Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 29, 2026
07:51
A Novel Approach to Monitoring Graft Neovascularization in the Human Gingiva
Published on: January 12, 2019
Surgical microscope may enhance root coverage with subepithelial connective tissue graft: a randomized-controlled
Sandro Bittencourt1, Erica Del Peloso Ribeiro, Enilson A Sallum
1Bahiana School of Medicine and Public Health, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil.
Journal of Periodontology
|August 30, 2011
Summary
Using a surgical microscope with subepithelial connective tissue grafts (SCTG) significantly improves root coverage and patient satisfaction for gingival recession treatment. This minimally invasive technique offers enhanced clinical benefits compared to traditional methods.
Area of Science:
- Periodontal Plastic Surgery
- Minimally Invasive Dentistry
- Regenerative Periodontal Therapy
Background:
- Minimally invasive techniques are advancing periodontal plastic surgery.
- Subepithelial connective tissue graft (SCTG) is a common technique for treating gingival recessions.
- The role of surgical microscopes in enhancing SCTG outcomes requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare root coverage, postoperative morbidity, and esthetic outcomes of SCTG with and without a surgical microscope.
- To evaluate the clinical benefits of using a surgical microscope in treating gingival recessions.
Main Methods:
- A split-mouth study involving 24 patients with bilateral gingival recessions.
- Gingival recessions were treated with SCTG, either with (test) or without (control) a surgical microscope.
- Evaluated parameters included recession depth/width, keratinized tissue width/thickness, probing depth, and clinical attachment level.
Main Results:
- The surgical microscope group achieved significantly higher root coverage (98.0% vs. 88.3%) and complete root coverage (87.5% vs. 58.3%).
- Improved esthetic satisfaction was reported in the microscope group (100% vs. 79.1%).
- No significant differences were observed in postoperative morbidity or most clinical parameters between the groups.
Conclusions:
- Both SCTG techniques effectively provide root coverage for gingival recessions.
- The use of a surgical microscope offers significant clinical advantages, including superior root coverage and esthetic outcomes.
- Microscope-assisted SCTG is recommended for enhanced treatment results in periodontal plastic surgery.
