Gum Grafting
periodontics • rocky hill, nj • princeton, nj
Gum grafts are needed for both cosmetic and functional reasons.
They may be used for cosmetic reasons to cover unattractive exposed roots or they may be necessary to add more tissue to prevent further recession and bone loss.
Grafts may be used to stop recession when there is insufficient soft tissue protection of the underlying bone. Your teeth are surrounded by two types of tissue, gingiva (gum) and mucosa. Gums are the thick dense tissue that adheres to the teeth and underlying bone. They are necessary because they provide a biologic seal that keeps bone intact and free from bacterial insult. Mucosa is a thin loosely adherent tissue that does not create a biologic seal or withstand trauma (even tooth brushing) well. In some instances there is simply not enough gum surrounding the tooth to maintain the stability of the underlying bone. Recession results when that bone “dissolves” away from the tooth and the gum just follows it exposing the underlying tooth root.
It is important to remember that when you are “watching” your gums recede, what you actually seeing is the bone dissolving exposing the root it once covered.
When recession of the gingiva occurs as a result of an anatomic insufficiency the body loses a natural defense against both bacterial penetration and trauma. A gingival graft is a predictable way of creating a new zone of thick and adherent tissue to stop further recession. Once completed it is stable and only very rarely does more gum ever have to be added to that site.
Gum recession also often results in root sensitivity to hot and cold stimuli as well as an unsightly appearance. When significant, recession exposes the root surface, which is softer than enamel, often leading to root decay and root gouging.
An orthodontist may request that a child or adult correct a potential or existent recession problem prior to the initiation of treatment. Your general dentist may also ask you to have a graft procedure done prior to a new crown or restoration at or below the gum line if insufficient gum is present to maintain a healthy environment.
A gingival graft is designed to solve these problems. It is one of the most predictable and commonly performed procedures in both adults and children.
Subepithelial connective tissue grafts are a significant modification of grafting techniques that allow many roots to be covered with gum tissue so that they look totally natural.
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