Soft tissue grafts
Gums can recede for a lot of reasons. They can recede because of periodontal disease, physical trauma, brushing too hard, brushing with a hard toothbrush, position of teeth, and ageing. If gum recession is serious then some of the tooth's root may be exposed. This will make the tooth sensitive to hot and cold temperatures. Your teeth will be more prone to tooth decay and you will eventually have aesthetic problems. In order to prevent further recession of the gums, soft-tissue grafts are used. The soft tissue graft is used to cover the exposed root area, stop any sensitivity, and improve the appearance of the tooth. There are people with naturally thin gums. They are more likely to recede. Soft tissue grafts can be done early on in order to prevent any future problems.
What is involved in soft tissue grafts?
There are three different types of soft tissue grafts and they are the free gingival grafts, the connective tissue grafts, and the pedicle grafts.
In a free gingival graft, a small strip of flesh is taken from the roof of the mouth. This tissue is called the graft and it is stitched to the existing gum tissue in the treated area. This is usually performed on people who have small amounts of gum tissue around their teeth. They need to have this area enlarged.
In a connective tissue graft, a flap is cut in the roof of the mouth. This will form a trap door. The tissue under the flap is removed and is stitched over the treated area. The removed tissue is called the subepithelial connective tissue. It is slipped under the gum tissue surrounding the exposed root surface and is sutured into place. For treating root exposure, this is the most common method used.
In a pedicle graft, a flap of tissue from around an adjacent tooth is partially cut away. One edge is still attached. The flap is also known as the pedicle. It is slid sideways to cover the exposed root. It is then stitched into place. A pedicle graft can be more successful than a free gingival graft because at least some of the blood vessels that feed the grafted section are still in place. However, a pedicle graft can only be performed if an adjacent tooth has enough gum tissue to share.
In all of these procedures, periodontists will use periodontal packing to cover and protect the grafted tissue. You will need this for the first two weeks for healing.
Will the soft tissue graft procedure be uncomfortable?
With the free grafts and connective tissue grafts, you will have two wounds. One of them is near the tooth and the other one is on the roof of your mouth. Graft tissue is usually taken from the roof of your mouth. The wound on the palate is like a significant pizza burn. You can take prescription painkillers from your dentist if you want to control any discomfort after the surgery.
How should you take care of yourself after the soft tissue graft?
You must keep your mouth clean. The unaffected teeth can be brushed and flossed as usual. Your mouthwash may need chlorexidine in order to control plaque during the healing period. Antibiotics may be prescribed.
What are the side effects of the soft tissue graft?
There are no long term side effects after soft tissue grafting. In some cases, the new gum tissue may need some reshaping. A procedure called gingivoplasty can make the gums look as natural as possible.