Clinical Outcome of Free Gingival Grafting for Managing Localized Recession Type 1 (RTI): A Case Report

A Case Report

Abstract

Localized gingival recession in the mandibular anterior region presents a clinical challenge, particularly in the presence of a shallow vestibule, high frenum attachment, and inadequate keratinized tissue. Achieving long-term soft tissue stability in such cases requires careful selection of the surgical approach. A 38-year-old female patient presented with a localized recession type I (RTI) affecting the mandibular left central incisor, associated with a thin gingival phenotype, high labial frenum attachment, and limited keratinized tissue. A free gingival graft (FGG) was selected to augment the keratinized tissue and deepen the vestibule rather than focusing solely on root coverage. Clinical evaluation demonstrated an increase in the width of keratinized tissue from 1 mm at baseline to 4 mm postoperatively. Gingival recession depth was reduced from 3 mm to 0.4 mm. These outcomes remained stable at one- and three-year follow-up examinations, with satisfactory graft integration and tissue maturation.  Within the limitations of this case report, free gingival grafting proved to be a predictable and stable treatment option for managing localized RTI recession in the mandibular anterior region when the primary treatment goal is keratinized tissue augmentation and vestibular deepening