Laterally positioned flap with periosteal graft for the treatment of gingival recession, novel technique - A pilot study

Introduction: Periosteum is a highly vascular connective tissue sheath covering the external surface of all bones except sites of articulation and muscle attachment. Regenerative potential of periosteum is due to inner layer which contains mesenchymal progenitor cells. Laterally pedicle flap technique is frequently used for recession coverage in isolated, denuded roots that have adequate donor tissue laterally and vestibular depth. Pedicle flaps have been modified in past, this pilot study utilized the technique which included auto transplant of periosteum in combination with laterally positioned flap. Materials and methods: 20 teeth with gingival recession, Millers’s class 1 and 2 with ? 3 mm defect were included and laterally positioned flap with periosteal graft was performed. Results: After 12 months of follow up, a stable result was obtained and the pilot study revealed significant reduction in recession defect. There was a mean percentage of 95.6% for root coverage, 80% predictability for recession coverage. Conclusion: Laterally positioned flap with periosteal graft technique can successfully be clinically utilized for the treatment of gingival recession defects, with less trauma and good esthetic results.