Gum grafting
Gum grafting is an oral surgery that reinforces areas of the gum tissue that have receded. Gum recession affects 4-12% of adults and may go unnoticed until it becomes severe since it’s a gradual process. The exposed roots can be an aesthetic concern for patients, but they’re also sensitive and vulnerable to decay. Gum grafting gives those teeth back the protection they need.
Common Causes of Gum Recession
- Periodontal (Gum) Disease
- Aggressive Tooth Brushing
- Poor Oral Hygiene: Genetics
- Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)
- Misaligned Teeth or Bite Issues
- Tobacco Use
- Hormonal Changes
- Trauma or Injury: Piercings
- Medical Conditions
How Does Gum Grafting Work?
Evaluation: Before the procedure, your dentist or periodontist will thoroughly examine your oral health to determine the extent of gum recession and assess the best approach for grafting.
Preparation: The dentist will numb the areas involved to ensure you are comfortable during the procedure. They may also administer a sedative to help you relax.
Graft Material Selection: There are different types of graft materials that can be used, including:
Autografts: Tissue taken from another area in your mouth.
Allografts: Donor tissue from another person.
Xenografts: Tissue from animals.
Synthetic grafts: Lab-produced materials.
Grafting Techniques: There are several techniques used for gum grafting, and the choice depends on the specific situation. Common methods include:
Connective Tissue Graft: This involves taking a small piece of tissue from the roof of your mouth and attaching it to the area with gum recession.
Free Gingival Graft: Similar to the connective tissue graft, but a small piece of tissue is taken directly from the roof of the mouth.
Pedicle Graft: In this technique, a flap of tissue is partially cut from the gum near the affected area and then moved over to cover the exposed roots.
Graft Placement: The selected graft material is placed and secured over the exposed roots. This new tissue provides a protective covering and helps to regenerate gum tissue.
Suturing: The graft is secured in place with sutures (stitches). These sutures may need to remain in place for a week or two while the graft heals and integrates with the existing gum tissue.
Post-Operative Care: After the procedure, your dentist will provide instructions for post-operative care, which may include specific oral hygiene practices, dietary restrictions, and follow-up appointments to monitor the healing process.
Healing: Over time, the grafted tissue should integrate with the existing gum tissue, effectively covering the exposed roots and preventing further recession.