Lack of Keratinized Gingiva

This split-mouth randomized controlled clinical trial will test whether a ready-to-use collagen membrane (Star Matrix) can widen the protective band of gum tissue (keratinized gingiva) as effectively as the standard free gingival graft harvested from the palate. Central question Can Star Matrix provide the same or better gain in keratinized tissue width-with less patient discomfort and chair-time-than an autogenous graft? Primary objectives Compare the 6-month increase in keratinized tissue width between Star Matrix and autogenous graft sites. Assess patient-reported pain and morbidity associated with each treatment. Secondary objectives Measure operative time, early healing scores, esthetic outcomes, and (optional) histologic quality of the regenerated tissue. Methods Twelve adults with ≤ 2 mm keratinized tissue on contralateral lower-jaw teeth will be enrolled. Each participant receives Star Matrix on one side and a conventional free gingival graft on the other. Follow-up visits at 2, 4, 8, 12 and 24 weeks include clinical measurements, standardized photographs, and a 7-day postoperative pain diary. An optional 2 mm punch biopsy at 6 months is analyzed microscopically.

Free gingival graft is a mucogingival surgical technique applied to increase keratinized gingival width and reduce gingival recession. Free gingival graft is one of the most widely used approaches in root closure treatments and in increasing the height of the keratinized gingiva. Evaluation of the effect of the amount of creeping attachment on the root surface caused by the free gingival grafts placed coronally and apical to the mucogingival line on the gingival recession in the mandibular anterior region with keratinized gingival deficiency with gingival recession. Forty patients with gingival recession and insufficient keratinized gingival height will be randomly divided into 2 main groups as free gingival grafts to be placed coronal and apical to the gingival recession.