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Lowell Street Dental Implant and Surgical Center

360-692-0300

Gum Graft & Gum Recession Surgery in Silverdale, WA

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 thicker, non-movable tissue at the teeth’ 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 any gum recession problems, gum reconstruction using various techniques is an option.

At Lowell Street Dental Implants & Surgical Center, Dr. Wilde has years of knowledge and experience helping patients protect and strengthen their smiles with gum graft and gum recession surgery. 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 than modifying home care practices is necessary. However, when recession reaches the border 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 thin 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.”

For more photos of gum graft procedures – click here!


SOFT TISSUE GRAFTS (GRAFTS “ON TOP”)

Sometimes it’s necessary to increase or augment the band of the tissue around the base of a tooth called the attached gingiva. During the grafts “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 root abrasion. 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 chances of a successful implant procedure.

Will my dental insurance cover the cost of a gum graft 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 ensure the long-term success of your implants.

To learn more about the benefits of gum graft procedures, call our Silverdale office at (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!

Dr. Greggory Wilde, Periodontist at Lowell Street Dental Implant and Surgical Center in Silverdale, WA

Serving the Olympic Peninsula, Kitsap County & Jefferson County communities including Silverdale, Bremerton, Bainbridge Island, Port Angeles, Poulsbo, Sequim & Port Orchard WA Serving Silverdale, Bremerton, Port Orchard, WA

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