Here at the practice of Gary R. Woodall, DDS, MAGD, PA, we specialize in soft tissue grafting and proudly assist patients in Knoxville, TN and the surrounding communities.
Receding Gums & Soft Tissue Grafting
At some point in their lives, many patients will be told that they need a gum graft to protect their teeth from the damaging effects of gum recession. A graft not only restores your oral health, but it also improves the appearance of your smile.
Gum recession happens when the tissue that surrounds a tooth pulls away from it, exposing more of the tooth’s surface or even the tooth root. Many people do not even realize their gums have receded because it can happen so slowly — another reason it is so important to visit your dentist on a regular basis.
If your gums continue to recede, and you don’t get treatment, your teeth will become loose and may eventually fall out. The best way to repair the damage and to prevent any further dental issues is to have soft tissue grafting.
The Procedure
There are three different types of gum tissue grafts:
- Connective tissue grafts are the most common way to treat root exposure. Dr. Woodall will cut a flap of skin from the roof of your mouth and remove a small amount of tissue from underneath it. Then, he will stitch that piece of tissue to the area surrounding the exposed root.
- Free gingival grafts also use tissue from the roof of your mouth. However, instead of making a flap and removing tissue from underneath, Dr. Woodall will take a small amount of tissue directly from the roof of your mouth and attach it to the area that needs treatment. Patients with thin gums who need additional tissue to build them up often receive this type of graft.
- Pedicle grafts take tissue from the gums around or near the exposed tooth. Dr. Woodall will create a flap, called a pedicle, where one edge stays attached. He will then pull the gum tissue over or down to cover the exposed root and stitch it into place. This procedure is only appropriate if a patient has sufficient gum tissue near the tooth.
Your Trusted Dentist in Knoxville, TN
Our entire staff is dedicated to your oral health. We understand the potential issues gum recession can cause and will do everything we can to help you get your oral health back on track. We are always available to answer any questions you have before, during, or after your appointment.
