Influence of Periodontal Parameters on Root Coverage: A Longitudinal Study.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of initial periodontal clinical parameters on the final outcome of the treatment of periodontal recessions by means of a coronally positioned flap (CPF).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The CPF technique was used in a total of 39 Miller Class I/II gingival recessions of the upper canines and/or premolars. The clinical periodontal parameters evaluated were: probing depth, gingival recession height, gingival recession width, keratinized mucosa, attached keratinized mucosa, flap thickness and free gingival margin thickness. The degree of root coverage was evaluated 6 months and 1 year after the surgery. The data were analyzed by Student's t-test, Mann-Whitney and Pearson's correlation tests, as well as linear regression.

RESULTS

A significant reduction in gingival recession height, gingival recession width, keratinized mucosa, and attached keratinized mucosa were observed. A significant negative correlation was found between gingival recession and root coverage percentage at 1 year, and a significant negative correlation between gingival margin thickness and coverage percentage at 1 year. The gingival recession and flap thickness significantly predicted the amount of root coverage.

CONCLUSIONS

The initial dimensions of gingival recession and the mucosa thickness were correlated to the percentage of root coverage. The gingival recession width was the major predictor of root coverage.