Gum disease is a common oral problem that affects millions globally irrespective of age and gender. Even children are not spared of this debilitating dental problem. However, the outcome and progression are more severe in adults, especially with weakened immunity. Gum recession or receding gums is a common clinical feature of gum disease. Gum grafting offered by the gum specialist in Dieppe, NB, and their team is an effective treatment offered to treat gum recession or thinning gums.
Gum grafting covers exposed teeth roots and adds volume to your gum line improving overall gum health. It has a good success rate and can reduce your risk of severe gum disease.
What is gum grafting?
Gum grafting is a type of dental surgery that treats gum recession (A condition where your gums pull away from your teeth and expose the roots underneath). Exposed tooth roots increase your risk of tooth decay, sensitivity, and bone loss around the teeth. Gum grafting replaces the lost tissues around your teeth, improving your overall oral health.
Who needs gum grafting?
Gum grafting is often indicated for severe forms of gum disease which causes symptoms like gum recession. However, it can also be indicated if you have healthy gums but they are genetically thin or receded as in the case of a toothy smile.
What happens before gum grafting?
If your dentist suspects gum disease you will be referred to a gum specialist or a periodontist for further evaluation. Your specialist will examine your gums and measure the pocket depths to assess the amount of gum recession. Dental X-rays may also be taken to help evaluate bone loss in medically compromised patients like diabetics.
What happens during gum grafting?
During a gum graft surgery, your periodontist will:
- Give local anesthesia to numb the area being treated. Some dentists may even provide sedation in the form of nitrous oxide or oral sedation.
- Make an incision or a cut on the gums to raise a flap
- Thoroughly clean the teeth roots with an antiseptic solution
- Will make another small incision on the roof of your mouth to harvest your gum graft by removing a small wedge of inner tissues.
- Close the site using sutures or periodontal dressing
- Place the gum graft over your exposed tooth roots
- Finally, reposition the gum tissues and stitch them in place.
Keynote
Knowing that you need gum surgery can be daunting. But the good news is that it offers several benefits, including high success rates and quick recovery. Gum grafting is the most effective treatment for gum recession. Consult your gum specialist to determine if gum grafting is the right choice for you.
