Labial piercing and localized periodontal destruction - partial periodontal regeneration following periodontal debridement and free gingival graft

Localized periodontal destruction has been reported as a rare complication of intraoral piercings. The purpose of this case report was to illustrate the destructive nature of a lip stud and to describe the successful treatment of this case. The lip stud was removed and supra- and subgingival debridement was performed. Because of a shallow vestibule, the absence of keratinized gingiva, and the strong frenulum insertion at the gingival margins, a free gingival graft was placed. Subsequently the patient demonstrated a significant amount of osseous regeneration and partial coverage of the recession, which has been clinically and radiographically (computed tomography) documented.