Gum Grafting
Gum recession is a very common condition that we see in our practice. The most common reasons for gum recession include aggressive brushing technique, use of a hard bristled brush, tooth malpositioning, and oral piercings. When gum recession is particularly severe, gum reconstruction using grafting techniques is generally recommended to keep the implicated tooth in good health.
When there is only minor recession, some healthy attached gingiva often remains and protects the tooth, so that no treatment other than modifying home care practices is necessary. However, when recession is severe and reaches the mucosa, there is the possibility of further recession and infection and consequently the health of the implicated tooth may be compromised.
In addition, gum recession often results in root sensitivity to hot and cold foods as well as an unsightly appearance of the gum and tooth. When significant, gum recession can predispose to worsening recession and expose the root surface, which is softer than enamel, leading to root caries and root gouging.
A gingival graft is designed to solve these problems and can be used in all areas of the mouth, whether it be the upper or lower teeth, front or back teeth and on the outside or inside surfaces. Gingival grafts can be used to repair gum recession on single or multiple adjacent teeth simultaneously.
SOFT TISSUE GRAFTING GALLERY
Soft tissue grafting conducted on a single front tooth
Soft tissue grafting conducted on a single back tooth
Soft tissue grafting conducted on multiple teeth
Soft tissue grafting conducted on inside tissue due to damage from oral piercing
In order to conduct a soft tissue graft 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 attached gingiva around the tooth. The gingival graft may be placed in such a way as to cover the exposed portion of the root.
The gingival graft procedure is highly predictable and results in a stable healthy band of attached tissue around the tooth.