Gum grafting, a common procedure in periodontics, involves taking tissue from one area of the mouth (usually the roof of the mouth) and transplanting it to areas where gum recession has occurred. Gum recession can lead to exposed tooth roots, sensitivity, and an increased risk of decay and tooth loss. Gum grafts cover these exposed areas, preventing further recession, improving the smile's aesthetics, and reducing sensitivity.
There are different types of gum grafts, including connective tissue grafts, free gingival grafts, and pedicle grafts, each tailored to the patient's specific needs. The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, and healing may take several weeks. Gum grafts are an effective way to restore gum tissue health and enhance overall oral health.
When Is Gum Grafting Recommended?
Tooth Sensitivity
As gum tissue recedes, the underlying tooth roots become exposed. Unlike the crown of the tooth, which is covered by protective enamel, the roots are more porous and sensitive to external stimuli. Consequently, individuals with gum recession often experience heightened sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures and discomfort when consuming acidic or sweet foods and beverages.
Increased Risk of Decay
The exposed tooth roots lack the robust enamel layer that shields the crown from decay-causing bacteria and acids. Consequently, individuals with receding gums are at a heightened risk of developing dental caries (cavities) on the exposed root surfaces. Left untreated, these cavities can progress rapidly, leading to further deterioration of the tooth structure and potential tooth loss.
Gum Disease Progression
Gum recession is frequently associated with periodontal (gum) disease, a bacterial infection that targets the supporting structures of the teeth, including the gums and bone. As the gums recede, pockets form between the teeth and gums, providing an ideal environment for bacterial proliferation. Gum disease can progress without intervention, causing further gum tissue loss, bone deterioration, and eventual tooth loss. Contact us today to learn more!
Compromised Aesthetics
Beyond the functional implications, gum recession can also detract from the smile's appearance. Exposed tooth roots, elongated teeth, and an uneven gumline can impact self-confidence and social interactions, decreasing quality of life for affected individuals.
Altered Bite and Tooth Alignment
In severe cases of gum recession, the stability of the teeth may be compromised, leading to changes in the bite and tooth alignment. Teeth may appear more elongated or spaced apart, affecting the overall harmony of the smile and potentially impacting chewing function. Call us to learn more.
Types of Gum Grafts
Connective Tissue Grafts
Connective tissue grafts involve harvesting tissue from the subepithelial connective tissue layer of the palate.
Benefits:
- The connective tissue contains numerous blood vessels, facilitating rapid healing and integration at the recipient site.
- Connective tissue grafts provide natural-looking results, with the transplanted tissue blending in seamlessly with the surrounding gum tissue.
- This type of graft is suitable for treating moderate to severe gum recession and can be used in conjunction with other procedures, such as dental implants.
Free Gingival Grafts
Free gingival grafts involve harvesting tissue directly from the surface of the palate.
Benefits:
- Free gingival grafts provide a thicker tissue graft than connective tissue grafts, making them suitable for cases where additional gum thickness is needed.
- The graft tissue forms a resilient barrier, protecting the underlying tooth roots and reducing the risk of further recession.
- Free gingival grafts offer predictable results and are particularly effective in treating areas with thin or fragile gum tissue.
Pedicle Grafts
Pedicle grafts utilize adjacent gum tissue to cover the exposed root surfaces.
Benefits:
- Since the graft tissue is sourced from within the mouth, it does not need to be harvested from the palate or other areas.
- The pedicle graft retains its blood supply from the adjacent tissue, promoting rapid healing and integration.
- Patients typically experience less discomfort and faster recovery compared to procedures involving tissue harvesting from distant donor sites.
The Gum Grafting Procedure
Before the procedure, our periodontist in Cajon, CA, conducts a comprehensive evaluation to assess the extent of gum recession, identify potential donor sites for tissue grafting, and discuss treatment goals and expectations with the patient. Diagnostic tools such as X-rays may be used to evaluate the condition of the teeth and surrounding structures.
Local anesthesia is administered to numb the areas of the mouth involved in the grafting process to ensure patient comfort during the procedure. In some cases, sedation options may be available for patients who experience dental anxiety or require more extensive procedures.
Depending on the type of gum graft selected, tissue may be harvested from the palate (roof of the mouth) or other donor sites within the oral cavity. The periodontist carefully removes a small piece of tissue, preserving the blood supply and integrity of the graft.
The recipient site, where the gum tissue will be transplanted, is prepared by making small incisions along the gumline to create a space for the graft. Any existing diseased or damaged tissue may be removed to promote optimal healing and integration of the graft.
The harvested tissue graft is then carefully positioned over the exposed root surfaces, covering the areas of gum recession. Our periodontist at Ali Haeri D.M.D., M.H.S. ensures proper alignment and adaptation of the graft to the surrounding gum tissue to achieve optimal esthetic and functional results.
The graft is secured in place using sutures (stitches), which may be either dissolvable or require removal at a later appointment. The sutures help hold the graft in position during the initial healing phase and promote tissue integration with the surrounding gum tissue.
After the procedure, patients receive detailed instructions on post-operative care and hygiene practices to facilitate optimal healing and reduce the risk of complications. This may include recommendations for pain management, dietary modifications, and oral hygiene techniques.
Gum grafts are a valuable tool in treating gum recession, offering a reliable solution for restoring gum health and enhancing the smile's aesthetics. Visit Ali Haeri D.M.D., M.H.S. at 1297 W Main St., Suite A, El Cajon, CA 92020-4135, or call (619) 579-0505 to learn more.