Increasing the amount of attached gingiva using a modified apically repositioned flap.

The purpose of this study is to describe a modification in the apically repositioned flap technique. Unlike the original technique, this technique preserves the marginal gingiva thus avoiding the risk of recession. It is recommended in cases where an increase in attached gingiva is desired. This study reports on the results of 54 single buccal areas consecutively treated in 38 healthy patients. The increase in the amount of attached gingiva, the impact on marginal tissue recession, and the impact on probing depth were analyzed. All 54 areas were evaluated at 8 weeks; 21 areas were analyzed for 24 weeks; and 19 areas for a period of 72 weeks. The final measurements were compared to baseline values. The analysis of variance of measurement (ANOVA) shows a significant increase of keratinized and attached gingiva (P <0.001). There was no statistical change in marginal tissue recession (P = 0.370) or probing depth. The results of this study demonstrate that this modification of the apically repositioned flap is effective and efficient for increasing the height of attached gingiva. This surgical procedure produces minor surgical trauma and does not require palatal donor tissue or membrane placement. It is simpler since it is less time-consuming, requires no suturing, and results in an ideal color match of tissue.