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Periodontics
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Periodontal disease is a serious condition that can greatly affect the health of your mouth. Bacteria travel below the gum line and can infect your teeth and your jawbone. As a result, your jawbone weakens and your teeth may become loose and potentially fall out. One of the most common signs of periodontal disease is gum recession. As your gums recede, the roots of your teeth become exposed. This not only causes sensitivity to temperature, acid, spice and salt, it also greatly increases your chances of experiencing tooth decay. After periodontal treatment, a soft tissue graft can cover your exposed roots, and reverse the effects of gum disease. At Excellent Dental Specialists, we have the expertise to perform soft tissue grafts all while providing you a safe and comfortable environment.
A soft tissue graft is a surgical procedure in which tissue from another area of your body, most frequently the roof of your mouth or surrounding gums, is removed and then placed over your affected teeth. There are some instances where tissue from a donor is necessary. The donor tissue, whether it is yours or from another, is stitched in place and allowed to grow into the existing tissue, bringing your gums back to a healthy state.
There are three types of soft tissue grafts:
| • | Connective tissue graft. This graft requires a small incision on the roof of your mouth. Tissue from under the flap is removed to be used. The tissue is stitched to your gums and the flap is stitched closed. |
| • | Free gingival graft. Tissue is taken directly from the roof of your mouth, rather than from under a flap. Again, the donor tissue is stitched in place over your affected teeth and the wound at the roof of your mouth is treated. |
| • | Pedicle graft. This graft uses surrounding healthy gum tissue. The healthy tissue is split and manipulated to cover the areas of recession. |
There are three major benefits of a soft tissue graft:
| • | The procedure gives you a healthier mouth and prevents new infection from occurring. The grafted tissue grows into the existing tissue and attaches to the teeth. This protects the integrity of your jawbone as well as the roots of your teeth. |
| • | The roots of your teeth are saved from sensitivity, thus allowing you to enjoy all of your favorite foods once again. |
| • | You will regain confidence. Gum recession makes your teeth appear longer, and can make you look older, and you may become shy about smiling. A gum graft restores the health of your gums and will allow you smile without worry once again. |
Candidates for a soft tissue gum graft are those who have suffered from receding gums and are experiencing tooth sensitivity. You may be embarrassed by your smile. If your gum recession was due to periodontal disease, you must first have this condition treated. You must be in overall good health. It is also recommended that you be a nonsmoker, or at least be willing to quit both for a time before the procedure and while you heal, as smoking can slow the healing process and lower your chances for a successful graft.
If you have suffered from gum recession, contact us at (210) 598-8933 today for more information about soft tissue grafts or to schedule your appointment.
Content retrieved from: https://www.excellentdentalspecialists.com/p/Soft-Tissue-Grafts-p19658.asp.html.
Excel Dental and Implant Center
4450 Lockhill-Selma Rd.
Suite 101, San Antonio, TX 78249
New Braunfels, TX
1583 East Common Street, Suite 200
New Braunfels, TX 78130
