What is Gum Grafting?
As most of us know from conversations with our dentist about periodontal (gum) care, gum loss or recession is a common phenomenon. The loss of gum tissue is usually associated with poor dental hygiene, periodontal disease or our normal aging process. As the gums recede from the teeth, the teeth begin to appear longer and the face appears older. More than simply a cosmetic issue, however, gum loss can eventually result in the exposure of a portion of the tooth’s root, causing pain and sensitivity and the potential for damage to the root itself. The loss of gum tissue also strips away one of your mouth’s most important defense mechanisms against harmful bacteria. Anytime gum loss is significant, gum grafting may be recommended to improve your appearance and the overall health of your teeth. Gum grafting involves the reconstruction of gum tissue that has been lost by replacing it with “donor” tissue from another part of the mouth (usually the roof). Replacing the lost tissue will not only
