Improve Oral Health with Gum Grafting for Gum Disease
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is an infection that causes inflammation of oral tissues. Gum disease is a progressive condition. As gum disease advances, it frequently results in gum recession or a lifting of the gum tissues. Recession can create gaps between the gum tissues and the crowns of the teeth, which exposes the tooth’s roots.
There are several dental treatments for gum disease. If gum recession develops, gum grafting may be necessary. A gum graft addresses gum disease to improve oral health and close gaps created by gum recession. Here, the dentists at Fairfax Family Dental Care in Fairfax, VA, discuss how you can improve your oral health with gum grafting for gum disease.
What Is a Gum Graft?
A gum graft is performed to replace oral tissues lost to gum recession. During a gum graft procedure, tissue is taken from one area of the mouth and transplanted to areas where the recession has occurred.
Most often, a gum graft involves the use of connective tissue grafts, which are underlying tissues taken from the roof of the mouth. If necessary, the procedure can also be performed with free gingival grafts (surface tissues from the roof of the mouth) or pedicle grafts (adjacent gum tissues). Transplanted tissues are held in place with sutures until they heal and integrate with surrounding tissues.
Oral Health Benefits of a Gum Graft
A gum graft is performed after gum disease is treated and signs of infection are eliminated. The procedure promotes new tissue growth to restore a full and healthy gum line. A gum graft provides several oral health benefits to our Fairfax patients, including the prevention of advanced periodontal disease, prevention of root canal infection, minimization of tooth sensitivity, elimination of halitosis, and reduced risk of tooth loss.
Prevent Advanced Periodontal Disease
Gum disease is a progressive condition. Without treatment, infection worsens and can eventually weaken the teeth and bone tissues. A gum graft prevents advanced periodontal disease by sealing periodontal pockets and blocking bacteria from reaching underlying gum and bone tissues.
Prevent Root Canal Infection
Gum disease and root canal infection are both caused by bacteria, so the two are frequently linked. Gum recession exposes a tooth’s root system, which allows bacteria to reach tissues and cause an infection. By closing periodontal gaps, a gum graft can prevent root canal infection.
Minimize Tooth Sensitivity
The teeth are protected by an outer layer of tooth enamel that blocks the sensitive nerves and tissues at a tooth’s core. Unfortunately, gum recession exposes sensitive tissues near the tooth’s roots and leaves teeth sensitive to pressure and hot and cold temperatures. A gum graft treats recession to protect the tooth’s roots and minimize sensitivity.
Eliminate Halitosis
Halitosis, or persistent bad breath, is a common symptom of infection. A gum graft encourages healing after periodontal treatment and protects exposed tissues to eliminate halitosis and restore fresh breath.
Reduce the Risk of Tooth Loss
The gums are the foundation of the smile. Gums provide a stable base to support the teeth. Gum recession compromises that support system and can lead to loose teeth or tooth loss. A gum graft strengthens the gum line, restores a strong foundation for the teeth, and reduces the risk of tooth loss.
Contact Us
If you have suffered from gum recession, a gum graft may be the best way to restore oral health and protect the teeth from further dental complications. To learn more about a gum graft procedure, contact Fairfax Family Dental Care and schedule an appointment with one of our experienced dentists.
