Soft Tissue Grafting

Periodontics: Soft Tissue Grafting

Soft tissue grafting is often necessary to combat gum recession. Periodontal disease, trauma, overbrushing, and poor tooth positioning are the leading causes of gum recession which can lead to tooth-root exposure in severe cases.

When the roots of the teeth become exposed, eating hot and cold foods can be uncomfortable, decay is more prevalent and the aesthetic appearance of the smile is altered. The goals of soft tissue grafting are to cover the exposed root to strengthen the existing gum tissue in order to halt further tissue loss.

The three different types of common soft tissue grafts include:

• Free gingival graft - A strip of tissue is removed from the roof of the mouth and stitched to the grafting site in order to promote natural growth. This type of graft is most commonly used for strengthen existing tissue in non-esthetic areas.
• Connective tissue graft - For esthetic areas with root exposure, subepithelial tissue is needed to remedy the problem. This subepithelial connective tissue is removed from a small flap in the roof of the mouth and sutured to the grafting site. For large areas, or if a donor site is to be avoided, sometimes a processed donated material can be used (an allograft).
• Pedicle graf - his type of graft involves the “sharing” of soft tissue between the affected site and adjacent gum. A flap section of gum tissue next to the tooth with the recession is loosened and repositioned sideways to cover the root.

Reasons for soft tissue grafting

Soft tissue grafting is an extremely versatile procedure that has many uses. Recent developments in dental technology have made soft tissue grafting more predictable and less intrusive. Here are some of the main benefits associated with soft tissue grafting treatment:

• Increased comfort - Root exposure can cause substantial pain and discomfort. Eating hot, cold or even warm foods can cause severe discomfort. Soft tissue grafts cover the exposed root, decrease sensitivity and restore good health to the gum area.
• Improved aesthetics - Gum recession due to periodontal disease can cause the smile to look “toothy” or the teeth to appear uneven in size. Soft tissue grafting can be used as a cosmetic procedure to re-augment the gums, and make the smile appear more symmetrical.
• Improved gum health - Recession is very often progessive, by strengthening the gum tissue this progression can be stopped.