When a Gum Grafting Procedure May Be Recommended

A periodontist may recommend a gum grafting treatment to patients whose oral health or appearance is affected by gum recession. Periodontists, or dentists who specialize in gum tissues, perform gum grafting operations regularly.

The need for gum grafting

Various factors can cause gum recession, including bacteria that cause gingivitis and recession, genetically thin tissue, orthodontic treatment, aggressive tooth brushing, smoking, tobacco use, chewing hard foods, and biting objects. Patients can visit a periodontist to determine the cause of the receding gums and the best course of action for their restoration. The following are reasons why gum grafting may be recommended:

Correct the effects of gum recession

This treatment is most often used to repair damage caused by gum recession. While some degree of gum recession is expected with age, it may expose the tooth root and result in increased sensitivity to heat and cold. To alleviate the irritation of gum recession, patients can opt for a gum transplant.

Better appearance

Gum grafting may be necessary for reasons other than health. Soft tissue grafting may enhance a patient's smile even when there is no medical need for the treatment. There are times when the gum tissue is uneven or does not adequately cover a tooth's root, and a patient may choose to undergo gum graft surgery to enhance the look of their smile and make the teeth look more even.

Improve oral health

Periodontal disease is the most common cause of gum recession; hence gum grafting is typically necessary in this case. However, tooth sensitivity and aesthetics are not the only things harmed by the recession of the gums. A receding gum line exposes the root surfaces of teeth to decay, which may cause deterioration of the underlying bone supporting the teeth. Gum grafts are an excellent solution to keep the teeth and supporting bone structures healthy.

How a gum grafting procedure works

The gingival grafting operation may be advised after a complete examination and evaluation of the patient's teeth, gums, and general health. For this procedure, tissue is acquired in many ways, including from the hard palate or from donated tissue that has been medically processed to ensure safe usage.

Grafting may be performed in different ways. For example, since certain mouth areas are not visible when speaking or smiling, extra gum tissue may be grafted there to prevent future recession without attempting to hide the tooth-root surface entirely. This is called a free gingival graft since the tissue is removed from its blood supply during the process, which takes around 45 minutes. It has a very high success rate. A more sophisticated method is required if the goal is to cover the root surface completely, but gum grafting is still highly successful.