Launch Mini Presentation
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For a brief narrated overview of the process, please click the image below. Many questions pertaining to gum grafting in our Medford and Moorestown, NJ offices are answered.
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When recession of the gums occurs, the roots of the teeth show and the body loses a natural defense against both bacterial penetration and trauma. The primary problem is that the patient is not only losing gum tissue but also bone. The underlying reason for the recession is genetically thin gum and bone. When gum recession is a problem gum reconstruction using grafting techniques is an option.
When there is only minor recession, some healthy gingiva often remains and protects the tooth, so that no treatment other than modifying home care practices is necessary. However, when recession reaches the cheek tissues, the first line of defense against bacterial penetration is lost.
Gum recession often results in root sensitivity to hot and cold foods as well as an unsightly appearance to the gum and tooth. Also, gum recession, when significant, can predispose to worsening recession and expose the root surface, which is softer than enamel, leading to root cavities and root gouging.
A gingival graft is designed to correct these problems. A thin piece of tissue is taken from the roof of the mouth, or gently moved over from adjacent areas, to provide a stable band of attached gingiva around the tooth. The gingival graft may or may not be placed in such a way as to cover the exposed portion of the root.
The gingival graft procedure is highly predictable at thickening the gum and protecting the bone.
When deep decay occurs below the gumline, it may be necessary to remove a small amount of bone and gum tissue. Your dentist may ask for this procedure before he or she makes a new crown for your tooth. Reshaping the gum and supporting tissues allows your general dentist adequate room to place a quality good fitting final restoration.
Another cosmetic indication for crown lengthening is when the front teeth are too short or of uneven length. This procedure corrects a "gummy smile".
This procedure corrects the infection in the bone. Traditionally, gum disease is treated by eliminating the gum/bone pockets. The infected gum tissue is trimmed away, and the diseased bone tissue re-contoured. Although this is still an effective way of treating gum disease, new and more sophisticated procedures are also used routinely today.
This surgical procedure "regenerates" the previously lost gum and bone tissue. Most techniques utilize membranes, which are inserted over the bone defects. These membranes are bio-absorbable. Other regenerative procedures involve the use of bioactive gels. These procedures are extremely safe and predictable. They are used on a daily basis throughout the United States.
