined with a porcine collagen matrix graft (CM).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This is a randomized parallel design clinical trial, including forty patients with single Miller Class I or II gingival recession, with a depth ≥ 2 mm and located at upper canines or premolars. The patients were randomly assigned to receive either CAF or CAF + CM. The primary outcome variable was gingival recession reduction (Rec Red).

RESULTS

Baseline recession depth was 3.14 ± 0.51 mm for CAF group and 3.16 ± 0.65 mm for CAF + CM group (p > 0.05). Both groups showed significant Rec Red (p < 0.05), up to 6 months. Rec Red for CAF + CM was 2.41 ± 0.73 mm and was 2.25 ± 0.50 mm for CAF alone (p > 0.05). Root coverage was 77.2 % in the CAF + CM group and 72.1 % in the CAF group (p > 0.05). Complete root coverage (CRC) was found in 40 % of the cases in the CAF + CM group and in 35 % of the sites treated with CAF. Keratinized tissue thickness (KTT) was 0.26 mm higher in CAF + CM group (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

It can be concluded that CAF + CM does not provide a superior recession reduction when compared to CAF; however, it may offer a small gain in KTT after 6 months.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

CAF + CM can be suggested as a valid therapeutic option to achieve root coverage and some increase in soft tissue thickness after 6 months.

Root coverage using a coronally advanced flap with or without acellular dermal matrix: a meta-analysis

Purpose

Gingival recession is a major esthetic concern and may lead to root sensitivity during periodontal treatment. Coronally advanced flaps (CAFs) with and without acellular dermal matrix (ADM) are widely used in root coverage procedures. The aim of this study was to analyze the efficacy of CAF in combination with ADM in the treatment of gingival recession.

Methods

PubMed, The Cochrane Library, and Embase were used to identify relevant articles. The articles were screened, data were extracted, and the quality of the studies was assessed by three reviewers with expertise in clinical practice, trials, statistics, and biomedical editing. The clinical endpoints of interest included changes in recession, probing depth (PD), clinical attachment level (CAL), and keratinized tissue (KT).

Results

Ten randomized controlled trials were identified, including six studies that compared CAFs with ADM and CAFs using connective tissue grafting (CTG) and four studies that compared CAFs with or without ADM. No statistically significant differences were found between the use of ADM and CTG, whereas statistically significant differences were found between groups in which ADM and CAF were combined and groups that underwent CAF alone with regard to recession coverage, CAL, and KT. The combination of CAF with an ADM allograft achieved more favorable recession coverage and recovery of CAL and KT than CAF alone.

Conclusions

The results from the ADM and CTG groups suggest that both procedures may be equally effective in clinical practice. Given the limitations of this study, further investigation is needed to clarify the effectiveness of ADM and CAF in clinical practice.