Abstract
Gingival recessions (GRs) can be multifactorial in its etiology. They occur either due to a mechanical influence or an inflammatory reaction in the gingival tissues. The cause should be diagnosed before taking any step in the treatment. The purpose of this case report was to highlight any adverse effect of the destructive ability of the psychological self-injurious behavior (SIB) to the gingiva and illustrate how such habits may affect the treatment success. In the reported case, a teenage patient had a constant habit of fingernails scratching that caused bilateral GRs in both mandibular canines. She admitted that this SIB was because of family problems. Usually, such persistent habit complicates the treatment; therefore, we planned for her psychological treatment first and then the periodontal surgical intervention using Alloderm ® for root coverage. After 7 days of good healing and predictable results, the patient’s careless behavior decreased the chances of the successful treatment. J Med Cases. 2017;8(2):42-47 doi: https://doi.org/10.14740/jmc2719w
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