Treatment for Gum Recession
At Gray’s Periodontal Center, we offer a variety of oral surgical techniques in order to help treat a patient’s oral health issues. To help treat gum recession, we offer patients soft tissue grafting, also known as gum grafting. To help cover up the exposed tooth root, gum grafting will involve removing a portion of gum tissue from the patient or a donor and placing it over a specific area. Since each patient is unique, there are different ways and methods to complete this procedure.
Connective tissue grafts
One of the more common methods for treating root exposure in teeth, connective-tissue grafts involve cutting a flap of skin in the roof of the mouth. After removing the tissue, we will place it over the exposed tooth root and stitch the flap back down.
Pedicle grafts
The pedicle graft is for patients who have a large amount of gum tissue to spare. Instead of removing tissue from the roof of the mouth, the periodontist removes some tissue from the area around the tooth that needs repair. We will create a partial flap so that it remains in the mouth and pulls the gum to cover the root. We will then stitch the gum into place.
Free-gingival grafts
The free-gingival graft is more common in patients with thin gums. This method takes the gum tissue directly from the roof of the mouth without creating a flap. After, we will re-attach the tissue to the area around the tooth to complete the procedure.
Proper Aftercare
Following the procedure, the patient may need a ride home due to the effects from the sedative. The patient will need to be careful and avoid flossing or brushing the specific area of the gum line for a few days. The patient will also need to rinse the mouth with a special mouthwash to control plaque during this time.
The patient will have to eat soft food until the gums completely heal. Any pain should dissipate fairly quickly after the procedure. If that is not the case, give us a call immediately. We can help determine what is continuing to cause the pain. If you need a gingival grafting procedure or want to schedule an appointment, give us a call today.