Evaluation of root coverage procedures using root coverage esthetic score system – A case series

Abstract

Background: Gingival recession, characterized by root surface exposure due to apical gingival margin migration, is a prevalent condition in the general populace, frequently prompting patient intervention. Mucogingival therapy may be indicated for recession control, plaque management, and dentin hypersensitivity; nevertheless, the consideration of esthetics correction as a therapeutic rationale is increasingly significant in contemporary clinical practice. Objective: The goal of this case series was to evaluate the most esthetic root coverage procedure of the three procedures performed. Methods: Patients with localized recession were treated with three different root coverage procedures, namely the free gingival graft (FGG), connective tissue graft + coronally repositioned flap (CTG + CAF), and platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) + coronally positioned flap. The root coverage procedures were assessed for the root coverage esthetic score (RES) system after 6 months. The RES scores of these procedures were compared to determine if one procedure offered a greater esthetic result over the other. Results: All three procedures were effective in obtaining root coverage and improved clinical parameters. However, CTG with CAF, along with complete root coverage (CRC), produced a better esthetic outcome than other root coverage procedures compared in this case series. The success of root coverage procedures is based on the overall esthetic outcome along with CRC. Thus through the incorporation of the RES into everyday clinical practice, clinicians can enhance the accuracy and consistency of their evaluations, leading to improved patient care and optimizing treatment planning.