Gingival graft or gum grafts are periodontal treatments whereby tissue is added onto cover the exposed portion of the root to repair a defect and help prevent additional gum recession, bone loss and protects the tooth.
Factors contribuing to gum recession may include:
If your gums are severely recessed, gingival graft may help protect your teeth. Ask you periodontists about periodontal treatments.
When gingiva or gum tissue recedes, the body loses a natural defense against both bacterial penetration and trauma. Gum recession often results in root sensitivity to hot and cold foods as well as an unsightly appearance to the gum and tooth. Significant gum recession can also lead to root caries and root gouging.
During gingival periodontal treatments grafts, a thin piece of tissue is taken from the roof of the mouth or around gums round a tooth to provide a stable band of attached gingiva around the tooth. In addition to the patients own tissue, tissue from a donor bank that has undergone rigorous sterilizaton or synthetic mandbrane materials may be used.Tissue-stimulating proteins are sometimes also added to encourage the body’s natural ability to grow bone and tissue.
The area is numbed
Gum tissue from other areas or from donor are placed over the recessed site.
Grafts are stitched or tissue generation membrane added for healing
You may follow your regular daily activities, avoiding excessive exertion typed of activities such as exercising or sunbathing. You may experience some pain, espeically if the graft has been taken from other areas of mouth. If no tissue is removed from your palate or gums, there should be little or no discomfort.
Do not floss or brush over the gum area with gingival grafts until it has healed. Soft and cool foods is recommended for first week.
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