Lingual incision subperiosteal tunnel access: proof of concept 18-month follow-up

INTRODUCTION: Gingival recession is a common manifestation in most populations. The mechanism by which gingival recession occurs is not well understood but it seems to be complex and multifactorial. The main etiological factors are the accumulation of dental plaque biofilm with the resulting inflammatory periodontal diseases and mechanical trauma due to faulty oral hygiene technique, especially in thin biotypes. CASE PRESENTATION: This case report describes the treatment of lingual recessions associated with bone loss, with a lingual incision subperiosteal tunnel access (LISTA) technique associated with a connective tissue graft. Nine months after the surgery, clinically significant root coverage and increased thickness of keratinized tissue were achieved; the patient was observed at 9, 12, and 18 months. CONCLUSION: The clinical results, although without 100% root coverage, satisfied the patient entirely. LISTA technique associated with a connective tissue graft is a promising alternative for minimally invasive treatment of multiple lingual gingival recessions.