Clinical comparision of semilunar coronally positional flap and subepithelial connective tissue graft in root coveraging procedure

Several surgical approaches have been used to achieve root coverage. The Subepithelial Connective Tissue Graft (SCTG) procedure has been shown to be a predictable means to treat gingival recession. Semilunar Coronally Positioned Flap (SCPF) is a simple mucogingival surgery to cover the exposed root surface without harvesting the palatal connective tissue. The purpose of this study is to compare the outcome of gingival recession therapy using SCTG and SCPF. Forty Miller class I buccal gingival recessions (≥2mm) were selected. Recessions were randomly assigned to receive either the SCPF or SCTG. Recession Height (RH), Recession Width (RW), Width of Keratinized Tissue (WKT), Probing Depth (PD), Clinical Attachment Level (CAL), were measured at baseline, 1, 3, and 6 months after surgery. The data were analyzed using independent t-test and Repeated Measure ANOVA. The average percentages of root coverage for SCPF and SCTG were 88% and 71%, respectively; and the complete root coverage observed were 55% and 45%, respectively. There were no significance differences between the two groups with regard to RW, PD, CAL, WKT (except in the third month after surgery which was slightly greater in SCPF group). RH was significantly decreased from 2 to 6 months after surgery in SCPF group. The findings from this study indicate that if the tissue thickness and initial width of keratinized tissue are sufficient, SCPF may be a good substitute for SCTG in treatment of Miller class I gingival recessions.