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).

EDTA root conditioning is the use of EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid) on a tooth’s root surface to modify the outermost layer of dentin. It is most commonly used in periodontal (gum) procedures and in endodontics (root canal treatment) to help remove the “smear layer” left after instrumentation. In plain terms, it is a chemical “cleaning and preparation” step for root dentin. The goal is typically to improve how the root surface interacts with tissues or dental materials that follow.

root biomodification is the intentional conditioning of a tooth root surface to change how it interacts with gum tissues. It is most commonly discussed in periodontal (gum) therapy, especially when treating exposed roots or periodontal defects. The goal is to create a root surface that is more compatible with healing and reattachment of surrounding tissues. It is typically performed after mechanical cleaning of the root, such as scaling and root planing or during periodontal surgery.

root surface debridement is a periodontal (gum) procedure that removes plaque, biofilm, and hardened deposits from tooth roots. It is commonly performed for gum disease when deposits extend below the gumline. The goal is to help the gums heal and reattach more tightly to cleaner root surfaces. It is often discussed alongside “scaling and root planing,” though terms may be used differently by different clinicians.

PRP most commonly means **preventive resin placement** in restorative dentistry. It is a **minimal dental filling plus sealant** approach for early, small areas of decay in grooves of back teeth. Dentists use it most often on **premolars and molars**, where pits and fissures can trap plaque. It aims to **treat early damage and protect nearby grooves** at the same appointment.