If you are dealing with receding gums, you may be a candidate for the gingival graft procedure also known as gum grafting surgery. When gums recede, the root of the tooth is exposed, which can lead to increased sensitivity, decay, bone degeneration, and eventually, tooth loss. At Dominion Street Dental in Alliston, ON, Dr. Oksana Vozna offers the gingival graft procedure. Call 705-435-4124 for a consultation.
Causes of gum recession
Many individuals with receding gums are unaware of the issue initially because the process occurs gradually over time. Eventually, the exposed tooth root will begin impacting the appearance of the smile and cause sensitivity to hot and cold.
Periodontal disease is the most common cause of receding gum tissue. Other risk factors include smoking, hormones, teeth grinding, crooked teeth, or lip and tongue piercings.
Alliston, ON dentist, explains gum grafting treatment
There are several different types of gum grafting procedures. Your Allison, ON dentist will help you determine which one is best based on your needs.
Connective-tissue grafts – In this type of gum graft surgery, the dentist will make an incision and cut a flap in the palate of the mouth. From there, they will remove a portion of the tissue underneath the flap. This tissue is then stitched to cover the exposed tooth root and the flap on the palate is stitched back down.
Free-gingival grafts – In this type of gum graft surgery, instead of removing tissue from underneath the flap, the tissue is removed directly from the palate and attached to the area being treated.
Pedicle graft – In this type of gum graft, tissue is taken from around the from the gums near the area being repaired. The flap is only partially cut and then the gum tissue is pulled to cover the exposed root and sewn into place.
In some cases, sterile collagen from the package can be used for grafting. This saves the roof of the mouth from harvesting the graft and is more comfortable for the patient.
The Cost of Gum Grafting in Alliston, ON
After your consultation, our team will be able to provide an estimate of the cost.
To learn more about gum graft surgery and how it works, call Dominion Street Dental in Alliston, ON today at 705-435-4124.