Creeping Attachment-aided Root Coverage with Free Gingival Graft in the Esthetic Zone

Abstract

ABSTRACT Free gingival grafts (FGGs) are considered to be one of the most predictable procedures for increasing keratinized tissue width (KTW) in spite of shortcomings such as color mismatch and second surgical site morbidity. As the primary purpose of FGG is to increase KTW, root coverage is not deemed to be its tangible objective. Yet, it may be achieved on narrow recessions, especially by a distinct healing process known as creeping attachment (CA). The present case report aims at establishing the efficacy of FGG in gingival augmentation and CA after 6 months in the mandibular anterior region. CLINICAL RELEVANCE TO INTERDISCIPLINARY DENTISTRY The presence or absence of keratinized tissue plays an important role in controlling the inflammatory process, especially in patients with malocclusion or in patients who are undergoing orthodontic, prosthetic, or restorative treatment where oral hygiene maintenance is difficult. Free gingival graft is one among the procedures, which aims at increasing the width of keratinized tissue, and sometimes, root coverage can be achieved with the help of a phenomenon known as creeping attachment, especially in the mandibular anterior region.