A Novel Surgical Approach to Modify the Periodontal Phenotype for the Prevention of Mucogingival Complications Related to Orthodontic Treatment

Certain bone morphologies and soft tissue thickness (ie, phenotype) are considered to be risk factors for the development of gingival recessions following orthodontic tooth movement. Preoperative evaluation of the periodontal phenotype, in the frame of orthodontic treatment plan, identify teeth at high risk for mucogingival complications related to orthodontic therapy. The new surgical technique is illustrated in a clinical case. A patient with a thin phenotype without visible gingival recession had bone dehiscences in the anterior mandible. Prior to orthodontic treatment, simultaneous bone and soft tissue augmentation was performed using the combination of a highly cross-linked ribose porcine type I collagen membrane and a subepithelial palatal connective tissue graft. Two years after augmentation surgery and initiation of orthodontic treatment, a thick buccal tissue with a wide band of attached gingiva was observed without any clinical signs of root prominences, indicating a substantial change in periodontal phenotype. The clinical findings were corroborated by the 3D analysis, demonstrating substantial bone apposition on the buccal aspect of all roots in the treated area. The described surgical technique offers a valuable approach for regenerating hard and soft tissues in deficient areas prior to orthodontic therapy, thus preventing the development of gingival recessions.