Soft Tissue Regeneration at Natural Teeth

Area of Science:

• Periodontology
• Oral Surgery

Background:

• Gingival recession affects numerous patients, leading to aesthetic concerns and potential root surface issues.
• Effective surgical techniques are crucial for successful root coverage and maintaining periodontal health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and synthesize evidence on the most effective surgical techniques for gingival recession coverage.
• To provide clinical recommendations for treating single and multiple gingival recessions.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of documented surgical techniques for recession coverage.
• Analysis of studies reporting on connective tissue grafts, coronally advanced flaps (CAF), and tunnel techniques.
• Evaluation of long-term stability and outcomes of different surgical approaches.

Main Results:

• Connective tissue grafts combined with either CAF or tunnel techniques are the most predictable for treating gingival recessions.
• Long-term data primarily supports CAF, with or without connective tissue grafts, demonstrating stable results and minor relapses.
• Alternative materials like soft tissue replacements and biologics show potential for improving outcomes or serving as substitutes for autogenous tissue.

Conclusions:

• Coronally advanced flap (CAF) with connective tissue grafts offers predictable and stable long-term results for gingival recession coverage.
• Emerging materials and biologics may enhance current treatments or provide alternatives to autogenous grafts in specific cases.