The tunnel technique is a minimally invasive way to treat certain cavities between back teeth. A dentist creates a small access “tunnel” from the biting surface to reach decay on the side of the tooth. It is commonly discussed in restorative dentistry for selected proximal (between-teeth) lesions in premolars and molars. The goal is to preserve more natural tooth structure—especially the marginal ridge (the edge of enamel next to the neighboring tooth).

A pedicle graft is a gum (gingival) tissue graft that stays attached at one end so it keeps its blood supply. It is most commonly used in periodontal plastic surgery to cover exposed tooth roots from gum recession. Because the tissue remains “connected,” it is moved (repositioned) from a nearby area to the area needing coverage. It may be used to improve gum thickness, gum shape, and the appearance of the gumline in selected cases.

A subepithelial connective tissue graft is a gum (soft tissue) graft that uses connective tissue placed under the surface gum layer. It is most often taken from the palate (roof of the mouth) and transferred to a thinner or recessed gum area. It is commonly used to cover exposed tooth roots and to thicken gum tissue around teeth or implants. It is a periodontal plastic surgery technique designed to improve soft tissue volume and tissue stability.

CTG is a term you may see in dental notes or product discussions referring to a tooth-colored, resin-based restorative material used in adhesive dentistry. In many settings, CTG is used as shorthand for a light-cured composite material placed directly into a tooth to repair or protect it. It is commonly used for small restorations, sealing pits and fissures, and conservative repairs around existing dental work. The exact meaning of CTG can vary by clinician and case, so it is sometimes clarified by the brand name or the specific composite type (for example, “flowable” or “injectable”).

A connective tissue graft is a periodontal (gum) procedure that adds tissue to an area with thin or receding gums. The graft tissue is most often taken from the roof of the mouth or from a processed donor material, depending on the case. It is commonly used to cover exposed tooth roots and to thicken gum tissue around teeth or dental implants. The goal is typically to improve tissue stability, comfort, and appearance in a localized area.

FGG is a shorthand some dental teams use to refer to a flowable, light-cured tooth-colored filling material used in restorative dentistry. It is commonly discussed alongside “flowable composite” and may appear in clinical notes or product lists. FGG is typically used in small restorations, as a liner/base under another composite, or for sealing and minor repairs. The exact meaning of FGG can vary by clinician, clinic, and manufacturer terminology.

A free gingival graft is a periodontal (gum) surgical procedure that moves a small piece of gum tissue to a different site in the mouth. It is most often used to increase the amount of firm, “attached” gum around teeth or dental implants. The graft tissue is commonly taken from the roof of the mouth (palate) and placed where gum thickness or width is limited. The goal is typically to improve tissue stability and make the area easier to keep clean.

soft tissue grafting is a dental surgical procedure that adds or repositions gum tissue in the mouth. It is commonly used to manage gum recession and to increase the thickness of soft tissue around teeth or implants. The tissue may come from the patient (often the palate) or from a processed donor material. It is usually performed in periodontics (gum specialty care) and implant dentistry.

periodontal plastic surgery is a set of periodontal (gum) procedures focused on reshaping or rebuilding the gum and nearby soft tissues. It is commonly used to manage gum recession, improve tissue thickness, and refine the gumline appearance. It can also be used around teeth or dental implants to improve tissue stability and function. The goal is usually healthier, easier-to-clean, and more comfortable soft tissue—often with an esthetic benefit.

mucogingival surgery is a group of periodontal (gum) procedures focused on the relationship between the gums and the oral mucosa. It is commonly used to manage gum recession, increase or reshape gum tissue, and improve soft-tissue stability around teeth or implants. The goal is often to create healthier, more maintainable gum margins and reduce symptoms like root sensitivity. It is typically performed by general dentists with surgical training or by periodontists (gum specialists).