Most people pay more attention to their teeth than their gums. However, the gums play an important role in protecting the health of the mouth and deserve as much TLC as the teeth. So what happens if you notice that your gums have begun to thin or recede? In that case, you may end up considering the benefits of a soft tissue graft in San Antonio, TX.
What Is a Soft Tissue Graft?
A soft tissue graft occurs when donor tissue is attached to existing tissue. Why is this done? The expectation is to increase the volume of the original tissue area. For instance, during a gum graft, the periodontist increases the substance of the gums by surgically adding more soft tissue to parts of the mouth.
These types of grafts happen in-house under the correct type of sedation for your needs and the extent of the procedure. Your periodontist may recommend taking soft tissue from another part of your mouth, such as the palate, for your soft tissue graft. On the other hand, if you have enough volume in your remaining gum tissues, the periodontist may be able to split the existing tissue, move it to a new location, and avoid the need to have a second surgical site.
Why Would a Periodontist Suggest You Undergo a Soft Tissue Graft?
Soft tissue grafts treat and remedy a number of different dental problems. These include:
- Gum recession: When the gums begin to pull back and away from the teeth, they expose the tooth root and sometimes jawbone. Soft tissue grafting puts them back into their proper place so they can surround the hard tissues of your mouth. This helps reduce your likelihood of developing periodontal disease.
- Tooth sensitivity: Do your teeth hurt when you eat or drink? You may have tooth sensitivity, which can be caused by inadequate amounts of gum tissue. A soft tissue graft can be part of a comprehensive tooth sensitivity solution, along with dental hygiene and lifestyle changes.
- Appearance: When your gums recede, your teeth look longer. Many people dislike having “long teeth” and opt for soft tissue grafts to booth their smile aesthetics—and overall confidence levels.
Schedule a Soft Tissue Graft Consultation
If you have been worrying about your gums or other soft tissues in your mouth, contact a periodontist in San Antonio, TX like Dr. Andrew J. Weber. Dr. Weber has extensive experience in the dental field and has been named a top Dentist by his peers for more than a decade.
To arrange a personalized soft tissue graft consultation with Dr. Weber at either our San Antonio, TX or New Braunfels, TX locations, please contact our office at (210) 794-7747 or schedule a consultation online! We welcome new patients to our beautiful, modern facility.
