Late Complications Following Connective Tissue Grafts: A Narrative Review and Illustrative Cases

Subepithelial connective tissue graft (CTG) is widely regarded as the gold standard procedure to augment attached gingiva around teeth and implants. This illustrative review focuses on the most common late complications associated to subepithelial CTG procedures, including unesthetic soft tissue texture and chromatic alterations, gingival cyst formation, gingival overgrowth, bone exostosis, and root resorption. Relevant literature is critically reviewed to widen the clinician's perspective both at diagnosis and therapeutic levels. A focused overview of currently recognized late complications is presented, supported with representative clinical cases to illustrate their presentation, etiology, diagnosis, management, and potential for recurrence. This review aims to guide clinicians in identifying and preventing late complications, allowing for an early detection, thereby minimizing their impact and exploring effective treatment strategies for complete resolution.