Gingival recession is a common clinical condition that compromises both esthetics and periodontal health. Traditionally, autogenous soft tissue grafts—particularly subepithelial connective tissue grafts (SCTG)—have been considered the gold standard for root coverage procedures. However, the limitations of donor site morbidity, limited tissue availability, and patient discomfort have driven the search for alternative materials. In recent years, soft tissue substitutes (STS), including acellular dermal matrices, collagen-based scaffolds, and xenogeneic grafts, have emerged as promising solutions offering comparable clinical outcomes with reduced invasiveness.
This lecture explores the current evidence supporting the use of soft tissue substitutes in the treatment of gingival recession, emphasizing their clinical indications, biological rationale, and long-term outcomes. A comprehensive overview of key biomaterials, surgical techniques, and case selection criteria will be provided. Clinical cases will be presented to highlight practical considerations and outcomes in both single and multiple recession defects.
Attendees will gain insight into how soft tissue substitutes can enhance patient satisfaction, reduce surgical time, and offer predictable esthetic and functional results. The session aims to equip clinicians with an evidence-based approach to incorporating STS in periodontal plastic surgery, broadening treatment options beyond traditional grafting techniques.

Objectives:

– Differentiate between various types of soft tissue substitutes (e.g., collagen matrices, acellular dermal matrices) used in gingival recession coverage procedures.
– Identify appropriate clinical indications and patient selection criteria for the use of soft tissue substitutes versus autogenous grafts.
– Describe the biological principles and healing mechanisms associated with soft tissue substitute integration and root coverage.
– Evaluate the clinical outcomes of soft tissue substitutes based on current evidence, including root coverage percentage, keratinized tissue gain, and esthetic results.
– Demonstrate step-by-step surgical protocols and technique modifications for integrating soft tissue substitutes into minimally invasive periodontal plastic surgery.