Soft Tissue Grafting

Soft Tissue Grafting: Restoring Health and Aesthetics to Gums

Soft tissue grafting is a dental procedure that involves transplanting gum tissue to areas where it has receded or is insufficient. The goal is to restore the health and appearance of the gums, protect the roots of the teeth, and improve overall oral health.

What is Soft Tissue Grafting?

Soft tissue grafting, also known as gum grafting, is a periodontal procedure that addresses gum recession or thinning gums. The procedure typically involves taking gum tissue from one part of the mouth and grafting it onto the area where the gums have receded or where additional support is needed.

Types of Soft Tissue Grafts:

1. Free Gingival Graft: A piece of tissue is taken from the roof of the mouth and attached to the affected area to increase gum thickness.
2. Connective Tissue Graft: The most common type, where a flap of skin is cut at the roof of the mouth, and tissue from underneath is removed and stitched to the gum area needing treatment.
3. Pedicle Graft: Tissue is taken from the gum around or near the tooth needing treatment and partially cut away so that one edge remains attached. The gum is then pulled over or down, covering the exposed tooth root and sewn into place.

The Soft Tissue Grafting Procedure:

1. Consultation: The dentist or periodontist will evaluate the gums to determine the extent of recession and the most suitable type of graft.
2. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is used to numb the area where the graft will be placed and the area where the donor tissue will be taken.
3. Graft Placement: The chosen grafting technique is performed, and the tissue is secured in place with sutures.
4. Healing: The graft site will need time to heal, typically a few weeks to a month. During this time, patients must follow specific post-operative instructions to ensure successful healing.

Benefits of Soft Tissue Grafting:

• Reduced Sensitivity: By covering exposed roots, soft tissue grafting can reduce sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures.
• Improved Gum Health: Grafting can help prevent further gum recession and bone loss, reducing the risk of tooth loss.
• Enhanced Aesthetics: Restoring the natural gum line improves the appearance of the smile, especially in cases of severe recession.
• Better Support: Strengthening the gums around teeth provides better support and stability for the teeth.