Gum Grafting Procedures
What is Gum Grafting?
A gum graft (also known as a gingival graft or periodontal plastic surgery), is a collective name for surgical periodontal procedures that aim to cover an exposed tooth root surface with grafted oral tissue.
Exposed tooth roots are usually the result of gingival recession due to periodontal disease. There are other common causes, including overly aggressive brushing and trauma.
Here are some of the most common types of gum grafting:
- Free gingival graft – This procedure is to thicken gum tissue. A layer of tissue is removed from the palate and relocated to the area affected by gum recession. Both sites will quickly heal without permanent damage.
- Subepithelial connective tissue graft – This procedure is to cover exposed roots. Tissue is removed fairly painlessly from the outer layer of the palate and relocated to the site of gum recession.
- Acellular dermal matrix allograft – This procedure uses medically processed, donated human tissue as a tissue source for the graft. The advantage of this is procedure is that there is no need for a donor site from the patient’s palate (and thus, less pain)
Reasons for gum grafting
Gum grafting is a common periodontal procedure. Though the name might sound frightening, the procedure is commonly performed with excellent results.
Here are some of the major benefits associated with gum grafting:
Reduced sensitivity
When the tooth root becomes exposed, eating or drinking hot or cold foods can cause extreme sensitivity to the teeth. Gum grafting surgery permanentlycovers the exposed root, helps reduce discomfort, and restores the good health of the gums.
Improved appearance
Periodontal disease is characterized by gum recession and inflammation. Gum recession and root exposure can make the teeth look longer than normal andthe smile to appear “toothy.” Gum grafting can make the teeth look shorter, more symmetrical and generally more pleasing to look at. In addition, adjacent tissue can be enhanced and augmented during the procedure for aesthetic purposes.
Improved gum health
Periodontal disease can progress and destroy gum tissue very rapidly. If left untreated, a large amount of gum tissue can be lost in a short period of time. Gum grafting can help halt tissue and bone loss; preventing further problems and protecting exposed roots from further decay.
If you feel some of the symptoms, mentioned above, do not hesitate to book your appointment with Gum Specialist Dr.Miski.
What does gum grafting treatment involve?
Once the need for gum grafting surgery has been determined, there are several treatments the dentist will want perform before gum grafting takes place. First, the teeth must be thoroughly cleaned supra and subgingivally to remove calculus (tartar) and bacteria. The dentist can also provide literature, advice and educational tools to increase the effectiveness of homecare and help reduce the susceptibility of periodontal disease in the future.
What type of anesthesia is needed?
The gum grafting procedure is usually performed under local anesthetic. The exact procedure will depend much on whether tissue is coming from the patient’s palate or a tissue bank.
Initially, small incisions will be made at the recipient site to create a small pocket to accommodate the graft. Then a split thickness incision is made and the connective tissue graft is inserted into the space between the two sections of tissue. The graft is usually slightly larger than the recession area, so some excess will be apparent.
Sutures are often placed to further stabilize the graft and to prevent any shifting from the designated site. Surgical material is used to protect the surgical area during the first week of healing. Uniformity and healing of the gums will be achieved in approximately six weeks.
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OUR TESTIMONIALS
Dr. Miski is a fantastic and extremely knowledgeable man, who understands that patients are not only concerned with a quality treatment, but also a qualitative understanding of the procedures and their reasons. Dr. Miski was always patient with his explanations and it is clear that it is very important to him that the patient understands. Aside from this, I was always comfortable with any dental procedures Dr. Miski conducted and trusted his judgement. I would highly recommend anyone to Dr. Miski purely due to the clarity he provides with every treatment.
United Arab Emirates
I’ve been availing of Dr. Miski service for over 3years now and every experience is a joy. Dr. Miski is someone who really makes you feel he cares more about my teeth, more so than I do myself. He takes his time to explain all of your available options and no matter how many questions I ask of him, I never feel I’m burdening him. As someone with extreme sensitivity, never once have I ever felt any discomfort with any injection or procedure and can wholeheartedly say, my teeth have improved immensely since I started using the services of Dr. Miski. Unreservedly, I feel if the dentistry industry had more professionals like Dr. Miski, we all could benefit greatly.
Ireland
The most beautiful and complete work seeing ever. Thank you Doctor.Belgium
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Mexico
After a long road of dental work for Implants,the end result brought me to tears!I now know & can smile with confidence,due to the ultimate care that was given to me. Dr.Miski has become more of a friend and I trust him with anymore future dental work I will be having,I am so grateful.
Ireland