Gum Restoration and Contouring: How Aesthetic Tissue Grafting Works

Aesthetic tissue grafting restores gum tissue once it has receded, thins, or becomes uneven. The procedure not only enhances the gums' primary function but also benefits their appearance. Having a basic understanding of this procedure and how it impacts your overall health can help prepare you for an upcoming appointment.

Why aesthetic tissue grafting is necessary

Gum recession can result from several factors, with periodontal (gum) disease and aggressive brushing being the most prevalent, according to the Cleveland Clinic. However, smoking, genetics, and underlying medical conditions can also be a cause. When the gums recede, they expose the teeth' roots, leading to increased sensitivity and exposure to decay-causing bacteria. As a result, patients may not only experience pain but also can experience tooth loss and a less-than-appealing smile.

Unfortunately, once this condition starts, patients cannot reverse it on their own. Fortunately, a dental specialist like a periodontist or oral surgeon can perform aesthetic tissue grafting to reshape and restore the gum line. This protects the teeth from potential damage, removes the threat of loss, and creates a more balanced, natural-looking smile.

Types of aesthetic tissue grafting

Aesthetic tissue grafting is a blanket term that means the tissue is harvested from one area of the mouth and placed over the thinning or receding areas of the gums. After an in-depth evaluation, dental professionals typically consider one of three types:

1. Connective tissue graft

The most common of the three types of grafting is a connective tissue graft. During the procedure, the dental professional makes an incision in the roof of the mouth, creating a flap. They then harvest tissue underneath the flap and stitch it over the recessed area. To finish, the dental professional stitch the flap back into place. Over time, the new tissue integrates with the existing tissue, covering exposed roots and improving gum thickness.

2. Free gingival graft

For patients solely needing to increase gum volume or density, the dental professional will likely recommend a free gingival graft. Like the connective tissue graft, this procedure begins by creating an incision in the roof of the mouth. However, instead of creating a flap, the dentist harvests as much tissue as necessary and attaches it to the too-soft gum area.

3. Pedicle graft

A pedicle graft greatly differs from the alternatives. During the procedure, the dental professional will reposition gum tissue near a recessed area to cover it. This aesthetic tissue graft works well for those with sufficient gum tissue near the recession site and can avoid harvesting altogether. Usually, this works for those experiencing a gum recession from single tooth loss.

Caring for aesthetic tissue grafting results

Patients should follow specific aftercare instructions after the aesthetic tissue grafting procedure to ensure optimal healing. Note that these instructions will vary depending on the type they have undergone. Nevertheless, they may include avoiding certain foods, practicing gentle brushing techniques, and using prescribed mouth rinses. Full recovery usually takes a few weeks, during which the newly grafted tissue integrates with the existing gums, creating a natural and durable result.

Call us for more information

Aesthetic tissue grafting combats gum recession and starts you on the path to restoring your oral health. If you are experiencing receding or thinning gums, contact Advanced Periodontics & Implant Dentistry. Our team is on standby, ready to curate a plan that reinstates your gums' proper function and appearance.

Request an appointment here: https://www.westtexasperio.com or call Advanced Periodontics & Implant Dentistry at (432) 538-3318 for an appointment in our Odessa office.

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