Subepithelial connective tissue graft with growth factor for the treatment of maxillary gingival recession defects

Gingival recession is a challenging defect for clinicians to treat effectively. A number of recent systematic reviews have identified the connective tissue graft (CTG) in combination with coronally advanced flaps (CAFs) as the most consistently effective treatment for Miller Class I and II defects across all outcome measures. Recent advances in recombinant growth factor technology may provide opportunities for improved outcomes in conjunction with CAF + CTG procedures. In this prospective consecutive case series, recombinant human platelet-derived growth factor BB (rhPDGF-BB) was combined with CTGs for the treatment of Miller Class I or II gingival recession defects. Improved outcomes were seen for keratinized tissue gains and percent root coverage at 6 months postsurgery when compared to historic norms. All other outcome parameters appeared equivalent between the two treatment approaches. The addition of rhPDGF-BB appeared to improve early wound healing as well.