Gum Grafting: Everything You Need To Know

What Is Gum Grafting?

It is a dental surgery that is performed on the gum tissue to correct its positioning. Gum grafting in Dorval is necessary for improving the support of teeth, given that teeth rely on the gum and jawline for stability. In most cases, gum grafting in Dorval happens for patients who have receding gum lines. The process involves getting gum tissues from a different part of the mouth to build the receded gum.

Gum recession is when the gum tissue holding the teeth in places wears away. The tissue moves further away from the teeth, exposing the root of the tooth. Without services from Dorval gum grafting, the teeth may loosen and even fall off. Even then, gum grafting treatment in Dorval is not for patients who have a dental emergency. Some patients choose to go through gum grafting therapy in Dorval for cosmetic reasons.

What Causes Gum Recession?

A Dorval dentist has to thoroughly observe your dental status before recommending any grafting or alterations of your gum. Usually, the recession will be clear if part of your tooth’s root is showing. Most people cannot identify it because it happens gradually. Some of the causes of the gum recession include:

• Periodontal disease – gum disease is the leading cause of gum recession, according to dentists in Dorval. It causes the gum to loosen from the teeth, forming gum pockets that expose the root of teeth.
• Plaque buildup – even though you may not have gum disease yet, plaque buildup can cause the recession of your gums. When plaque is allowed to form for too long, it settles at the base of the teeth. It then pushes the gums away from the root. In time, it results in gum disease.
• Genes – some people have receded gums because it runs in the family. It is a similar case with people who have a lot of gum tissue showing when they smile. For this cause, your dentist in Montreal must analyze your family background to find any connection.

What Happens During the Gum Tissue Grafting Procedure?

Once your dentist in Montreal has cleared you from the dental exam, you can begin the gum grafting procedure. The different types of gum tissue grafts differ depending on their use. It is upon a dentist in Dorval QC to figure out which type best suits the patient’s needs. The three types of gum tissue grafts are:

• Connective-tissue grafts -The connective-tissue grafts are the most practiced procedure in gum grafting. It may be the first option a dentist near you mentions for your treatment. The procedure involves cutting a flap of tissue from the roof of your mouth. This part contains healthy gum tissue. There is tissue from under the flap of skin that is used to correct your receded gums. This connective tissue is called subepithelial. It is stitched to the affected area to cover the root of the exposed tooth. Once the subepithelial is removed, the flap of tissue is stitched back to its position.
• Free gingival grafts– Free gingival grafts are common for patients with thin gum tissue. It is similar to the connective-tissue grafts. However, instead of using the subepithelial connective tissue, free gingival grafts use the flap together with the tissue. A small part of the roof of your mouth is removed ad stitched to the affected area. This improves the gum line in both length and thickness.
• Pedicle grafts-Pedicle grafts are different from the previous two because they do not use tissue from the roof of the mouth. It is a procedure suited for people who have a lot of gum tissue to work with. The tissue is grafted from the gum of the affected tooth. A flap of tissue is taken from the area and partially cut. It is then pulled over to cover the damaged area. The other part of the gum remains attached.

Recovery from Gum Tissue Graft

Your mouth will still be sore after the procedure. The dentist, therefore, may give you a sedative to keep you relaxed. You will need some help in driving back home. Before the gum is healed, your dentist will prescribe and recommend some things. This will include how you clean your teeth, what you eat, and what antibiotics you need to use.