Mucogingival augmentation by connective tissue graft for the management of orthodontic-induced alveolar fenestration with soft-tissue deficiency: A multidisciplinary approach

Abstract

Developing alveolar bone defects is one of the reported complications of orthodontic teeth movement especially in the region of the incisors, which may pose a risk for teeth health and their long term prognosis. In this case report, a 15-year-old female patient with an ongoing orthodontic treatment presented with labially protruded apices of lower anterior teeth and thin overlying soft tissue which caused esthetic and functional concerns. A combined periodontal-orthodontic approach was carried out starting with soft-tissue augmentation using bilaminar technique with sub-epithelial connective tissue graft and single incision access flap, followed by orthodontic repositioning of teeth. The augmented site healed uneventfully, and thick soft-tissue coverage was evident which helped the camouflage of the defect area and allowed for the recommencement of orthodontic treatment. Hence, orthodontic-induced alveolar defects with mucogingival complications can be successfully managed through a multidisciplinary approach with stable results after 1 year.