Gum Grafting Alternatives
Receding Gums
It can be a big surprise for patients when they discover they have a serious oral issue such as receding gums. This is especially shocking for patients who have good oral hygiene practices with twice daily brushing, daily flossing, and regular visits to the dentist. Receding gums are actually quite common and can be caused by various reasons, which may be genetic and out of the patient’s control. The gum tissue is not able to regrow once it is damaged. As a result, gum graft surgery is one of the only treatments to restore the gums. In many cases, the dentist or endodontist will recommend a gum graft to treat receding gums. It can be helpful for patients to understand that the issue may not be caused by something within their control. Below is a summary of the procedure and gum graft alternatives for patients who want to evaluate their options.
Gum Grafting
A gum graft is an outpatient surgical procedure which is relatively common. During the procedure, gum tissue is removed from one area of your mouth and placed in the area which has damaged gum tissue. The gum graft is strategically placed to cover the exposed roots. Gum grafting can also be performed prior to the placement of a dental implant to ensure the gums can adequately support the implant.
Gum Grafting Alternatives
Below is a summary of gum grafting alternatives for patients who are looking to improve the appearance of their gums. It is critical for patients to work directly with their dentist to determine which treatment will best meet their needs.
Pinhole Surgical Technique
A popular gum grafting alternative is called pinhole surgical technique (PST). This treatment is commonly preferred by dentists as it can be highly effective. The procedure works by making a tiny hole in the gum line to correct gum recession. Special instruments are used to loosen the gums to adjust them into the desired location. Because this treatment is less invasive compared to gum grafting, it is quickly gaining popularity. The recovery time with PST is also expedited compared to the recovery time with gum grafting, which can take a few weeks.
Scaling and Root Planing
Another effective treatment used for receding gums is scaling and root planing. During this procedure, accumulated plaque and tartar is removed from the teeth under the gum line. When bacteria are not effectively removed, it will harden and turn into tartar. This also increases a patient’s risk of developing gum disease and experiencing other oral health issues. Over time, tartar can cause receding gums and other complications such as the loss of teeth or bone tissue. When the tartar and bacteria are removed by the dental professional through scaling and root planing, it allows the gums to heal and restores the patient’s oral health.
Bone Regeneration
In severe cases of receding gums, it is possible for the jawbone to start deteriorating below the gums. This may require bone regeneration surgery in order to resolve the issue. During this treatment, the dental professional will pull back the gums to augment bone by using a bone graft. This treatment is highly invasive and requires a long recovery period. As a result, bone regeneration is only performed in severe cases of periodontitis where serious bone loss has occurred.
Gum Contouring
Another alternative treatment is gum contouring which may help avoid gum grafting for some patients. Gum contouring works by using lasers to reshape the gums. Patients will receive a local anesthetic prior to the procedure to minimize any discomfort. The treatment is effective in improving the appearance of the gums and giving patients an attractive smile. Gum contouring can also help reduce pocket depths and make it easier to patients to practice good oral hygiene. This also minimizes the patient’s risk of gum disease. In many cases, gum contouring is performed in addition to gum grafting.
Contact the office today to determine if you may benefit from gum grafting or another type of treatment to restore your oral health.