Gum Grafts

Connective Tissue Grafting & Gum Grafts 

In addition to the development of pockets and bone loss, periodontal disease can cause the gums to recede, exposing the roots of the teeth. Unfortunately, as a tooth's root loses its overlying soft tissue, it becomes more vulnerable to decay, sensitivity, and additional bone loss. It's also worth mentioning that gum recession can also exact a toll on smile aesthetics, creating an unsightly smile line displaying varying amounts of uncovered root structure. While gum recession often results from periodontal disease, aggressive toothbrushing, and other habits can also wear away gum tissue.

Restoring gum health and appearance

The good news is that our office is here to help. By performing a gum graft procedure, also known as a "gingival graft or soft tissue graft," we can replace the soft tissue over the exposed area of the tooth and address the problems created by receding gums. A gum graft may be performed on a single tooth, multiple ones, or even around dental implants to improve periodontal health and aesthetics.

The three types of gum grafts include the following:

•Free gingival graft- This graft utilizes a small piece of tissue that is taken from the palate. It is often indicated when extra thick tissue is needed to prevent further recession.

•Pedicle graft- This type of graft is created from a flap of tissue that is adjacent to the area of the gum recession.

•Connective tissue graft- As commonly recommended and performed by our oral and maxillofacial surgeon, this type of graft offers an excellent way to significantly reduce gum recession and improve periodontal health while addressing tooth sensitivity, protecting against decay, and restoring a more aesthetically pleasing gum line. This minor surgical procedure involves harvesting the subepithelial tissue beneath a small flap of tissue retracted elsewhere in the mouth and then transplanting it to the grafting site where the gum recession has occurred. As healing progresses, the grafted connective tissue integrates with the surrounding gums to reestablish a more natural-looking and healthy gumline.