Gum Grafting
A tooth has two parts – the crown which we brush and see when we smile, and the root which is embedded in bone and covered in gum tissue. The gum also forms a tight seal or gasket around the root of the tooth protecting the underlying bone from bacteria in the mouth. When recession of the gum tissue occurs, the gum pulls away from the crown and the root surface becomes exposed. In addition, the body loses a natural defense against both bacterial penetration and trauma. When gum recession is a problem, gum reconstruction using grafting techniques is an option.
When there is only minor recession, some healthy gingiva often remains and protects the tooth, so that no treatment other than modifying home care practices is necessary. However, when recession progresses beyond the protective cuff and reaches the mucosa, the first line of defense against bacterial penetration is lost.
Gum recession can result in sensitivity to hot and cold foods, an unaesthetic appearance of the gum and tooth, it can predispose to worsening recession leading to root caries and root gouging.
A gingival graft is designed to solve these problems. A thin piece of tissue is taken from the roof of the mouth or gently moved over from adjacent areas to provide a stable band of thick protective gum around the tooth. The gingival graft may be placed in such a way as to cover the exposed portion of the root. In some instances, donor tissue can be employed as an alternative to using a patient’s own tissue, reducing a patient’s discomfort and their healing time.
The gingival graft procedure is predictable and results in a stable, healthy band of attached tissue around the tooth.
Click here to view Before & After of Soft Tissue Grafting Procedures