Fourteen sites were chosen in eight subjects where pre‐operatively less than 2 mm of keratinised gingiva was present and associated with pocketing of less than 1.0 mm Three methods were used to provide gingival connective tissue for grafting which facilitated primary closure at the donor site. The pre‐operative width of keratinised gingiva was measured by means of a Williams probe from the gingival margin to the mucogingival junction to the nearest 0.5 mm. This was repeated immediately post‐operatively, and at 1, 2, 5, 10, and 12 weeks, and at 6 months. The results showed that a statistically significant increase in width of keratinised attached gingiva could be achieved with this method and the resultant tissue was histologically normal.

The incidence and distribution of alveolar fenestrations and dehiscences and their association with root prominence and occlusal faceting were investigated in 87 dry Bedouin jaws derived from the region of the southern Negev. Fenestrations were most frequently found in maxillary molars and canines and mandibular canines and lateral incisors. Dehiscences were most consistently observed in mandibular canines and first premolars. Maxillary fenestrations were consistently found in the apical half of the root length as were 60% of mandibular fenestrations.

Complete wound closure over an immediate implant is considered to be a desirable goal. This case report describes for the first time the use of a connective tissue autograft placed under the existing flap margins of an extraction socket to successfully achieve closure over an immediate implant covered with an occlusive membrane. The rationale of the method is described. Healing was uneventful and epithelization of the graft surface from surrounding tissues was achieved. This technique created an increased width of keratinized tissue and avoided the need to disrupt the normal anatomical relationships of the surrounding buccal tissues, in contrast to current techniques. The advantages of the technique, together with factors that may influence healing and predictability, are discussed.

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