One common dental procedure is gum grafting. If you have receding gums, then this may be used to protect your teeth’s roots that may be sensitive or at an increased risk of decay as well as an unattractive smile as explained by a general dentist in Chicago, IL. In this comprehensive blog post, we are going to dissect exactly what gum grafting is, why it’s important, and the different methods of gum grafts that are available.

What is Gum Grafting?

A gum graft, also known as a gingival graft or periodontal plastic surgery, is an oral surgical procedure performed to correct receded gums. Gum recession — is a condition in which the gums have been pushed back around the teeth, making them appear more prominently or uncovering their roots. The patient’s condition can have multiple implications on the oral sequelae diverse from hot and cold increased sensitivity to root decay, and destruction of teeth appearance.

Types of Gum Grafts

Connective Tissue Grafts

This is the classification of gingival graft which generally performs commonly. This approach would require removing some tissue from the roof of the mouth (palate). The dentist then will make a small flap and use some piece of connective tissue from underneath the skin. The tissue is then stitched to the gum surrounding the exposed root.

Free Gingival Grafts

This is, in principle like connective tissue grafts but instead of raising a flap and harvesting the second layer under it an amount of tissue is taken from the palate directly. This graft is then placed in the area of recession.

Pedicle (Lateral) Grafts

In this procedure, the graft is removed from gum tissue located nearby to the tooth that needs repair. The flap (pedicle) is also partially severed and moved over or down onto the exposed root where it will be sutured.

Alloderm Grafts

Another word for Alloderm grafts is “cadaver” or cadaveric—this means that instead of a piece of the patient’s tissue being used, in this case, donated human tissue that has been medically processed to be free of cells; leaving only a collagen matrix. The matrix helps new tissue to grow and properly integrates with the patient’s gums.

Ultimately, gum grafting is an extremely effective procedure that can help with treating gum recession while safeguarding your oral health to reinvigorate the look of your smile. When patients comprehend the variety of gum grafts available as well as what they can anticipate before, during, and after their surgery, they do. If you are suffering from gum recession and want to improve the overall health of your gums, talk to a dental expert about whether or not gum grafting is an appropriate treatment.