Treating Gum Recession with Gingival Graft

Receding gums are a common dental problem and present with symptoms such as sensitivity to cold and hot foods and fluids. You may also appear to have a longer bite than it used to be if your gums are receding. When gums recede, they leave more of the teeth and root areas exposed. Although periodontal disease is considered the common cause of receded gums, aging, injury, genetics, and overly energetic brushing can also cause the gum recession.

Gum Recession Occurs Gradually

You will realize that gum recession occurs slowly. However, it can contribute to a poor appearance, discomfort, as well as sensitivity. Additionally, it can lead to tooth loss. It is crucial you seek treatment for receding gums immediately after you notice it. Remember that receded gums cannot grow back to their normal position on their own without treatment.

Treatment of Receding Gums

An effective method to treat receding gums is to get tissue grafting. This procedure involves placing gum tissue picked from other parts of the mouth such as the roof on onto the areas where the receding is occurring. The new tissue serves to bring back a healthy gumline and help protect tooth structure. Various gum grafting procedures are available including pedicle grafts, connective tissue grafts, and free gingival grafts.

Pedicle grafts are suitable if you have much gum tissue close to the site being repaired. However, if there is insufficient gum tissue near the site, a periodontist may pick the graft tissue from beneath the roof of the mouth. This is known as connective tissue graft. If your gum tissue is too thin, the dentist may get the graft tissue from your mouth’s roof and suture it in place on the gums in what is called a free gingival graft.

If your gums are receding, visit our dental team for evaluation and treatment. Mild cases might be helped without necessarily needing to get surgery, but for more serious cases, gum grafting may be a good option.