Benefits of Gum Grafting in Glendale
Do you have receding gums? If so, you’re not alone. Gum recession is a common problem that can cause tooth sensitivity and an unsightly appearance. But there’s good news – gum grafting is a procedure that we at Mountainview Periodontics in Glendale, CO, can help correct these problems.
Gum recession is a common problem that can occur in anyone. It’s caused by various factors, such as periodontal disease, genetics, and aggressive brushing. When gums recede, the roots of your teeth are exposed, leading to tooth sensitivity and an increased risk for cavities and gum disease.
Why Do Gums Recede?
Our gums can recede in certain areas when they are no longer supported by our root structure, leading to gum recession. Recession often occurs due to injuries or damage sustained during tooth brushing/exercising, your genetics, and aging. The natural hormonal changes that happen with age play a significant role in gum recession.
Symptoms of Gum Recession
Common symptoms of gum recession include:
- Bad breath that won’t go away.
- Red or swollen gums.
- Tender or bleeding gums.
- Painful chewing.
- Loose teeth.
- Sensitive teeth.
- Receding gums or longer appearing teeth.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you may want to consider gum grafting. This procedure can help protect your teeth from further damage and restore your gums to health. Gum grafting is a safe and effective treatment with a high success rate.
Types of Gum Grafts
Gum grafting can be done in various ways, addressing a different periodontal issue. The degree of gum recession, the amount to which the cheek can pull on the surgical site during daily activities, and whether your gums have receded in between your teeth or merely on the front surface influence which type of gum transplant is indicated.
- Connective Tissue Graft – Gum grafting with connective tissue necessitates opening a small flap in the roof of your mouth, referred to as a “trap door.” Next, your periodontist will utilize this trap door to locate and remove a piece of connective tissue from behind your gums, stitched where they have receded.
- Gingival Graft for Free – Unlike the “trap door” approach, a free gingival transplant also takes a small amount of tissue from the roof of your mouth. The distinction is that the tissue used comes from the upper layer of the palate and is grafted into a location where additional gum tissue is needed owing to thinning.
- Pedicle Graft – The pedicle graft includes utilizing a flap to graft tissue closer to the recession location. The flap covers the retreating gum tissue, effectively using tissue already present in the problem location rather than tissue elsewhere in the mouth, such as the roof.
Gum Grafting Procedure
One of the most effective treatments for gum recession is gum grafting. The gum grafting procedure can be performed in various ways, depending on the patient’s specific needs. In most cases, Dr. Butler or Dr. Riffel will numb your gums with a local anesthetic before surgery. This procedure involves transplantation of healthy gum tissue to an area where gum recession has occurred and using it to rebuild your gums. Gum grafting can help improve your smile’s appearance and reduce tooth sensitivity.
The Benefits of Gum Grafting in Glendale, CO
Gum grafting has a high success rate and can provide many benefits, such as improved cosmetic appearance, increased tooth stability, decreased tooth sensitivity, and prevention of further gum recession.
Post-op and Recovery
Once the surgery is complete, you will need to take some time for rest and recovery. You should avoid talking, laughing, or smoking for at least 24 hours after the surgery. You will also need to avoid drinking through a straw for at least 48 hours. It is essential to keep the surgical area clean and dry.
Prevention
Brushing your teeth softly with a soft-bristle toothbrush is the most excellent technique to prevent gum recession. Furthermore, regular oral hygiene, such as brushing twice a day and flossing once a day, can help prevent gum disease, promoting receding gums. Cleanings and exams every two years are also necessary to remove all gum disease-causing tartar and identify and treat any early signs of gum disease.
If you feel like you might be suffering from receding gums, come to Mountainview Periodontics in Glendale, CO, or Periodontics of Cherry Creek. Dr. Butler and Dr. Riffel will examine your smile to see if gum grafting might be right for you. Schedule an appointment today.
