Objectives: The objective of this study was to determine and estimate the changing levels of matrix metalloproteinases 1 and 8 (MMP-1 and MMP-8) in GCF at consecutive stages of healing after root coverage procedure via modified coronally advanced tunnel (MCAT) combined with either sub-epithelial connective tissue graft (SCTG) or collagen matrix (CM) and also to relate those changes to clinical outcomes of both therapeutic approaches.
Materials and methods: The study involved 20 patients with a total of 91 recessions. Those on one side of the mandible received MCAT plus CM while the contralateral ones MCAT plus SCTG. The evaluation of MMP-1 and MMP-8 concentrations in Gingival Crevicular Fluid (GCF) took place at baseline, then at 1, 2, and 4 weeks, and finally at 3 months after surgery. Elisa protocol was applied to determine the levels of MMP-1 and MMP-8 in GCF.
Results: Three-month observation revealed statistically significant changes in MMP-1, MMP-8 and Sulcus Fluid Flow Rate (SFFR) values after implementation of both techniques. A correlation was found between a difference in MMP-1 concentrations and gain in Keratinized Tissue (KT) after SCTG and CM. MMP-8 levels and a Gingival Thickness (GT) gain observed after CM was also correlated.
Conclusions: A type of augmentative material does appear to determine the dynamics of MMP-1 secretion.
Keywords: collagen matrix; gingival recessions; metalloproteinase-1 and -8; subepithelial connective tissue graft.