Soft Tissue Grafting
A gum graft (also known as a gingival graft or periodontal plastic surgery) is a collective name for surgical periodontal procedures that aim to cover an exposed tooth root surface with grafted oral tissue. Exposed tooth roots are usually the result of gingival recession due to periodontal disease. Other common causes include overly aggressive brushing and trauma.
Types of Gum Grafting:
- Free Gingival Graft: A strip of tissue is removed from the roof of the mouth and stitched to the grafting site to promote natural growth. This type is used to thicken existing tissue.
- Connective Tissue Graft: Used for larger areas or root exposure, subepithelial tissue is removed from a small flap in the mouth and sutured to the site.
- Pedicle Graft: A flap of tissue from an adjacent gum is partially cut and moved to cover the exposed root, preserving blood vessels for quicker healing.
Reasons for Gum Grafting:
Gum grafting is a common periodontal procedure with excellent results. Benefits include:
- Reduced Sensitivity: When the tooth root becomes exposed, eating or drinking hot or cold foods can cause extreme sensitivity to the teeth. Gum grafting surgery permanently covers the exposed root, reduces discomfort, and restores the health of the gums.
- Improved Appearance: Gum recession and root exposure can make the teeth appear longer than normal and the smile to look “toothy.” Gum grafting can restore a more symmetrical and aesthetically pleasing smile.
- Improved Gum Health: Gum grafting can help halt tissue and bone loss, prevent further problems, and protect exposed roots from decay.
What Does Gum Grafting Treatment Involve?
Before gum grafting, the teeth will be thoroughly cleaned to remove calculus (tartar) and bacteria. The gum grafting procedure is usually performed under local anesthetic. The exact procedure depends on whether tissue is coming from the patient’s palate or a tissue bank. Small incisions are made at the recipient site to create a pocket for the graft, and a split-thickness incision is made to insert the graft. Sutures stabilize the graft. Healing typically takes about six weeks.
Benefits of Soft Tissue Grafting:
- Increased Comfort: Soft tissue grafts help cover exposed roots, reducing pain from hot or cold foods.
- Improved Aesthetics: Soft tissue grafting can re-augment the gums, improving the symmetry of your smile.
- Improved Gum Health: When used in combination with deep cleaning, soft tissue grafting helps protect exposed roots from further complications.
What Does Soft Tissue Grafting Treatment Involve?
Initially, deep cleaning will be performed above and below the gumline to remove tartar. The grafting procedure is performed under local anesthetic. A small incision is made at the recipient site, and a split-thickness incision is used to place the donor tissue. Healing typically occurs within six weeks.