Clinical evaluation of free connective tissue grafts used to increase the width of keratinised gingiva

Abstract Fourteen sites were chosen in eight subjects where pre‐operatively less than 2 mm of keratinised gingiva was present and associated with pocketing of less than 1.0 mm Three methods were used to provide gingival connective tissue for grafting which facilitated primary closure at the donor site. The pre‐operative width of keratinised gingiva was measured by means of a Williams probe from the gingival margin to the mucogingival junction to the nearest 0.5 mm. This was repeated immediately post‐operatively, and at 1, 2, 5, 10, and 12 weeks, and at 6 months. The results showed that a statistically significant increase in width of keratinised attached gingiva could be achieved with this method and the resultant tissue was histologically normal.