Gum Grafting
In periodontal disease, swollen unhealthy gums start to pull away from the teeth, often leading to gum recession, which can cause pain and sensitivity. Gum grafting can help restore the gum’s covering on teeth and reduce sensitivity.
Your gums are a very important part of maintaining oral health and keeping your teeth healthy. They protect the roots of your teeth by creating a seal around them. Keeping your gums healthy will help you avoid infections as well as gum recession, which can be caused by over-brushing, periodontal disease and bruxism (teeth grinding).
Regardless of the cause, gum recession can expose areas of your teeth that aren’t protected by enamel, causing pain and sensitivity. Because this allows bacteria to completely bypass the protective layers of teeth, gum recession can also cause greater tooth decay, which in turn can mean you’ll need root canals or extractions sooner. Additionally, gum recession can negatively impact your smile by making your teeth appear longer.
What Is Gum Grafting?
Procedure Overview
There are three main types of gum grafts: free gingival grafts, subepithelial connective tissue grafts and pedicle grafts. Free gingival grafts are taken from the surface of the soft palate, while subepithelial connective tissue grafts are taken from beneath a flap cut from the soft palate. Pedicle grafts use gum tissue from an area right next to the recession. Donor tissue may also be used.
Once the graft tissue has been retrieved, it is attached to the area where the gum has receded with sutures.
