What are Gum Grafts?
Gum grafts are dental procedures which are used to replace receding gums. A number of things can contribute to gum recession including periodontal disease and excessive toothbrushing, and while the problem starts out as cosmetic in nature, it can lead to serious health issues if not addressed. Gum grafts use either soft or hard tissue, depending on the location, to restore the gum line. Because recovery from gum grafts is painful, patients should plan to take some time off after gum grafts to heal. The dental term for gum tissue is gingiva, and there are actually two types of gingiva in the mouth. Gingiva mucosa is soft, flexible tissue, while keratinized gingiva is a much harder material, designed to protect the roots of the teeth. When gums begin to recede, the soft tissue usually disappears first. If caught early, a soft tissue gum graft can be performed with soft tissue from other areas of the mouth or another donor. The soft tissue graft will restore the gum line, and by working w
Gum grafts are dental procedures which are used to replace receding gums. A number of things can contribute to gum recession including periodontal disease and excessive toothbrushing, and while the problem starts out as cosmetic in nature, it can lead to serious health issues if not addressed. Gum grafts use either soft or hard tissue, depending on the location, to restore the gum line. Because recovery from gum grafts is painful, patients should plan to take some time off after gum grafts to heal. The dental term for gum tissue is gingiva, and there are actually two types of gingiva in the mouth. Gingiva mucosa is soft, flexible tissue, while keratinized gingiva is a much harder material, designed to protect the roots of the teeth. When gums begin to recede, the soft tissue usually disappears first. If caught early, a soft tissue gum graft can be performed with soft tissue from other areas of the mouth or another donor.
