Soft tissue root coverage as treatment for cervical abrasion and caries

Root exposure caused by gingival recession may result in cervical abrasion, root caries, root sensitivity, and compromised esthetics. Although cervical root lesions can be treated with Class V restorations, there may be advantages in treating them with soft tissue grafts for root coverage since they restore the dento-gingival unit to its prerecession condition. The rationale for root coverage with soft tissue grafts is reviewed and two cases are presented of successful root coverage procedures in which gingival recession associated with cervical abrasion and caries was present.