Impact of Microneedling on Coverage of RT1 Gingival Recession in Thin Phenotype.

Gingival recession (GR) is defined as the migration of the marginal tissue toward the apical of the cementoenamel junction. It is one of the most common mucogingival deformities requiring surgical correction. The rationale for treating buccal recessions are mainly aesthetic concerns, and clinical situations where unfavourable contour of the gingival margin might be an obstacle for proper plaque control. GRs are of 3 types with reference to interdental clinical attachment loss as Recession Type (RT) RT1, RT2 and RT3. Mid-buccal GRs have root coverage potential through periodontal plastic surgery procedures. Coronally positioned flap (CAF) is a simple and predictable treatment of gingival recession defects. It has been observed that a flap thickness of > 0.8 mm results in a covered root surface of 100%, whereas a flap thickness of < 0.8 mm results in partial root coverage in CAF procedure. Microneedling (MN), creates microinjuries that result in minimal superficial bleedings and create a wound-healing cascade from which various growth factors are released. MN as opposed to Connective Tissue Grafts is a non-surgical approach to increase gingival thickness, that results in significant changes in the Gingival Thickness of individuals with thin gingival phenotype.

Inclusion criteria

• Presence of isolated Recession Type 1 buccal maxillary gingival recessions in esthetic zone including maxillary central incisors, lateral incisors and canines associated with esthetic complaints and/or dental sensitivity and otherwise systemically healthy.
• Gingival Recession ≥2mm and clinically identifiable CEJ
• Age 20years-50 years
• Patient demonstrating compliance for maintaining good oral hygiene after Phase 1 therapy Plaque index (PI) <1, Gingival Index (GI) <1
• Providing a written and verbal informed consent.

Exclusion criteria

• Patient with systemic disease that can influence the outcome of therapy.
• Pregnant females or on oral contraceptive pills or hormone replacement therapy.
• Smokers and patients undergoing orthodontic therapy
• Physically and mentally impaired patients.
• Non vital, malpositioned tooth
• Presence of cervical abrasions or restorations in the area
• Previous history of periodontal surgery on the involved sites.