Successful root coverage: a human histologic evaluation of a case.

Connective tissue grafts combined with pedicle grafts (subepithelial grafts) have been shown to be effective in obtaining root coverage. Unfortunately, little is known about the histology of the results in humans. This is a case report of a tooth with a recession defect that was treated with a subepithelial graft. Complete root coverage was obtained. However, at 5 months postoperative the tooth had to be extracted because of a vertical root fracture. With the patient's permission, a small collar of tissue was removed with the tooth. The sample was processed and evaluated histologically. The results revealed areas of regeneration, with new bone, cementum, and connective tissue attachment coronal to the original gingival margin. No bone grafts or guided tissue regeneration membranes were used. This case report confirms that regeneration is possible with subepithelial grafts.