Objective: The
connective tissue grafts have been initially used
for the width augmentation of the gingiva, and later
for its thickness and for the covering of root
retraction and the soft tissue augmentation of the
alveoalar crest.
Material and methods:
A number of patients have been operated and the
width and gingival thickness recorded, using the
classic Langer&Langer technique, but also the new
microsurgical tunneling technique (Allen). 3 months
after the surgeries, all the parameters have been
again recorded.
Results: Using
these surgical techniques, the Langer&Langer and the
microsurgical tunneling with connective tissue
grafts, the graft recive a double vascularisation
from the inner layer of the flap and from the
underlying periosteum, leading to a optimal surgical
outfit in terms of colour and estethics.
Conclusions:
The marginal gingival width and thickness can be
maximized with the help of connective tissue grafts,
being a predictable surgical technique. It can be
aplyed to an increased number of teeth and because
of the harvesting and transplantation technique, the
healing occurs uneventfull and the postoperative
discomfort of the pacient is minimal.
Key words: attached
gingiva, connective tissue grafts, tunneling
technique
