Use of a hybrid soft tissue autograft for gingival phenotype modification lingual to mandibular incisors

BMJ Case Rep. 2023 Nov 16;16(11):e252586. doi: 10.1136/bcr-2022-252586.

Abstract

Presence of adequate dimensions of keratinized/attached gingiva (KT/AG) and gingival thickness (GT) is considered necessary to maintain optimal periodontal health and long-term stability of gingival margin. Gingival phenotype modification therapies to increase these two dimensions (GT and KT/AG) on the buccal aspect of teeth have been widely reported, but the literature on lingual gingival augmentation is scarce. The purpose of this paper is to report the outcomes of a case treated with an envelope flap combined with a hybrid soft tissue autograft (subepithelial connective tissue graft with an epithelial collar) for phenotype modification of gingiva lingual to mandibular incisors presenting with thin gingiva (<1 mm) and lack of AG in tooth # 31 and 42. At 12 months follow-up, a substantial gain in KT, AG and GT along with partial root coverage was achieved.

Keywords: Dentistry and oral medicine; Mouth.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Autografts
  • Connective Tissue / transplantation
  • Gingiva* / surgery
  • Gingival Recession* / surgery
  • Humans
  • Incisor / surgery
  • Tooth Root