Purpose: A modification of the secondary epithelization vestibuloplasty technique described by Kazanjian that eliminates the sharp V in the depth of the extended vestibule and counteracts shallowing of the sulcus is presented.
Patients and methods: Ten consecutive patients indicated for anterior mandibular secondary epithelization vestibuloplasty were treated. A bipedicled mucosal flap was developed in the labioalveolar mucosa for lining the extended vestibular depth. A comparison was made of the vestibular depth measured from the crest of the ridge to the junction of the attached mucosa both preoperatively and postoperatively.
Results: Healing of raw surfaces was uneventful. The mean preoperative anterior mandibular vestibular depth was 3.5+/-1.1 mm. After 6 months, the mean anterior mandibular vestibular depth was 9.2+/-1.7 mm, a statistically significant difference (P < .05). The mean gain in vestibular depth was 5.7+/-2.2 mm.
Conclusion: Overcorrection is unnecessary with this modification. Elimination of the sharp V in the extended vestibular depth enables denture fabrication with better flange extension and improved oral hygiene.