Abstract
We report a case in which a series of connective tissue grafts were used to functionally and esthetically augment an alveolar ridge defect in the maxillary incisor area, which was subsequently treated with a fixed prosthesis. A 54-year-old woman presented with the chief complaint of gingival swelling in the maxillary anterior region. A significant gingival defect was observed, possibly due to the extraction of tooth #11 with a hopeless prognosis. The defect was classified as Seibert Class I, and was causing a psychologically negative effect on the patient. Correction of this deformity was necessary in order to place an appropriate fixed prosthesis. Periodontal plastic surgery employing a connective tissue graft was performed, although the initial outcome was not optimal. A total of four consecutive gingival augmentations were performed in order to obtain a better functional outcome and patient satisfaction. The clinical condition remained uneventful during the one year maintenance period. In Japan, the need for gingival augmentation is not yet so overt. However, demands for esthetic reconstruction and ease of maintenance care are growing. Although gingival augmentation is an important modality for long-term stability of the periodontal environment, appropriate diagnosis and treatment planning aimed at a clear treatment outcome are necessary. Nihon Shishubyo Gakkai Kaishi (J Jpn Soc Periodontol) 56(2)：209-216, 2014.
