De-epithelialized gingival unit graft for gingival phenotype modification and root coverage: a randomized controlled...

Area of Science:

• Periodontology
• Regenerative Dentistry
• Oral Surgery

Background:

• Gingival recession defects require effective treatment for root coverage and aesthetic improvement.
• Gingival phenotype modification is crucial for long-term periodontal health.
• Coronally advanced flap (CAF) procedures are commonly used, often combined with grafts.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy of de-epithelialized gingival unit graft (DUG) versus de-epithelialized gingival graft (DGG) in conjunction with CAF for treating single gingival recession defects.
• To evaluate outcomes related to gingival thickness, root coverage, and patient-reported measures.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving 15 patients with bilateral RT1 gingival recession defects.
• Surgical sites were randomly assigned to receive either DUG or DGG with CAF.
• Clinical, linear, and volumetric digital measurements, including gingival thickness and root coverage, were assessed at 6 months.

Main Results:

• The DUG group demonstrated significantly greater increases in gingival thickness (2.39 mm vs. 1.66 mm) and digital linear dimensions (1.66 mm vs. 1.13 mm) compared to the DGG group (p<0.01).
• Mean root coverage was higher in the DUG group (95%) than the DGG group (75%), although not statistically significant.
• Graft thickness was significantly greater in the DUG group (p=0.027). Postoperative pain and bleeding showed no significant differences between groups.

Conclusions:

• DUG appears to provide superior outcomes for gingival phenotype modification and root coverage compared to DGG in treating gingival recession defects.
• The baseline difference in graft thickness may be a confounding factor, requiring cautious interpretation.
• DUG presents a viable alternative for cases with limited recipient soft tissue thickness.