Gingival recession (GR) is a common oral health problem that causes sensitivity, esthetic concerns and hygiene problems. Successful root coverage can be achieved by various surgical techniques. The VISTA technique may overcome some of the limitations of other techniques and present equal results to techniques that are considered the "Gold Standard" in this area of periodontology. The objective of the research is to study the VISTA technique in terms of complete root coverage, % root coverage, gingival thickness gain, bleeding on probing, keratinized gingival width, PROMS, vestibular depth and esthetic results.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
TRIPLE
Enrollment
30
The VISTA (Vestibular Incision Subperiosteal Tunnel Access) technique is a minimally invasive surgical approach for root coverage. A single vertical incision is made, often at the labial frenulum for optimal access, reaching the periosteum to elevate a subperiosteal tunnel. This tunnel is extended beyond the mucogingival junction and interproximally under each papilla to enable tension-free coronal repositioning of the gingiva. An autologous connective tissue graft, harvested and de-epithelialized from the palate, is introduced into the tunnel. Before placement, teeth are etched (orthophosphoric or hydrofluoric acid depending on surface type). Sutures (6-0 polypropylene) stabilize the graft, with additional composite fixation on treated teeth. The vertical incision is closed using 5-0 sutures, ensuring proper stabilization and healing. This approach minimizes trauma, promotes healing, and achieves effective root coverage.
The Coronally Advanced Flap (CAF) is an effective technique for root coverage in single or multiple gingival recession cases with adequate apical keratinized tissue thickness and height. Following the De Sanctis and Zucchelli protocol (2007), two horizontal incisions are made 3 mm apart, with placement 1 mm apical to the recession height. Vertical beveled incisions extend into the alveolar mucosa, and a flap is elevated in three stages: partial thickness at the papilla, full thickness to the buccal bone table, and apical partial thickness to release muscle fibers for mobility. An autologous connective tissue graft (≥1 mm thick) is harvested from the palatal or retromolar area, de-epithelialized, and shaped to the recession size. The anatomical papillae are de-epithelialized, and the graft is sutured apically to the CEJ using 6-0 Polyglactin 910. Sling sutures (6-0 polypropylene) stabilize the flap 2 mm coronally to the CEJ, ensuring optimal positioning and healing.
Recession reduction (RR)
Measured with a periodontal probe and with a STL file
Time frame: 3 months and 6 months after the surgery
mean root coverage (% RC)
Measured with a periodontal probe and with a STL file
Time frame: 3 and 6 months after the surgery
PPD
distance from the gingival margin to the base of the gingival sulcus
Time frame: Baseline, 3 and 6 months after the surgery
CAL
distance from the LAC to the base of the gingival sulcus
Time frame: Baseline, 3 and 6 months after the surgery
KTW
distance from the gingival margin to the mucogingival line (MGL
Time frame: Baseline, 3 and 6 months after the surgery
Gingival thickness
Distance from the most external part of the gingiva to the buccal plate. Measured with a periodontal probe and with a STL file
Time frame: Baseline, 3 and 6 months after the surgery
Complete root coverage
Measured with a periodontal probe and with a STL file
Time frame: 3 and 6 months after the surgery
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.