Gum Grafting

Many patients will notice with time that they have developed areas where their gum tissue has worn away and exposed yellow tooth roots. This can be unsightly and may even be painful when nerves in the roots are exposed as well. The loss of gum tissue can result as a normal consequence following orthodontic treatment. This loss of gum tissue, or gum recession, can also be hereditary and passed down from parents to children. It is made worse by rough brushing habits. When roots become exposed the root structure can wear away with time and in some cases may lead to tooth loss when left untreated. Gingival (gum) grafts are a simple solution to help treat existing tissue loss and prevent future tissue, root structure, and tooth loss.

The patient receiving a gum graft can be sedated or put asleep in the comfort of Dr. Gregory’s office. The gum tissue may be repaired by taking a small sample of tissue from the patient’s own mouth and using it to graft the area in question. Or the gum may be repaired by material that is provided in Dr. Gregory’s office as well, preventing patients from having a second “sore spot” the day of treatment.