Connective Tissue Graft Research Articles

Immediate implant placement in compromised extraction sockets using vestibular socket therapy with acellular dermal matrix versus connective tissue grafts in the esthetic zone: a randomized controlled clinical trial.

Immediate implant placement (IIP) in compromised extraction sockets poses significant challenges in maintaining the contour and level of mucosal tissues. This study compares the efficacy of vestibular socket therapy (VST) combined with acellular dermal matrix (ADM) versus connective tissue grafts (CTG) in IIP within the esthetic zone. Twenty participants requiring extraction in the maxillary esthetic zone were randomized into two groups: ADM and CTG (n = 10 each). Both groups underwent VST with bone grafting and dental implant placement. Clinical outcomes were evaluated at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months, measuring soft-tissue level and thicknesses, and the radiographic facial alveolar bone thicknesses and height. Both groups resulted in statistically significant increase in coronal mucosal thickness, facial bone height and thickness over time. CTG showed statistically significant increase at apical mucosal thickness over time, whereas the ADM group had a significantly higher facial bone height after 12 months. No significant differences were observed between groups in mucosal thickness and level at any time point and both groups achieved 100% implant survival. ADM and CTG are both effective for soft tissue augmentation and hard-tissue maintenance in IIP within compromised extraction sockets after 12 months. CTG may offer advantages in apical mucosal thickness, while ADM was associated with greater bone height. Both ADM and CTG effectively enhance soft tissue and maintain hard-tissue levels, with CTG providing better apical mucosal thickness and ADM resulting in greater facial bone height after 12 months. These insights help clinicians to customize treatment plans based on individual goals and patient needs.

Adjunctive therapy for root coverage with concentrated growth factor versus platelet-rich fibrin membranes: a systematic review and bayesian network meta-analysis.

To assess the differences between adjunctive therapy with Concentrated Growth Factor (CGF), Platelet-rich Fibrin (PRF) membranes, and available control groups in the clinical outcomes of root coverage. Randomized controlled clinical trials (RCTs) were identified in Pubmed/Medline, Scopus, and ISI Web of Science databases to assess the treatments after 6 months using a Bayesian random-effect network meta-analysis (NMA) framework regarding reduction in pocket depth (PD), clinical attachment loss (CAL), recession depth (RD), and width (RW), as well as, keratinized tissue width (KTW) and thickness (KTT) gain, and complete (CRC) and mean (MRC) root coverage percentages. Thirty-two RCTs were included, from which 27, 18, 12, eight, one, and one studies investigated PRF, connective tissue graft (CTG), flap alone, CGF, enamel matrix derivative (EMD), and dehydrated amniotic membrane, respectively. Thirty studies comprising CTG and flap-alone arms other than CGF and PRF were added to NMA. No significant difference has been found between CGF and PRF; however, CGF have a higher probability of being a better treatment than PRF in PD, CAL, and RW reduction and KTW gain, and PRF has a higher probability for being better in MRC, CRC, KTT gain, and RD reduction. PRF was significantly superior to flap-alone in terms of KTT gain and RD reduction. CGF had the highest probability of being the best treatment in PD and RW reduction, but in other outcomes, CTG was superior. PRF was significantly superior to flap-alone in terms of KTT gain and RD reduction. Both adjunctive CGF and PRF demonstrated improvements regarding root coverage outcomes. Although there is no significant difference between PRF and CGF, these two membranes might have different impacts on different outcomes. Further studies are required for a more comprehensive conclusion, especially on CGF. CTG is recommended for achieving ideal results in root coverage procedure. Since PRF and CGF both have a higher probability for being superior to flap alone, both could be suggested in cases which less than ideal outcomes are acceptable and minimization of patient discomfort is necessary.

Gingival morphology after using Fibro-Gide and FibroMATRIX collagen matrices and connective tissue grafts around dental implants

Gingival morphology after using Fibro-Gide and FibroMATRIX collagen matrices and connective tissue grafts around dental implants

The laterally closed coronally advanced flap: A case study

AbstractBackgroundSeveral methods have been described for treating deep Cairo Class RT1 recessions. Most involve relieving incisions, which cause scar tissue formation or use a tunneled approach. This report introduces a modified technique for treating a single deep recession beyond the mucogingival margin. The approach uses a laterally closed coronally advanced flap (LCAF) without relieving incisions, combined with a subepithelial connective tissue graft and enamel matrix derivative.MethodsA 28‐year‐old woman was referred to our periodontal practice for the treatment of a progressive deep Cairo Class I recession with hypersensitivity and limited access to hygiene measures. The root coverage procedure was performed using a modified LCAF, combined with a connective tissue graft from the palate and enamel matrix derivative. The case was followed for 6 months.ResultsThe healing process was uneventful. Six months after surgery, the root surfaces remained completely covered. Hypersensitivity resolved entirely, and there was only a slight formation of visible scar tissue.ConclusionsThis modified technique of an LCAF is a feasible and effective method for treating single deep RT1 recessions. By avoiding visible relieving incisions, scar tissue formation is minimized. The preparation of an LCAF allows for adequate coronal advancement.Key points As far as our knowledge, this is the first description of a laterally closed coronally advanced flap (LCAF) combining the advantage of a minimalized scarring root coverage with a simplified coronally advancement for recessions exceeding the mucogingival junction. This modified technique combines the advantages of a lateral closing with a CAF for covering deep class RT1 recessions. Meticulous handling of the delicate pedicles combined with a coronal advancement of at least 2 mm beyond the cemento‐enamel junction is the key factor for the successful adaption of this technique. Plain language summaryDeep gum recessions originating from traumatic hygiene measures can cause hypersensitivity and limit patients´ access to oral hygiene. Especially in deep recessions, the common surgical techniques have shortcomings due to a post‐surgical lack of keratinized gingiva or visible scar tissue formation. This case study shows the treatment of a 28‐year‐old woman´s deep recession on a mandibular front tooth introducing a modified surgical technique for covering deep gum recessions exceeding the area of the keratinized gingiva (so‐called deep Cairo RT1 recessions). This new technique uses a “laterally closed coronally advanced flap” (LCAF), which combines a curtain‐similar lateral closing of the flap pedicles with a coronal advancement to cover the recession without making cuts that can lead to scars. It is combined with a tissue graft from the patient's palate and a special protein to regenerate the periodontium. Six months after surgery, complete root coverage was achieved without remaining hypersensitivity and with restored access for oral hygiene measures. Minimal visible scar tissue formed. This case study demonstrates that the LCAF is a feasible technique for covering single deep gum recessions exceeding the keratinized area of the gingiva.

Connective Tissue Graft May Compensate for Residual Bone Defect of the Implant in the Esthetic Zone: A Case Report with 7-year Follow-up

The present case report aimed to demonstrate the case using a connective tissue graft (CTG) to compensate for a residual defect after guided bone regeneration (GBR) in the anterior maxillary area. An extensive number of studies have reported successful outcomes of horizontal bone augmentation, but it was also demonstrated that a complete resolution of the defect may not be achieved in all cases. In the present case report, the patient underwent implant placement simultaneously with GBR at the anterior maxillary area. After 4 months, partial regeneration of the initial defect was observed. To compensate for such residual defect, a CTG was applied. Other expectations by the CTG were to enhance tissue volume and phenotype. The final prosthesis was delivered after 3 months. Up to 7 years, favorable radiographic and clinical situations were observed. In conclusion, a CTG may compensate for residual bone defect of the implant in the esthetic zone.

Tunnel Technique and Subepithelial Connective Tissue Graft, With or Without Cross-Linked Hyaluronic Acid, in the Treatment of Multiple Gingival Recessions: Prognostic Parameters for Clinical Treatment Outcomes of Randomized Controlled Trial.

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate factors that influence the 12-month outcomes after the treatment of multiple gingival recessions (GRs) with a modified coronally advanced tunnel (MCAT) and a subepithelial connective tissue graft (SCTG), with cross-linked hyaluronic acid (HA, tests) or without (controls). Materials and Methods: Twenty-four patients with 266 GRs were treated. A logistic regression model was set to identify the baseline parameters that could predict the 12-month outcomes. The study protocol was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (ID No. NCT05045586). Results: The evaluated clinical and esthetic parameters showed marked improvement in both groups without any statistically significant differences between the groups, with the exception of the soft tissue texture (STT). The STT was in favor of the HA group (0.96 versus 0.73, p = 0.0091). The likelihood of an MRC > 85%, of achieving CRC, and of gaining an RES = 10 was the highest for the incisors (reference group) and the lowest for the molars (OR = 0.046, p = 0.005). With each 1 mm increase in the baseline clinical attachment level, the odds of failure (MRC < 85%, not achieving CRC) increased, whereas each 1 mm increase in the baseline keratinized tissue width (KTW) improved the chances of an MRC > 85%, of achieving CRC, and of gaining an RES = 10. The application of HA increased the likelihood of a perfect RES more than twofold (OR = 2.683, p = 0.001). Conclusions: The application of HA improved the 12-month esthetic outcomes after the treatment of GRs with the MCAT technique. The baseline CAL, KTW, and tooth type predicted the 12-month MRC, CRC, and RES. An evaluation of the baseline characteristics of the surgical area might help clinicians develop individualized treatment plans.

Advanced platelet-rich fibrin versus connective tissue graft in maxillary gingival recession management.

Platelet concentrates have gained significant attention in periodontology due to their regenerative properties. This randomized clinical trial was aimed to compare the clinical efficacy of advanced platelet-rich fibrin (A-PRF) and connective tissue graft (CTG) in the management of recession defects. The objectives were to compare changes in recession height and root coverage percentage between the groups. Systemically healthy individuals presenting Cairo's RT1/RT2 gingival recession defects in the maxilla (n = 40) were treated with either A-PRF or CTG in combination with coronally advanced flap (CAF). Clinical parameters were measured at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months. Mean and complete root coverage percentages were calculated at 3 and 6 months. In both the test (CAF + A-PRF) and control (CAF + CTG) groups, a statistically significant reduction in mean recession height was seen from baseline values of 2.90 ± 0.55mm and 3.15 ± 0.87mm to 0.80 ± 0.95mm and 0.15 ± 0.48mm at 6 months, respectively (p < 0.001). In the test group, 10 sites had complete root coverage at 6 months with mean root coverage of 73.76 ± 29.58%. In the control group, 18 of 20 sites had complete root coverage with mean root coverage of 93.35 ± 23.1%. The control sites had a significantly greater reduction in recession height and higher mean and complete root coverage percentages at 6 months (p < 0.05). The study findings suggest that, the CTG had resulted in superior outcomes than A-PRF along with CAF. Question: To compare the efficacy of advanced platelet-rich fibrin (A-PRF) with connective tissue graft (CTG) in the management of gingival recession defects. Both interventions showed satisfactory healing. At 6 months, the CTG group demonstrated superior results than the A-PRF group. Meaning: CTG has a greater therapeutic potential than A-PRF in the management of gingival recessions. Platelet-derived membranes are widely used in various dental therapies due to their healing properties. Limited studies have been conducted using the novel platelet preparations in the management of receding gums. This study compared the effects of advanced platelet-rich fibrin membrane with conventional soft tissue harvested from the palate in the treatment of gum recession. Twenty-three patients requiring gum augmentation were recruited and treated with either platelet-derived membrane (test group) or tissue harvested from their palate (control group). Clinical parameters were measured at baseline (before intervention), 3 months, and 6 months. Both treatment modalities resulted in significant gum coverage at the end of 6 months. On comparison, the control sites had significantly greater improvements in all the measured clinical parameters indicating that tissue obtained from the palate had superior therapeutic potential.

Immediate Implant Placement with Soft Tissue Augmentation Using Acellular Dermal Matrix Versus Connective Tissue Graft: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

This systematic review investigates the efficacy of using connective tissue grafting (CTG) versus an acellular dermal matrix (ADM) for soft tissue management in immediate implant placement (IIP). The study focuses on comparing the soft tissue thickness (STT) and keratinized tissue width (KTW) changes post-implantation. Adhering to the PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive literature search was conducted, targeting randomized clinical trials and cohort studies involving soft tissue grafting in conjunction with IIP. Data extraction and analysis focused on STT and KTW measurements from baseline to follow-up intervals of at least 6 months. The statistical analyses included the weighted mean differences and heterogeneity assessments among the studies. The meta-analysis revealed no significant difference in the STT gain between CTG and ADM at 12 months, with the weighted mean differences favoring the control group but lacking statistical significance (CTG: 0.46 ± 0.53 mm, p = 0.338; ADM: 0.33 ± 0.44 mm, p = 0.459). The heterogeneity was high among the studies, with discrepancies notably influenced by individual study variations. Similarly, the changes in KTW were not significantly different between the two grafting materials. Conclusions: Both CTG and ADM are viable options for soft tissue management in IIP, with no significant difference in efficacy regarding the soft tissue thickness and keratinized tissue width outcomes. Future research should aim to minimize the heterogeneity and explore the long-term effects to better inform clinical decisions.

Root Coverage Techniques: Coronally Advancement Flap vs. Tunnel Technique: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Gingival recession, characterized by the apical displacement of the gingival margin, presents challenges to oral health. This study compares the effectiveness of the coronally advanced flap (CAF) and the tunnel technique (TT) for treating gingival recessions. Bibliographical searches included PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane, Scopus, and the grey literature, with keywords "root coverage" "coronary advanced flap", and "tunnel". A systematic coreview was performed that included 26 studies evaluating root coverage, and 14 articles were included for the meta-analysis. Three groups were analyzed: Group 1 compared TT with connective tissue graft (CTG) versus CAF with CTG; Group 2 examined TT with CTG and/or other biomaterials versus TT with CTG alone; Group 3 compared TT with CAF, regardless of complementary biomaterials. Meta-analysis assessed mean root coverage (MRC), complete root coverage (CRC), and keratinized tissue gain (KTG). In Group 1, TT with CTG demonstrated superior MRC compared with CAF with CTG (-8.68 CI95% -17.19 to -0.17; p = 0.0457). In Group 2, TT with CTG and/or other biomaterials showed similar MRC (4.17 CI95% -17.91 to 26.26; p = 0.7110) and CRC (0.37 CI95% -1.14 to 1.89; p = 0.6269) to TT with CTG alone, with variations in keratinized tissue gain. Group 3 indicated higher potential MRC for TT compared with CAF (5.73 CI95% -8.90 to 13.55; p = 0.685) but without statistically significant differences. This study suggests that TT with CTG might offer better root coverage than CAF with CTG; however, biomaterial selection requires consideration.

The Effect of Carbodiimide Crosslinkers on Gelatin Hydrogel as a Potential Biomaterial for Gingival Tissue Regeneration.

Connective tissue grafts for gingival recession treatment present significant challenges as they require an additional surgical site, leading to increased morbidity, extended operative times, and a more painful postoperative recovery for patients. Gelatin contains the arginine-glycine-aspartic acid (RGD) sequence, which supports cell adhesion and interactions. The development of gelatin hydrogels holds significant promise due to their biocompatibility, ease of customization, and structural resemblance to the extracellular matrix, making them a potential candidate for gingival regeneration. This study aimed to assess the physical and biological properties of crosslinked gelatin hydrogels using EDC/NHS with two crosslinker concentrations (GelCL12 and GelCL24) and compare these to non-crosslinked gelatin. Both groups underwent morphological, rheological, and chemical analysis. Biological assessments were conducted to evaluate human gingival fibroblast (HGF) proliferation, migration, and COL1 expression in response to the scaffolds. The crosslinked gelatin group exhibited greater interconnectivity and better physical characteristics without displaying cytotoxic effects on the cells. FTIR analysis revealed no significant chemical differences between the groups. Notably, the GelCL12 group significantly enhanced HGF migration and upregulated COL1 expression. Overall, GelCL12 met the required physical characteristics and biocompatibility, making it a promising scaffold for future gingival tissue regeneration applications.

Effect of soft tissue volume on midfacial gingival margin alterations following immediate implant placement in the esthetic zone: a 1-year randomized clinical and volumetric trial.

The current trial evaluated the midfacial gingival margin changes, volumetric, radiographic and clinical alterations 1-year following immediate implant placement with customized healing abutment (IIP + CHA) either solely, or in combination with xenograft (IIP + Bonegraft) or with connective tissue grafting (IIP + CTG) at sites with thin labial bone in the esthetic zone. Thirty-nine non-restorable maxillary teeth indicated for extraction in the esthetic zone were included. Participants were randomly assigned into three equal group; IIP + Bonegraft (Control), IIP + CTG and IIP + CHA. Midfacial gingival margin changes(mm) as primary outcome, labial soft tissue contour change(mm), interdental tissue height changes and total volume(mm3) were assessed. Amount of bone labial to the implant and crestal bone level changes were also recorded. All outcomes were measured 1-year post-operative. The midfacial gingival margin changes demonstrated a significant difference (P ≤ 0.05) between the groups showing -0.98, -0.74 and -1.54mm in sites treated with IIP + Bone graft, IIP + CTG and IIP + CHA respectively after1-year. While labial soft tissue contour change (mm), total volume (mm3) and distal interdental tissue height changes (mm) revealed a significant difference after one-year between the studied groups, yet mesial interdental tissue height changes showed no difference (P > 0.05). Both IIP + Bone graft and IIP + CHA groups revealed a significant positive correlation between the total volume loss (mm3) after 1 year and mid-facial gingival margin changes (P ≤ 0.05). However, no significant correlation was observed in the IIP + CTG group (P = 0.63). CBCT measurements showed a significant difference in crestal bone changes between the three groups (P ≤ 0.05), yet, there was no significant difference regarding mean amount of bone labial to the implant(P > 0.05). This investigation suggests that the mere presence of CTG simultaneous with IIP in the anterior maxilla reduced the midfacial gingival margin alterations (mm), besides, CTG decreased the overall volume loss (mm3) by 5-folds compared to the other studied groups after one year. Meanwhile, using CHA alone with IIP failed to maintain the peri-implant soft tissues contour. The current trial was retrospectively registered at Clinical trials.gov (ID: NCT05975515, Date: 27-July-2023).

Soft Tissue Contours at Pontic Sites With or Without Soft Tissue Grafting-A 15-Year Follow-Up of a Controlled Clinical Study.

To report on soft tissue contour changes at pontic sites with or without soft tissue grafting over an observation period of 15 years. Fourteen patients received a fixed dental prosthesis (FDP) in the posterior zone in a controlled clinical study and were available at the 15-year follow-up. Eight patients received a subepithelial connective tissue graft in the pontic area (test) while six received the FDP without soft tissue grafting (control). Impressions were taken after FDP cementation and at 15 years. Casts were digitized and a profilometric analysis was performed (mean distance) and the pontic height (PH) and ridge width (RW) were analyzed at the mid-buccal area. A descriptive analysis and Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney test was performed (level of significance: 5%). Profilometric changes (mean distance) from baseline to 15 years amounted to -0.68 mm (test) and to -0.33 mm (control) (p = 0.208), 95% CI for group difference (0.290; -0.750). PH measured -0.47 mm (test) and 0.0 mm (control) (p = 0.079) and RW amounted to -1.05 mm (test) and -0.38 mm (control) (p = 0.138). Remodeling of the soft tissue contour at pontic sites of FDPs was evident in both groups, but slightly more accentuated following soft tissue grafting. This study is the first to report on soft tissue changes at pontic sites over more than 10 years. It investigates whether tissue contour changes with and without soft tissue grafting before the insertion of FDPs. Remodeling of the soft tissue contour at pontic sites was observed over 15 years, with more pronounced changes when soft tissues were augmented with SCTGs before FDP insertion. The volume loss at the augmented site must be considered in relation to the overall tissue changes over long periods. Connective tissue grafts reliably improve shape and esthetics around the pontic unit. Further long-term studies with more patients are needed to evaluate the initial gains and long-term performance of these augmentations.

The Efficacy of Leukocyte-Platelet-Rich Fibrin in Combination with Sub-Epithelial Connective Tissue Graft in Peri-Implant Soft Tissue Augmentation: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial

Aims and Background The aim of the current study is to assess and compare the efficacy of the leukocyte-platelet-rich fibrin [L-PRF] in combination with sub-epithelial connective tissue graft [SCTG] and SCTG only in promoting aesthetic results and strengthening the state of the soft tissue surrounding implants. Materials and Methods A parallel-arm randomized controlled clinical trial was used for this investigation. A total of 120 patients who had missing teeth with a thin gingival biotype [less than 1.5 mm] were included in this study. The patients of Group I were treated with PRF and SCTG during second-stage implant surgery, while the patients of Group II were treated with SCTG only. Treatment outcomes included the assessment of the width and thickness of the keratinized tissue at the baseline, 3 and 6 months postoperatively; pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines [IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-4] in the peri-implant crevicular fluid on the 1st, 7th and 30th days after surgical procedure; swabs from the surface of postoperative wounds of the mucous membrane on days 3, 5, 7, and 10; Pink aesthetic score [PES] 6 months after prosthesis placement; and laser Doppler flowmetry on days 1, 7, and 14 after augmentation. Results and Discussion Patients who received L-PRF+SCTG had a significant increase in keratinized tissue thickness [KTT] [p = 0.08] than those who received SCTG only [KTT 1.86 ± 0.17 Vs 1.48 ± 0.15] 6 months after surgery. The mean [±SD] of PES was found to be 13.1 [±0.02] for Group I and 11.3 [±0.08] for Group II. The cytology, LDF, and local immunoassay analysis demonstrated faster epithelialization and better revascularization in Group I. Conclusion The use of L-PRF and SCTG is an effective method in augmenting peri-implant soft tissue and improving gingival biotype and aesthetic outcomes, which would help overcome complications and increase patients’ satisfaction.

The Papilla Base CTG: A Novel Approach for Interdental Soft Tissue Reconstruction.

Impairment or loss of interdental papilla is a common issue in patients with periodontal disease, leading to phonetic, functional, and aesthetic concerns. Numerous techniques have been explored to reconstruct and regenerate interdental papillae, but consistent success remains challenging. This article presents a novel surgical approach that applies the principles of the Connective Tissue Graft (CTG) wall technique to enhance papilla volume when interdental clinical attachment loss is present in the aesthetic zone. The case of a 35-year-old woman with an RT3 recession defect associated with loss of interdental hard and soft tissues is discussed. The patient underwent a procedure involving palatal incisions, application of amelogenins, and a trapezoidal shape CTG fixed at the base of the papilla under a coronally advanced flap. This approach aimed to stabilize the blood clot and prevent soft tissue collapse into the defect area, enhancing the position and volume of the interdental papilla. Results at 6- and 12-months follow-up indicated significant improvement in papilla appearance and complete root coverage. This case suggests that the modified CTG wall technique can effectively treat buccal and interdental gingival recessions associated with horizontal or infrabony defects. Further clinical trials are necessary to confirm these findings and establish the most effective approach for interdental papilla reconstruction.

Partial-Full-Thickness Tunnel Technique and Supra-Crestal Sling Suture for Treatment of RT2 and RT3 Gingival Recessions: Technical Report with Two Cases.

The purpose of this technical report is to describe a modified tunnel surgical approach and connective tissue graft (CTG) stabilization technique for the treatment of gingival recessions with interproximal clinical attachment loss (ICAL). The partial-full-thickness (PFT) tunnel technique utilizes multiple vestibular incisions to facilitate creation of a split-mucoperiosteal tunnel that enhances tissue passivity and allows for coronal advancement of soft tissue with minimal tension. The supra-crestal sling (SCS) suture engages only the CTG, independent of the overlying tissue and stabilizes the CTG around the buccal and proximal root surfaces. The treatment approach of PFT tunnel preparation and CTG stabilization with the SCS suture was designed to optimize blood supply and maximize wound stability, resulting in complete root coverage with satisfactory clinical outcomes in RT2 and RT3 gingival recession. It is suggested that the PFT tunnel preparation with graft stabilization via the SCS suture has the potential to treat recessions with anatomical limitations associated with ICAL.

Augmentation with a combination epithelialized-subepithelial connective tissue graft

Augmentation with a combination epithelialized-subepithelial connective tissue graft

Qualitative somatosensory evaluation of recipient and donor sites of subepithelial connective tissue grafts: a preliminary study.

The subepithelial connective tissue graft (SCTG) plus coronal advanced flap is commonly evaluated by clinical parameters, but potential sensory changes (patients' perception of painful or painless sensations) need to be further explored. This preliminary study aimed to qualitatively evaluate the somatosensory profile of recipient and palatal donor sites of SCTG. Sensory tests were applied at SCTG recipient and donor sites at baseline, after 3 and 6 months. A single calibrated examiner applied Douleur Neuropathique 4 questionnaire (DN4), qualitative sensory test (QualST), discriminating the areas as hypersensitive, hyposensitive or normosensitive, and two-point acuity test. Descriptive statistics, non-parametric Kruskal Wallis test for QualST evaluation and ANOVA for Two-point test (p < 0.05) were used. QualST revealed that recipient areas presented no significant differences in tactile, pressure and thermal tests. Brush test revealed hyposensitivity after 3 months (p = 0.03). In donor areas, only thermal evaluation showed a significant difference (p = 0.01), being hypersensitive after 3 months and hyposensitive after 6 months. At baseline, all evaluations in recipient and donor areas were normosensitive. According to DN4, no patient reported pain in recipient and donor sites. Non-painful sensory perception was reported as numbness in recipient (3.14% of patients) and donor (18.4%) areas. No significant differences were found for two-point acuity test values. Somatosensory variations were observed in donor and recipient areas using qualitative tests, with no detection of painful sensations, only non-painful sensations of numbness and electric shock. This preliminary study demonstrated that alterations of hypo- and hypersensitivity may occur in donor and recipient areas of gingival grafts. However, when present, these alterations were non-painful and did not impact oral functions. ReBEC #RBR-7zz3b6p.

Gene Therapeutic Drug pCMV-VEGF165 Plasmid ('Neovasculgen') Promotes Gingiva Soft Tissue Augmentation in Rabbits.

Currently, an increasing number of patients are undergoing extensive surgeries to restore the mucosa of the gums in the area of recessions. The use of a connective tissue graft from the palate is the gold standard of such surgical treatment, but complications, especially in cases of extensive defects, have led to the development of approaches using xenogeneic collagen matrices and methods to stimulate their regenerative and vasculogenic potential. This study investigated the potential of a xenogeneic scaffold derived from porcine skin Mucoderm and injections of the pCMV-VEGF165 plasmid ('Neovasculgen') to enhance soft gingival tissue volume and vascularization in an experimental model in rabbits. In vitro studies demonstrated the biocompatibility of the matrix and plasmid with gingival mesenchymal stem cells, showing no toxic effects and supporting cell viability and metabolic activity. In the in vivo experiment, the combination of Mucoderm and the pCMV-VEGF165 plasmid (0.12 mg) synergistically promoted tissue proliferation and vascularization. The thickness of soft tissues at the implantation site significantly increased with the combined application (3257.8 ± 1093.5 µm). Meanwhile, in the control group, the thickness of the submucosa was 341.8 ± 65.6 µm, and after the implantation of only Mucoderm, the thickness of the submucosa was 2041.6 ± 496.8 µm. Furthermore, when using a combination of Mucoderm and the pCMV-VEGF165 plasmid, the density and diameter of blood vessels were notably augmented, with a mean value of 226.7 ± 45.9 per 1 mm2 of tissue, while in the control group, it was only 68.3 ± 17.2 per 1 mm2 of tissue. With the application of only Mucoderm, it was 131.7 ± 37.1 per 1 mm2 of tissue, and with only the pCMV-VEGF165 plasmid, it was 145 ± 37.82 per 1 mm2 of the sample. Thus, the use of the pCMV-VEGF165 plasmid ('Neovasculgen') in combination with the xenogeneic collagen matrix Mucoderm potentiated the pro-proliferative effect of the membrane and the pro-vascularization effect of the plasmid. These results indicate the promising potential of this innovative approach for clinical applications in regenerative medicine and dentistry.

Digital Planning and Designing of a Novel 3D-Printed CTG Palate Guide for Harvesting Subepithelial Connective Tissue Graft: A Case Report.

Digital Planning and Designing of a Novel 3D-Printed CTG Palate Guide for Harvesting Subepithelial Connective Tissue Graft: A Case Report.

Advancing Periodontal Care: Development of a Novel Collagen-Chitosan-Bioglass Scaffold as a Substitute for Autologous Soft Tissue Grafts.

Introduction Modern dentistry prioritizes aesthetic outcomes, making root coverage for gingival recession a key focus. Various approaches, including autologous grafts, address this issue, yet no substitute matches the properties of autogenous connective tissue grafts. The innovative collagen-chitosan-bioglass scaffold presents a promising solution, surpassing the limitations of the traditional methods. This scaffold blends the advantages of collagen with chitosan's antibacterial and regenerative properties, enhanced by bioglass, which promotes tissue healing through angiogenesis. It was evaluated for its physicochemical characteristics, as well as antioxidativeand anti-inflammatory properties, making it a promising solution for soft tissue management in dentistry. Materials and methods Chitosan, collagen, and bioglass were combined into a scaffold through the lyophilization process (freeze-drying). Chitosan was sourced from shrimp, collagen from bovine, and the bioglass 1% comprised 58% tetra-ethyl ortho silicate, 33% calcium silicate, and phosphorous pentoxide. After the scaffold was created, it was subjected to physicochemical characterization via scanning electron microscopic and infrared spectroscopic analysis. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidantproperties were evaluated using DPPH (2,2-diphenyl -1-picrylhydrazyl) assay and by measuring the scaffold's radical scavenging activity. Results This study employed infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy techniques to analyze the sample components and their morphology. The infrared (attenuated total reflection) analysis revealed various elements confirming the presence of all the biomaterials required to fabricate the scaffold. Scanning electron microscope imaging displayed a folded-like morphology with a porous structure. The protein denaturation inhibition increased from 25% at 50 μg of scaffold weight to 45% at 200 μg of scaffold weight. Similarly, the antioxidant activity increased, with values rising from 23% at 50μg to 35% at 200μg of scaffold weight. Conclusion The fabricatedcollagen-chitosan-bioglass scaffolddemonstrates promising antioxidant andanti-inflammatory properties. These findings suggest that this scaffold holds significant potential as a viable substitute for soft tissue augmentation.