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Gum Grafting The gums are responsible for maintaining your oral health and facial aesthetics, serving as an essential part of your smile. The gum tissue serves to form a barrier around the teeth to protect them from bacteria and root decay. When your gums recede, this can negatively impact both your oral health and your confidence. At Dallas Oral Surgery Associates, our surgeons offer gum grafting as an answer to restoring the damage caused by gum recession. Causes of Gum RecessionGum recession can be caused by a variety of complications. Gum disease is one of the most common perpetrators; when bacteria is able to travel under the gums, the gums can become inflamed. This inflammation causes the gum tissue to pull away from the teeth and inevitably die. Other causes of gum recession can be:
What Is A Gum Graft?Like all grafts, a gum graft is a surgical procedure that uses existing tissue to restore recessed gum tissue. The existing gum tissue is typically taken from elsewhere in the mouth, or a donor site. This living tissue is stitched over the recessed area, or the recipient site. In some instances, we may also choose to use tissue from another individual as a donor or use regenerative materials to aid in gum restoration. Gum Graft ProcedureThe surgical procedure begins with a local anesthetic at the surgical sites. If you begin to feel nervous or anxious prior to or during the procedure, our anesthesia team can offer a sedative to help you relax. Your surgeon will first collect the healthy donor tissue before suturing over the affected teeth. After the procedure, the donor tissue and recessed gums will grow and fuse together as you heal, forming a tight seal around your teeth. Types Of Gum GraftAt Dallas Oral Surgery Associates, we offer three different types of gum grafts:
Benefits Of A Gum GraftGum grafting is associated with a wide variety of benefits. When the gums are restored and secured over the teeth, the teeth and jawbone are protected from bacteria falling below the gumline. This seal also alleviates tooth and root sensitivity. Exposed tooth roots make teeth vulnerable to decay, but a successful gum graft can help prevent cavities. If gum recession is visible, gum grafting can improve the overall aesthetic appearance of the smile and improve your confidence. If you are seeking to prevent your teeth from further damage due to receding gums, a gum graft can help. Patients with receded gums are eligible for a gum graft to help address existing complications, including tooth decay and sensitivity. To schedule a consultation or find out more about gum grafting, contact us today at 214-363-9946! |
