Gingival Grafting
Patients first notice the onset of gum recession when their teeth start to look longer in appearance. When left untreated, more noticeable symptoms eventually start to develop, such as significant sensitivity or possible loose teeth.
At Downtown Periodontics and Implant Placement, we offer gum grafting to help patients with gingival recession. Dr. Charles McCann performs this beneficial procedure to help restore and strengthen your gum health so recession doesn’t reoccur. Contact us in Minneapolis today to schedule an appointment.
Why Gums Start to Recede
Gums can start to lose their healthy volume for a variety of reasons, most often the cause is an untreated periodontal disease. A variety of factors causes periodontal concerns, including improper oral hygiene, genetics, diabetes, and even hormonal changes. Bad habits, such as smoking can also contribute to the development of gum disease. Other patients can experience gum recession because of improper brushing or teeth grinding and clenching.
How Dr. McCann Treats Periodontal Recession
When a patient is experiencing recessed gums, the first step of our treatment process is conducting a deep cleaning. Often referred to as scaling and root planning, this procedure removes tartar and plaque along and beneath the gum line, preventing continued recession and promoting healing.
If a patient is experiencing a severe recession, a more advanced treatment may be needed. This treatment is gum grafting. Gum graft surgeries can be performed in a variety of ways.
Connective-tissue grafts are the most common type of graft performed. The process involves taking tissue from the roof of the mouth and grafting it over areas where the roots are exposed.
Free gingival grafts are slightly less common, though similar to connective-tissue grafts. These types of grafts are taken directly from the patient’s palate.
Pedicle grafts are the final type of graft and only use the tissue surrounding the tooth needing repair.
In the event that a patient’s own tissue cannot be used for their graft, medically donated tissue can also be used.
Benefits of Gingival Grafting
Most noticeable to patients, gum grafts provide relief from tooth sensitivity. Beyond that, grafts can protect the roots of teeth from decay, as well as stop the continued recession of gums and potential bone loss that can occur if left untreated.
Contact Us Today
If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity because of receding gums, Downtown Periodontics & Implant Dentistry can help alleviate symptoms and restore optimal oral health. Contact our team today to learn more. We proudly serve those living or working in Minneapolis and the surrounding communities.
CALL US: (612) 263-8571 REQUEST APPOINTMENT
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