This randomized controlled clinical study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of two different de-epithelialization techniques-extraoral scalpel and intraoral radiofrequency (RF)-used in the preparation of de-epithelialized connective tissue grafts (De-CTG) for the treatment of gingival recession. A total of 48 patients were randomly assigned into two groups, and all grafts were applied in combination with coronally advanced flap (CAF) surgery. Clinical and histological outcomes, including epithelial remnants, root coverage, keratinized tissue gain, surgical duration, and postoperative patient comfort, were assessed. The study seeks to identify a reliable, operator-independent method that minimizes epithelial remnants and improves clinical outcomes and patient experience.
Who can participate
Age range18 Years – 80 Years
SexALL
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Inclusion Criteria:
* Voluntary individuals aged between 18 and 80 years
* Systemically healthy
* Non-smokers
* Patients diagnosed with periodontal health following Phase I therapy, with reduced periodontium both clinically and radiographically
* Presence of Cairo RT I and RT II gingival recession defects involving maxillary and mandibular anterior and premolar teeth
* Presence of at least 1 mm of keratinized gingiva
* Individuals not using any medications that may affect periodontal tissue health or wound healing
* Absence of any pathology in the palatal mucosa that may interfere with the surgical procedure for connective tissue harvesting
Exclusion Criteria:
* Teeth with caries, non-carious cervical lesions, or restorations in the gingival recession area
* Teeth with endodontic pathology
* Pregnant or lactating women
* Patients with cardiac pacemakers
* Teeth where the cementoenamel junction cannot be clearly identified
* Individuals for whom the use of a radiofrequency device may pose a risk
* Use of antibiotics or immunosuppressive medications within the last 3 months