Evaluation of mucosal scar characteristics after periodontal plastic surgery

Introduction Gingival recession is the most common mucogingival anomaly, as well as the most frequent periodontal plastic surgery indication. The surgical procedure and healing of the wound result in scar formation, which impacts oral soft tissue aesthetics. The aim of this study was to evaluate the characteristics of a postsurgical scar after gingival recession treatment using the mucosal scarring index (MSI). Material and methods In accordance with the MSI, ten standardized and calibrated photographs of the postsurgical site, taken 3-6 months following the surgical procedure, were analyzed. That included the evaluation of six parameters: scar appearance, scar length, suture marks, contour, color, and overall appearance. 30 professionals divided into the three groups conducted the scar analysis: 10 dental students (S), 10 periodontology and oral medicine residents (SS) and 10 periodontal specialists (SP). Results the average MSI values showed the following results: S: 3.63 ± 2.71, SS: 3.63 ± 2.83 and SP: 3.12 ± 2.75. There was no difference between the MSI values obtained in the three groups (p=0.544). Conclusion Due to the similar MSI values among all the groups, a conclusion may be drawn that by the application of this index, the aesthetic evaluation of the postsurgical scar after the gingival recession treatment can be done in a fast and simple way. Further research based on a larger sample and various surgical procedures is necessary in order to confirm these statements.