Guided Tissue Regeneration To Treat Mucogingival Defects Using A Collagen Sponge As A Space-Filler Material For Cell Proliferation: Clinical Case Reports With Long-Term Follow-Up

Introduction: Guided tissue regeneration (GTR) protocols for root coverage have proposed space-filler artifacts to create an area between the membrane and the root surface to provide adequate space for cell migration. Extensive instrumentation of the root to obtain a concave shape, suturing of the membrane to keep it convex, or the use of titanium-reinforced membranes are some of the most common techniques for creating the space needed for regeneration. The primary objective of these case reports is to show the clinical application of collagen sponge as a space-filler material in cases in which GTR procedures were used to treat marginal tissue recession.Case Presentation: These case reports describe the results obtained with root-coverage procedures of a Miller Class I defect on the buccal surface of tooth #11 in two patients. Bioabsorbable polyglactin 910 and non-absorbable expanded polytetrafluoroethylene barrier membranes were used along with a collagen sponge interposed on the root surface. It should be emphasized that the use of the collagen sponge was to create a biologic space and thereby induce cellular proliferation at the site of the recession. Three years after surgery, the treated areas showed complete root coverage with an increase of keratinized and attached gingiva with appropriate contour and thickness.Conclusion: These results demonstrate the possibility of using a collagen sponge as a space-filler material in cases in which the principles of GTR are used in the successful treatment of root recession.