GUM GRAFTING PROCEDURE TREATS RECEDING GUMS
If you have gum disease, you may be self-conscious about receding gums and may experience some tooth sensitivity. Gum recessionis one of the most noticeable side effects of gum disease and can be linked to a number of other symptoms such as root exposure, cavities, tissue inflammation, and esthetic concerns. Dr. Boyajian can perform a procedure to restore the gum tissue and improve your receding gums. Having enough gum tissue around the teeth is essential to prevent bacteria from damaging the teeth. It also helps to reduce the risk of bone and gum deterioration or even tooth loss.
COSMETIC BENEFITS OF RECEDING GUMS TREATMENT
If you have receding gums, you may be embarrassed about the amount of tooth showing when you smile. Gum grafting can lower the gum line to a more attractive level and reduce the amount of tooth that shows when you smile. The additional gum tissue can also increase the overall health of the teeth and gums. Dr. Boyajian may use one of three types of gum grafting procedures depending on your situation:
CONNECTIVE-TISSUE GRAFTS
These are the most common types of gum grafts and are used to treat root exposure around one or more teeth. In this procedure, Dr. Boyajian will need to cut a flap of skin from the roof of the mouth and remove some tissue from under this flap. The flap can then be stitched back down and the removed tissue will be stitched to the gum tissue that surrounds the exposed tooth. Over time, the attached tissue will grow together with the gum tissue and improve the appearance of your smile.
FREE GINGIVAL GRAFTS
These grafts are similar to a connective tissue graft except that a small amount of tissue is taken directly from the roof of the mouth without creating a flap. This tissue is then placed and attached to the gum area being treated. This is usually an attractive option for patients with naturally thin gums.
PEDICLE GRAFTS
In this procedure, the gum tissue is grafted from gum tissue around the tooth that needs to be repaired. A flap is partially cut away so that one edge remains attached. Then the flap is pulled up or down to cover the exposed root and sewn securely in place. Patients who already have plenty of gum tissue around the tooth in need of repair are typically good candidates for this procedure.
In some cases, Dr. Boyajian may use graft material from a tissue bank. After your procedure, you will be able to go home and will need to follow the post-op care instructions Dr. Boyajian gives you. It will be important to refrain from brushing or flossing the gum line that was treated until the area has fully healed. You will need to use a special mouthwash to help control plaque buildup during the healing period. For about a week after the procedure, your diet will be limited to soft foods. The pain level varies from patient to patient, and Dr. Boyajian may recommend an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication, or in some rare cases, prescription pain medication. Most patients are able to return to work within a day or two.