Subepithelial connective tissue grafts (SCTG) are accepted as the gold standard in covering denuded root surfaces. Combining enamel matrix derivatives (EMD) with periodontoplasic surgical operations is another method in covering denuded root surface. The aim of this study is to compare a SCTG operation group and EMD applied group in addition to SCTG using complete root coverage rate and a newer method root coverage esthetic scoring system (RES).

Background: Subepithelial connective tissue grafts (SCTG) are accepted as the gold standard in covering denuded root surfaces. Combining enamel matrix derivatives (EMD) with periodontoplasic surgical operations is another method in covering denuded root surface. The aim of this study is to compare a SCTG operation group and EMD applied group in addition to SCTG using complete root coverage rate and a newer method root coverage esthetic scoring system (RES).

Methods: This is a split-mouth and controlled study. Thirthy-eight Class I or II gingival recession defects at canine teeth were treated in the control (SCTG) (n=19) and test groups (n=19) (SCTG+EMD). The root coverage esthetic score were evaluated by 2 blind periodontists 1 year after the treatment using RES. The agreement between the two periodontists was assessed by kappa analysis. Complete root coverage rate was evaluated for both groups. Two groups were compared with statistically methods in terms of RES parameters and gingival recession height /width.

Inclusion Criteria:

• The patient had no systemic disease, did not smoke cigarette and tobacco products, did not have a pregnancy and breastfeeding period, had class I and class II gingival recession according to the Miller gingival classification, had a recession depth of ≥2 mm, have not had a restoration and have had an operation in the relevant dental region that had no previous gingival surgical procedure were included in this study.

Exclusion Criteria:

• systemic disease
• multiple gingival recession
• miller class III and IV recessions were excluded