What Are the Benefits of Gum Grafting?

When gum disease is left untreated and progresses into more advanced stages, gum recession occurs. This will cause the gumline to shrink and the tooth roots to become exposed. At Premier Periodontics, we perform soft tissue and gum grafting to improve how the gumline looks and to protect these tooth roots from sensitivity and pain. Our periodontal specialists use different techniques for gum recession treatment that is personalized to each patient. If you have receding gums, our professional team at Premier Periodontics can help fix them. Contact one of our convenient locations in Bellevue, Everett, Kirkland, Mercer Island, Olympia, or Redmond, WA to schedule an appointment to learn more about treatments for gum recession.

What is gum recession?

Gum recession is when the margin of gum tissue that surrounds a tooth is pulled back or, in severe cases, is worn away. This exposes both the tooth and the tooth root. When this occurs, the tooth roots lack the protection they need, leading to sensitivity. Pockets form between teeth and the gumline, which make it more likely to develop harmful bacteria there. When this is left untreated, the supporting tissue and bone holding a tooth can be damaged and, in severe cases, lost entirely. The first sign of gum recession is usually tooth sensitivity. When you believe your gums are receding, it’s important to make an appointment to discuss the treatment options available to you at Premier Periodontics.

Who needs gum grafting?

Those who are experiencing gum recession due to periodontal disease need gum grafting. When the tooth roots are exposed, they put you at risk for tooth decay, infection, and bone loss. Gum grafts are performed to repair this gum recession. A consultation with our periodontal specialist at Premier Periodontics can help you to decide if your smile can benefit from gum recession treatment.

Why do gums recede?

There are many reasons why the gums recede, including:

• Periodontal disease: This gum infection is caused by harmful bacteria that destroys gum tissue and the bone that holds your teeth in place. This is the leading cause of gum recession.

• Poor oral hygiene: Not brushing and flossing often enough, or poorly, can make it easy for plaque to turn into tartar, which leads to receding gums. Also, if you brush your teeth too hard, it can wear away the enamel on your teeth, making you more susceptible to receding gums.

• Hormonal changes: Pregnancy and menopause can make the gums more sensitive and likely to develop gum disease.

• Teeth grinding or clenching: This puts too much force on the teeth, which can cause gum recession.

• Misaligned bite: When you have a poor bite, too much force is placed on the gums and the bone.

How does gum grafting work?

At Premier Periodontics, we use different graft types during gum grafting surgery, including free gingival, connective tissue, and pedicle grafts. This will be determined by each patient and their needs. While this is a minimally invasive procedure, we do numb the treatment areas with local anesthesia. Our periodontal specialists make a pinhole-sized opening, known as the Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique (PST).

Through this opening in the gums, we gently move receded tissues back to where it belongs through the entry point. This will successfully cover the exposed roots. Returning a patient’s gums to a better place instantly protects them. Thin pieces of collagen may be used between the teeth and gums to hold the gumline in its new location while it heals. After the process is done, the entry point is closed, and you will be asked to rinse out with an antibacterial mouthwash. Minor swelling may occur in the first few days following gum grafting. However, it should quickly resolve itself.

Learn more about gum grafting and how it can improve your smile

Premier Periodontics performs gum grafting to help our patients to repair their gum recession. It is the best way to improve a smile and oral health at the same time. When you have receding gums, it’s important that you schedule an appointment with our periodontal specialists at one of our locations in Bellevue, Everett, Kirkland, Mercer Island, Olympia, or Redmond, WA to quickly resolve your dental issue.