Gum Grafting

If your dentist determines that your gums have significantly receded, you may be referred to a periodontist for a gum graft procedure. Gum recession occurs when the tissue surrounding a tooth gradually pulls away, exposing more of the tooth or even its root. This exposure can lead to increased tooth sensitivity and potential damage to the supporting bone structure. Because gum recession develops slowly over time, it may go unnoticed until symptoms appear. Without treatment, it can eventually result in tooth loss. Gum grafting helps restore lost tissue and protect your teeth from further damage.

Types of Gum Grafts

Based on your specific needs, your periodontist may recommend one of the following gum graft techniques:

• Connective Tissue: The most commonly performed graft for treating exposed roots is the connective tissue graft. A small flap is created in the roof of your mouth, and tissue from beneath this flap (subepithelial connective tissue) is removed and stitched over the exposed root. The flap on the roof of the mouth is then sutured back into place.
• Free Gingival: Similar to the connective tissue graft, this procedure also uses tissue from the roof of the mouth. However, instead of creating a flap, a small amount of tissue is directly removed and attached to the treatment area. This option is often recommended for patients with naturally thin gum tissue.
• Pedicle: In a pedicle graft, tissue is taken from the gum area adjacent to the tooth requiring repair. A flap is partially cut so that one edge remains attached, then stretched to cover the exposed root and sutured into position. This method is only suitable for patients who have sufficient gum tissue near the affected tooth.

Tissue Bank Option

In some cases, graft material from a tissue bank may be used instead of harvesting tissue from the patient’s mouth. These materials often contain tissue-stimulating proteins that support the body’s natural ability to regenerate bone and gum tissue.