A Technical Modified Method for Harvesting Palatal De-epithelialized Connective Tissue Graft for Root Coverage: A Case Report

Abstract

Introduction: This case report describes a technical modified method for harvesting a de-epithelialized connective tissue graft used for root coverage procedure. This simplified, time saving approach can be used as an alternative to the conventional subepithelial connective tissue graft or de-epithelialized grafts previously introduced. Case Presentation: A healthy 22-year-old male patient presented with a 2 mm recession on tooth #24 and a 1 mm recession on tooth #25 caused by periodontitis. Results: Root coverage procedure was performed using a de-epithelialized graft harvested by a modified method from the palate. The modification is to de-epithelialize the graft with the desired dimensions on the palate and then harvest it already de-epithelialized. Complete root coverage with stable 2 year follow-up was documented. Conclusions: Recession defects can be treated with a modified de-epithelized graft harvested from the palate without significant inflammation. This technique may serve as an alternative for the conventional SECTG or de-epithelialized grafts.