Surgical Techniques to Increase the Apicocoronal Dimension of the Attached Gingiva: A 1-Year Comparison Between the Free Gingival Graft and the Modified Apically Repositioned Flap

The attached gingiva is a desirable anatomical element for the maintenance of gingival health. The free gingival graft (FGG) and the modified apically repositioned flap (MARF) are predictable surgical techniques often employed to increase the zone of attached gingiva. This randomized study compared the FGG and the MARF in increasing the zone of attached gingiva in contralateral sides of 15 patients 1 year posttreatment. There was an increase in keratinized tissue and attached gingiva in both groups. Gingival recession did not significantly change between pre- and posttreatment levels in either group. The MARF surgical time was approximately half as long as that of the FGG. The authors conclude that both techniques are viable; however, the main advantages of the MARF were decreased surgical time and less postoperative discomfort.