Gum grafting is a standard periodontal procedure to treat receding gums and exposed roots. Receding gums occur when the underlying bone wears away, causing the gums to pull back away from the teeth and expose the sensitive root surface.
Exposed roots are more susceptible to decay, as plaque and debris easily become lodged in the tooth groove. Gum grafting helps to protect these areas by closing off any open pockets and creating a more secure seal between the teeth and gums. The procedure is also often used to cover an exposed root of a tooth that had been treated with root canal therapy.
Treating receding gums with grafting can help prevent several oral health problems from occurring. Damaged areas on the gums can lead to tooth decay and eventual tooth loss if left untreated. If the roots of the teeth become exposed, the patient may be unable to properly clean those areas, leading to increased inflammation and infection between the root of the tooth and the jawbone. At Valenta Dental, patients who undergo gum grafting enjoy a more aesthetically pleasing smile and significantly improved dental health.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth, including your gums and bone. This infection damages the supporting structures of your teeth and causes tooth loss in severe cases.
Early stages of gum disease are known as gingivitis and should not be left untreated as it can lead to more severe issues later. The most common form of gum disease, periodontitis, is caused by plaque buildup along the gum line that hardens into tartar. This causes the gums to pull away from the teeth and form spaces between them known as periodontal pockets. These periodontal pockets fill with infectious bacteria that cause the infection to spread to the roots of the teeth, leading to bone loss and, eventually, tooth loss.
The Procedure for Gum Grafting
Gum graft may also be necessary if a large area of gum tissue is lost. First, our dentist will numb the areas with a local anesthetic. Then, a piece of tissue is taken from the roof of the mouth to replace the missing tissue. This replacement tissue is then placed to cover the exposed area and protect the tissue from bacteria in the mouth. The treatment area and the donor area on the roof of the mouth are then stitched closed and left to heal.
After the procedure, you will be given instructions on how to care for the graft and promote healing. Visit Valenta Dental at 1838 Dunlap Ave, Marinette, WI 54143, or call (715) 735-5626 for the best dental care.
