Gum recession often results in root sensitivity to hot/cold beverages and spicy foods. If left untreated, additional gum recession may occur. Subepithelial Connective Tissue Graft is a surgical procedure designed to regenerate the missing gingiva and covers the exposed root surface. Multiple gum recessions can be corrected with one surgery. This procedure typically consists of two operating areas, 1) donor site, and 2) recipient site.
Donor Site
Patient’s own palate
A thin tissue is obtained from the roof of patient’s mouth. It is completely compatible with patient. This type of tissue has been extensively documented to provide excellent results with long-term stability. Due to limited palatal area, the amount of harvested tissue (tissue size) is sufficient to cover one to two root surfaces.
Platelets Rich Fibrin (PRF)
Platelets Rich Fiber is derived from the patient’s own blood. It is a safe and natural process requiring only a small quantity of blood. The entire process takes no more than 5 minutes and is completed in the office just prior to the surgery. The blood is drawn and placed in centrifuge to concentrate platelets with corresponding fibrin gel. Multiple processing protocols have been utilized to form different type of platelet concentrates. The PRF contains many growth factors to help stimulate your body’s natural healing process and promotes soft tissue healing. Growing number of studies demonstrate PRF is a viable material for tissue grafting. Dr. Wang usually combines patient’s own palatal tissue and PRF when treating multiple gingival recessions.
The following diagrams are illustration of the Subepithelial Connective Tissue Graft Procedure.
