Periodontal gum grafting is an oral health procedure that involves the use of healthy tissue to repair the gums of a patient. Often, this is done to treat a receding gumline and cover the root of the tooth. There are a lot of health benefits to a gum grafting procedure, along with aesthetic ones.
Below is more information about gum grafting and what methods may be available.
Subepithelial Connective Tissue Graft
A subepithelial connective tissue graft involves taking connective tissue from under a flap of skin from the roof of your mouth and stitching that skin to the tissue around the exposed root. A subepithelial connective tissue graft does not include the outer layer of skin (epithelium).
Subepithelial Connective Tissue Graft Versus Free Gingival Graft
Often, connective tissue grafting is compared to free gingival grafting.
Free gingival grafting (FGG) is a graft that involves the dentist taking tissue from the roof of the patient’s mouth to repair the gums. This procedure involves the use of tissue from the palette, along with deeper tissue.
The CTG procedure is known to be less traumatic of a procedure, while also allowing for more predictable coverage of the roots.
Other Grafting Options
There are other tissue grafting options that may be available for your gums. These include:
Alloderm Graft
Alloderm grafting is a procedure that involves donor tissue being used, as opposed to tissue from the mouth of the patient. If a patient doesn’t have enough tissue to remove from the roof of their mouth, this may be a good choice.
Pedicle Graft
Pedicle grafting is an oral health procedure that involves the use of gum tissue being repositioned from the area next to the recession. This may not always be an available option, though, as some patients don’t have sufficient tissue.
How Do I Avoid Gum Recession
As gum recession is often caused by behavioral factors, there are some things you can do to avoid gum recession. These include:
- Brush and floss every day
- Stop smoking/tobacco use
- Avoid brushing too hard
- Visit your dentist every six months for cleanings and checkups
Often, gum recession is due to periodontal disease and plaque and tartar buildup. That is why brushing, flossing, rinsing, and visiting the dentist regularly are so important. By taking preventative measures, you should be able to prevent the accumulation of plaque and tartar, along with gum disease.
If you have any questions about proper at-home care, ask your dentist during your next appointment.
Reach Out
If you have noticed more of the root of your tooth showing, your teeth “lengthening,” or your gums receding, reach out today. We’ll have an expert dentist take a look at your teeth and gums to better determine the cause of the issue. If your dentist finds your gums are receding, they will put together a treatment plan that will likely include a tissue graft.
If you have any additional questions, please reach out today. We look forward to speaking with you.
