Comparative Clinical Outcomes of Connective Tissue Graft Procedures Harvested from the Palate, Before and After Recipient Site Preparation: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Objectives: This study aimed to compare the root coverage outcomes of connective tissue grafts (CTG) harvested from the palate before and after recipient site preparation. Methods: Twenty single gingival recessions type 2 (RT2) at buccal sites of single-rooted teeth, randomized into two groups: graft harvested after (control) and before (test) site preparation. Clinical parameters and patient satisfaction were assessed at baseline and at three months, with follow-ups for complications at 1 week, 2 weeks, 1 month, and 3 months. Results: At three months, recession reduction was 2.2±1.1 mm (control) and 2.5±0.7 mm (test), with root coverage percentages of 82.0±32.0% and 90.5±30.1%, respectively. No significant differences were observed in clinical outcomes, complications, or patient satisfaction between the two approaches. Conclusions: These findings indicate that harvesting CTG prior to recipient site preparation can serve as a clinically effective and flexible alternative, especially in situations where anatomical limitations of the palate might complicate the traditional treatment sequence.