Palato-gingival groove and different treatment modalities

Abstract

Palato-gingival groove (PGG)/lingual radicular groove or distolingual groove is a morphological alteration of the teeth that may originate in the cingulum area and extend toward the periapex, reaching various depths of dental and periodontal tissues. It favors bacterial plaque invasion into periodontal tissues, creating significant bony defects that can lead to tooth loss. There are different modalities for treating PGG depending on the promptness of the diagnosis and the establishment of the most appropriate treatment plan. The objective of this case report was to illustrate different ways of treating PGG to avoid tooth extraction. Three adult patients were referred to treatment of upper lateral incisors, at different moments, with suggestions for extraction and implant placement. All patients received basic periodontal treatment, personalized oral hygiene instructions, and initial and re-evaluation periograms. After re-evaluation, it was possible to define the procedures to be performed: application of regenerative techniques and/or radiculoplasty. After 15 days, sutures were removed and patients were referred to their dentists, becoming part of our periodontal control and maintenance program. Thus, these cases illustrate different techniques and biomaterials to successfully treat PGG while avoiding tooth extraction.