Gum Graft Specialist

What is a gum graft?

A gum graft is performed to correct receding gums. The dilemma with gum recession is that it exposes the roots of your teeth, making them more susceptible to permanent damage. Additionally, the exposed roots cause tooth sensitivity to eating cold or hot foods.

You may need gum grafting if you’re experiencing:

• Persistent bad breath
• Pus around your teeth
• Loose teeth
• Bleeding gums 

Call your dentist at Tyson’s Dental Design Center to determine the appropriate treatment for you. 

What are the different types of gum grafts?

The dental team at Tyson’s Dental Design Center performs three different types of gum tissue grafts. 

Connective tissue grafts

This is the most common type of graft in which your dentist removes a piece of connective tissue from the roof of your mouth. Your dentist grafts the connective tissue to the areas of your mouth that need gum tissue. Lastly, your dentist stitches up the roof of your mouth.  

Free gingival grafts

While similar to the connective tissue graft, the free gingival graft involves your dentist taking a small amount of tissue directly from the roof of your mouth and attaching it to the gum area being treated. This graft is for people who naturally have thin gums and need extra tissue to prevent gum recession again.   

Pedicle grafts 

Instead of grafting tissue from another area, your dentist takes gum tissue from around your gum recession area. This type of graft works best on people who already have plenty of gum tissue in most areas.

How can I prevent gum recession?

While a variety of factors can cause gum recession, it’s most closely associated with periodontal disease. The good thing is that periodontal disease can be prevented by practicing good oral care such as consistently brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash once or twice per day.

The dentists at Tyson’s Dental Design Center recommend you quit smoking because the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that smokers are four times more likely to develop gum disease compared to nonsmokers.

Always make sure to see your dentist at least twice a year for a dental checkup and teeth cleaning. If you have periodontal disease, your dentist can begin treatment.

A gum graft is the best way to prevent further damage caused by gum recession to your gum tissue and teeth. To learn more, call the dental team at Tyson’s Dental Design Center or book your appointment online.