MINIMALLY INVASIVE
The VISTA Approach
Vestibular Incision Subperiosteal Tunnel Access, a minimally invasive gum grafting technique that treats multiple recession sites in a single appointment.
Vestibular Incision Subperiosteal Tunnel Access, a minimally invasive gum grafting technique that treats multiple recession sites in a single appointment.
The VISTA approach, short for Vestibular Incision Subperiosteal Tunnel Access, is a minimally invasive technique for treating gum recession. A small incision is made in the gum, and a subperiosteal tunnel is created beneath the tissue.
That tunnel is filled with a tissue graft, either from the roof of the mouth or from a donor tissue bank, positioned carefully over the exposed roots and secured with sutures.
VISTA offers real advantages over traditional gum grafting, less discomfort, faster healing, and strong cosmetic results. Because it is minimally invasive, the risk of complications is reduced, and multiple recession sites can often be treated in a single appointment.
A single-visit, minimally invasive approach with strong long-term results.
One access incision can be used to address several adjacent areas of recession at once, restoring multiple teeth in a single appointment.
The subperiosteal tunnel keeps the pink triangles of gum between teeth intact, which preserves blood supply and aesthetic architecture.
The minimally invasive access, combined with careful graft placement, reduces post-operative discomfort compared with more traditional grafting techniques.
Preserving the surrounding vasculature supports faster, more reliable graft integration and long-term stability.
Connective tissue grafts, platelet-rich fibrin, or AlloDerm donor grafts can all be used through the VISTA access, chosen based on your tissue and goals.
Studies of the VISTA approach report high success rates for treating multiple teeth, with reported improvement in root coverage up to 94% at 18 months.
The VISTA approach is completed under local anesthesia, often in a single visit.
The teeth being treated are cleaned and the recession sites are prepared so the graft can integrate cleanly with the surrounding tissue.
A vertical access incision is made, usually in the frenum area, so the site can be reached without disturbing the gum between teeth.
A full-thickness tunnel is created to elevate the tissue, ensuring that the papillae between teeth remain intact and blood supply is preserved.
Grafting material, connective tissue, PRF, or AlloDerm, is inserted through the tunnel and positioned over the exposed roots.
The gingival margin is moved upward and secured with specialized sutures to maintain the new position while the graft heals.
The VISTA approach is particularly effective for treating multiple adjacent recession defects, delivering a reliable, stable outcome for both aesthetics and sensitivity.
As with any grafting procedure, long-term success depends on good daily hygiene, gentle brushing technique, and consistent preventive visits. Following our aftercare instructions closely is what protects the result.
We are honored you have chosen us for your periodontal care. At Coastal Periodontics, we believe every patient is unique, not just in dental needs but in values, past experiences, and treatment goals. Our team listens first, then designs a collaborative treatment plan around what matters to you. We pride ourselves on providing a calm, welcoming environment where every detail is handled with compassion. Our approach is grounded in a simple ideology: it is not about a procedure, it is about a long-term relationship. We stay active in continued education and in the community we serve.
Next Step
The VISTA approach is often ideal when several teeth need treatment at once, let us take a look.