Free gingival grafts using a CO2 laser: results of a clinical study.

Free gingival grafts are a reliable method for treatment of gingival recessions: An autograft is taken from the palate as replacement for the lost keratinized gingiva. A technique using the CO2 laser and results from a clinical study are presented. The receptor beds for 23 free gingival grafts were prepared with a CO2 laser. After a trapezoid incision in the epithelium, the connective tissue fibers were cut parallel to the periosteum avoiding coagulation of this delicate tissue. The grafts from the palate were taken conventionally. In all cases wound healing and incorporation of the grafts were good; no delay could be seen. Controls after 1 year revealed good results of the treatment. The CO2 laser can be useful for the free gingival graft procedure. Good hemostasis and low mechanical stress of the receptor bed can be achieved without affecting wound healing or incorporation of the delicate free gingival grafts.