gUM Graft
pROTECT YOUR GUMS FROM RECESSION
When a recession of the gingiva or gum tissue occurs, the body loses a natural defense against bacterial penetration and trauma. Recession thins the ticker, non-movable tissue at the teeth’s base. As the tissue recedes, the root is exposed. The root is softer and more susceptible to decay and abrasion or notching. If a patient has a gum recession problems, gum reconstruction using various techniques is an option.
At Lowell Street Dental Implant & Surgical Center, Dr. Wilde has years of knowledge and experience helping patients protect and strengthen their smiles with gum graft and gum recession surgery, without using donor tissue harvested from the roof of the mouth. Dr. Wilde is proud to serve patients from Olympic Peninsula, Kitsap County, and Jefferson County, WA, including areas such as Keyport, Bremerton, and Poulsbo.
What’s Gum Recession?
When there’s only a minor gum recession and some healthy gingiva often remains to protect the root, no treatment other that modifying home care practices is necessary. However, when recession reached the boarding of the thin movable tissue called mucosa, the gingiva is no longer attached and the first line of defense against bacterial penetration is lost. Additionally, it’s harder to reach this area and keep it clean, further worsening the situation.
In addition, gum recession often results in root sensitivity to hot and cold foods, as well as an unsightly appearance of the gum and tooth. When significant, gum recession leads to worsening recession. Additionally, it exposes the root surface, which is softer than enamel, leading to root caries and root abrasion.
If there isn’t sufficient tissue that can be repositioned, a this piece of native or donor tissue is gently placed to provide a stable band of attached gingiva around the tooth. The gingival or gum graft may be placed in such a way as to cover the exposed portion of the root. There are two basic categories of gum graft – grafts “on top” and grafts “underneath.”
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Soft Tissue Grafts (Grafts “on top”)
Sometimes it’s necessary to increase or augment the band of the tissue around the base of the tooth called the attached gingiva. During the graphs quote on top procedure, a thin piece of tissue gently removed from an adjacent area is transplanted to the area where it’s needed. This tissue will attach and provide a stable bond around the tooth. While the gingival graft may be placed in such a way as to fortify the tissue band many times the recession can be reduced or eliminated at the same time.
The gingival graft procedure has a high success rate and results in a stable, healthy band of attached tissue around the tooth.
Graft “Underneath”
Oftentimes, the thin gum tissue is associated with the recession, root exposure, and route operation period the thinness of the tissue makes it susceptible to further root exposure. The gum graft “underneath” procedure will help guard against further recession and reduce root sensitivity. During the procedure, the donor tissue is placed under the existing tissue through a small tunnel. This will thicken the existing tissue and cover the root exposure.
Frequently asked questions
Why is gum recession surgery necessary?
If you’re planning on receiving dental implants, Dr. Wilde may recommend gum recession surgery. In order to qualify for dental implants, Dr. Wilde will evaluate the condition of your gums, teeth and jaw to see if they’re in good health. If your gum tissue is unhealthy, Dr. Wilde will recommend gum recession surgery in order to restore your oral health and increase your chance of a successful implant procedure.
Will the procedure be painful?
Most people fear pain that may come with using their own tissue from the roof of their mouth. Good News! Dr. Wilde exclusively uses Alloderm, a gum graft donor tissue from Biohorizons, making for a predictable and relatively pain free procedure.
Will my dental insurance cover the cost of a gum graph to procedure?
Most insurance companies should be able to cover a portion of the procedure expenses. We recommend speaking to your insurance provider. Beforehand to learn more about your coverage plan and the benefits they offer if your coverage isn’t enough. We also offer affordable financial assistance, so you don’t have to delay your treatment any longer.
Get your gums back to their optimal healtH
If your gums are in bad shape, gum recession surgery can help restore their health. Additionally, if you’re considering getting dental implants, undergoing gum recession, surgery can help long. Term success of your implants.
To learn more about the benefits of gum graph procedures. Call our Silverdale office at Lowell Street Dental Implant & Surgical Center Phone Number (360) 692-0300. Today to schedule your consultation, you can also fill out our online contact form and one of our staff will be happy to assist you Dr. Wilde and our skilled team are proud to provide high quality dental services to patients in Olympic peninsula, Kitsap, County and Jefferson County, WA. We look forward to helping you get your gum health back on track!