Before we address the alternatives to gum grafting, it is best to understand what the procedure is and why it might be considered necessary for you. Let us start with attempting to establish a value for your smile. Your smile is the backbone or foundation for your personality. It is essential in establishing your self-confidence and your self-esteem. Your smile displays who you are in either your personal or professional settings.
The visual perception of your smile begins with the condition of your teeth. We all appreciate the perfect set of teeth. Straight, white, with no flaws like chips or cracks. What you may not realize is the presentation of your teeth needs balance with healthy gums. Gum grafting has not only visual goals and objectives but health concerns too.
What are some Causes that Lead to Gum Grafting?
Gum recession is a common oral issue for everyone as we age. There can be a variety of reasons causing receding gums. The primary causes are periodontal or gum disease, smoking, diabetes, your genetics, and poor oral hygiene. Something as simple as brushing too aggressively with a stiff-bristled toothbrush can result in gums receding. Gum recession affects over 12% of the adult population. Not only does it change your smile, but it can cause health problems by exposing tooth roots leading to tooth loss.
The Gum Grafting Procedure
The primary source for the grafting tissue is the roof or palette of your mouth. There are several places your periodontist can go to remove some excess tissue to use for the gum graft. The tissue is then surgically attached to the gum area that needs treatment. The procedure results in both reducing bone loss and tooth sensitivity. It will also return your balanced smile.
Alternatives to Gum Grafting
The healing process can be uncomfortable after having gum grafting. You are advised to follow strict instructions as you must deal with the dressing in place. Several alternatives that can be considered are as follows:
- Scaling and Root Planing- If there is a buildup of damaging plaque and tartar on the roots it can be removed with scaling and planing. Once this harmful plaque is gone the health of the surrounding gum tissue will immediately improve and may naturally take care of some of the recession.
- Regeneration- A procedure that treats the root before anything is done with the soft tissue. A bone graft can be done first to stymie any bone loss prior to addressing the gums.
- Gum Contouring- A popular alternative to gum grafting when the gum recession is not too deep or too irregular. After applying a local anesthetic either a scalpel or a laser can be used to simply reshape the gumline. The benefit of using the laser is it cauterizes the incision immediately shortening the healing time. This method will also improve your smile.
- Pinhole Surgical Technique- Tiny holes are made in your gumline laparoscopically. This minimally invasive approach allows the loosening of the gum tissue so it can be moved backed to an appropriate position.
Take a minute to look at your smile, and also your gums. An examination and consultation are harmless.
