Soft Tissue Grafting
Soft tissue grafting is often necessary to combat gum recession. Periodontal disease, trauma, aging, over brushing, and poor tooth positioning are the leading causes of gum recession which can lead to tooth-root exposure in severe cases.
When the roots of the teeth become exposed, eating hot and cold foods can be uncomfortable, decay is more prevalent and the aesthetic appearance of the smile is altered. The main goal of soft tissue grafting is to either cover the exposed root or to thicken the existing gum tissue in order to halt further tissue loss.
The three different types of common soft tissue grafts include:
- Free gingival graft – A strip of tissue is removed from the roof of the mouth and sutured to the grafting site in order to promote natural growth. This type of graft is most commonly used for thickening existing tissue. A protective mouth piece will be provided to protect the palate in the first 24 hours. This is the most predictable gum graft procedure.
- Connective tissue graft – For covering root exposure back to it’s original shape and form, subepithelial tissue is needed to remedy the problem. The subepithelial connective tissue is removed from a small flap in the mouth and sutured to the grafting site. This is the most common treatment for root exposure when cold and hot sensitivity is a problem, or when aesthetics are of concern.
Reasons for soft tissue grafting
Soft tissue grafting is an extremely versatile procedure that has many uses. Recent developments in dental technology have made soft tissue grafting more predictable and less intrusive. Here are some of the main benefits associated with soft tissue grafting treatment:
- Increased comfort – Root exposure can cause substantial pain and discomfort. Eating hot, cold or even warm foods can cause severe discomfort. Soft tissue grafts cover the exposed root, decreases sensitivity and restore good health to the gum area.
- Improved aesthetics – Gum recession due to periodontal disease can cause the smile to look “toothy” or the teeth to appear uneven in size. Soft tissue grafting can be used as a cosmetic procedure to re-augment the gums, and make the smile appear more symmetrical.
- Improved gum health – Periodontal disease is a progressive condition that can destroy soft tissue very rapidly. Soft tissue grafting can halt tissue and bone loss, and protect exposed roots from further complications. This procedure can maintain the health of the tooth during active orthodontics when thin gums prevent tooth movement, or when thin gums prevent proper restorative work such as crowns and bridges.
What does soft tissue grafting treatment involve?
Initially, deep cleaning will be performed both above and below the gum line to clear the teeth and roots of calculus (tartar). The grafting procedure itself will generally be performed under local anesthetic, but this will depend on the size of the areas receiving grafts. A small incision will be made at the recipient site in order to create a small pocket. A split thickness incision is made in this pocket and the donor tissue is placed between the two sections of this area. The donor tissue strip is generally larger than the incision, so some excess will be apparent in the first few weeks which will subside gradually.
Gum uniformity and substantial healing will take place in the first six weeks after the procedure.
If you have any questions about soft tissue grafting, please ask Dr. Bashiri and staff.
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Farrokh Bashiri, DDS Inc
2991 Treat Blvd Suite J, Concord, CA 94518
Farrokh Bashiri, DDS Inc
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