Gum Grafting: Restoring Your Smile and Oral Health

Gum recession can be a common problem for many people. It can be caused by a number of factors such as gum disease, genetics, aggressive brushing, or poor oral hygiene. When gum recession occurs, it can expose the roots of your teeth and cause sensitivity, pain, and even tooth loss. Fortunately, gum grafting is a safe and effective solution that can help restore your smile and oral health.

Gum grafting is a surgical procedure that involves taking gum tissue from one area of your mouth and grafting it onto the affected area. The graft can be taken from the roof of your mouth or from a tissue bank. The goal is to cover the exposed roots and restore the gum line to its natural position.

There are three types of gum grafting procedures:

1. Connective tissue grafting: This is the most common type of gum grafting procedure. It involves making a small incision in the roof of your mouth and taking a small piece of connective tissue from underneath the top layer. The graft is then stitched onto the affected area.
2. Free gingival grafting: This procedure involves taking a small piece of gum tissue from the roof of your mouth and grafting it onto the affected area. This is often used for patients who have thin gums or need additional gum tissue.
3. Pedicle grafting: This procedure involves taking gum tissue from around the affected tooth and pulling it over the exposed root. The graft remains attached on one side and is left to heal.

After the procedure, your dentist will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions to help promote healing and prevent infection. It’s important to follow these instructions carefully and attend follow-up appointments to ensure that your gums are healing properly.

Gum grafting can help improve the appearance of your smile and protect your teeth from further damage. If you’re experiencing gum recession, talk to your dentist about whether gum grafting may be the right solution for you. With proper care, gum grafting can help restore your oral health and give you a reason to smile again.