Types of Gum Graft Surgery for Gum Recession

In the world of periodontal health, the gums are one of the key areas of focus, as they will often accrue large amounts of bacteria overtime and lead to periodontal gum disease amongst other issues. While a condition like periodontitis is definitely an area of concern, there are also a number of cosmetic concerns that can arise as well – meaning patients must not only seek treatment for the condition itself, but they must also deal with remedying the cosmetic effects caused as a result of the gum infection. As the premiere dental implant specialist in Queens, Dr. David Malakov warns patients to look out for a number of different warning signs and changes to the appearance of their teeth and gums, as they deal with periodontal gum issues such as gingivitis. Patients may notice that their teeth have grown especially sensitive to hot and cold temperatures, or their smile appears “longer” than it has in the past, leaving more teeth exposed. And of course there are the more severe warning signs such as bleeding gums and overall pain and discomfort.

Generally when a patient experiences such issues, they have likely been affected by receding gum tissue – leaving more of their teeth exposed, sometimes as far up as the root area. As a dental implant specialist, Dr. Malakov warns patients to pay close attention to the signs like bleeding gums, or exposed roots. While these are most likely caused as a result of periodontal disease, alternative factors that may be contributing to their appearance may be injury, aging, genetics, even overly energetic brushing and poor hygiene habits. Over time this cosmetic issue can lead to more than just unsightly appearance, but issues such as tooth loss, sensitivity, and much more. In order to combat this issue, Dr. Malakov will recommend patients undergo gum graft surgery a periodontal surgery technique, in which patients can have the receded gum tissue replaced using the addition of a thin section of tissue. This new tissue will serve to restore a healthy gumline and protect tooth structure and placement. The method of this periodontal surgery technique we recommend will be based on the specifics of your condition, and what method will work best to improve your gumline. Here are some of the different types of gum graft surgery methods.

· Pedicle Grafts

For those who have a lot of gum tissue near the site to be repaired – a thin flap will be cut in the gum tissue close to the tooth being treated. That piece will be drawn over the root area and sutured into place.

· Free Gingival Grafts

Those with very thin gum tissue may need to add even more tissue in order to create a proper graft. In this instance, tissue will be removed from the roof of the mouth and sutured in place on your gum.

· Connective Tissue Grafts

In the instance, again there may not be enough gum tissue near the treatment area, therefore tissue from beneath the skin on the roof of your mouth can be used. We will then create a flap, remove some connective tissue, and reattach the flap. The connective tissue will be sutured to the gum tissue surrounding the exposed root. This is the most common procedure used for grafting.

As a dental implant specialist, Dr. Malakov may also recommend patients opt for a donor graft, or a specially designed collagen graft. These periodontal surgery grafts will become necessary for some reasons in which it may not be practical to use your own tissue for the graft. No matter what graft works best for you, it is important to have these issues treated as soon as possible, as they can cause further deterioration of the teeth and gums. If you experience any signs including tooth sensitivity, bleeding gums, and other issues, be sure to contact Dr. DAVID MALAKOV immediately to schedule your periodontal care appointment.