Gum grafting is used as a treatment for
receding gums, which is the downward movement of the gum line often caused by periodontal disease and even functional or mechanical habits. Receding gums can develop on one, many, or even all teeth and increase the risks of root decay, structure loss, and sensitivity. If you have gum recession, Dr. Randy J. Greenberg in Wallingford, CT can evaluate your condition and determine if you are a candidate for gum grafting.
Treatment for Receding Gums: There are Three Types of Gum Grafting Procedures
1. Connective Tissue Grafts
This procedure is the most common and is used to treat individual or multiple teeth. Once anesthetized, an incision is made in the roof of the patient’s mouth to create a flap. Healthy tissue is removed from under the flap, and then the flap is carefully stitched back into place. Next, the healthy tissue is stitched to the receding gums and over time, the tissue will grow together, forming a higher, healthier gum line.
2. Free Gingival Grafts
This procedure is identical to connective tissue grafts in every way except for the fact that a flap is not created in the roof of the mouth. Instead, the tissue is taken directly from the roof of the mouth. This is a preferred method for patients who have thin gums.
3. Pedicle Grafts
This procedure is often selected for patients who have plenty of gum tissue around the area(s) being treated. Instead of taking tissue from the roof of the mouth, the tissue is taken from the surrounding gums.
A flap, also known as a pedicle, is cut into the gums, leaving one end attached. Next, the pedicle is pulled up (from the lower jaw) or down (from the upper jaw) to blanket the exposed root(s) and is stitched into place.
Time is of the Essence in the Treatment for Receding Gums
If you have receding gums, it is important that you have an evaluation by Dr. Greenberg. Even at the beginning stages, it is often visually noticeable and you may experience temperature sensitivity. Without treatment, the effected teeth can eventually become loose and may even need to be extracted. The sooner the issue is treated, the better your chances are for successful treatment.
Once the gum tissues recede, they will not grow back on their own. If you are in need of treatment for receding gums, do not hesitate to call Dr. Greenberg in Wallingford, CT.