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The gingiva is a part of the masticatory mucosa that covers the alveolar process and surrounds the cervical portion of teeth, being composed of free or marginal gingiva and attached gingiva, both constituted by keratinized mucosa. Gingival recession is one of the most common mucogingival defects and is characterized by apical positioning of the margin in relation to the cementoenamel junction and root exposure. The symptoms related to their presence may be manifested by root hypersensitivity (especially triggered by thermal or contact stimuli) and also by gingival sensitivity to toothbrushing and mastication, especially when the marginal tissue is composed of alveolar mucosa (BORGUETTI et al., 2002). Its etiology is considered multifactorial, and the anatomic aspect is fundamental. The early diagnosis is important for both prevention and treatment (GORMAN & O'LEARY, 1967).Periodontal plastic surgeries should be considered in cases of progressive recession. Thus, several surgical techniques have been developed to correct these defects (CASATI et al., 2001). This paper presents the semilunar flap technique with coronal positioning and its advantages for treatment of these buccal and proximal gingival defects.It was concluded that the success of treatment is based on its etiology and proper surgical planning, and the results achieved were satisfactory according to the criteria for evaluation of mucogingival surgeries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]