Gingival Grafting

Terminology

In a healthy mouth, teeth are surrounded by gingiva (gum) and mucosa tissue. Gingiva tissue is pink, thick, and dense under a microscope. This tissue forms a tight seal around the teeth serving as a barrier against the penetration of bacteria to the underlying supporting bone. The gingiva also helps to withstand trauma from eating and brushing. The second type of tissue, mucosa, is found directly below gingiva. Mucosa tissue is red, very thin, and appears loose under a microscope. It does not seal tightly around the tooth, nor does it withstand trauma very well.

Before gingival grafting

After gingival grafting > more case studies

Reasons for Gingival Grafts

When recession of the gingiva occurs, the body loses a natural defense against both bacterial penetration and trauma. When gum recession is a problem gum is an important option to restoring the missing gums. When there is only minor recession, some healthy gingiva often remains and protects the tooth, so that no treatment other than modifying home care practices is necessary. But, when recession reaches the mucosa, the first line of defense against bacterial penetration is lost. For this type of gingival recession, a gingival graft is usually required. At this stage, no matter how meticulously the patient tries to control the bacteria, there is a greater chance of bacteria penetrating and affecting the underlying supporting bone around the tooth. In addition, gum recession often results in root sensitivity to hot and cold foods as well as an unsightly appearance of the exposed root. Also, gum recession, when significant, can predispose to worsening recession and expose the root surface, which is softer than enamel, leading to root caries or root decay and root gouging.

What is a Gingival Graft?

A gingival graft is designed to solve these problems. A thin piece of tissue is taken from the roof of the mouth, or gently moved over from adjacent areas, to provide a stable band of attached gingiva around the tooth. This barrier prevents further recession and infection. This process also eliminates marginal inflammation, which is usually associated with a mucosal marginal gingival tissue.

How much time does it take to perform the Procedure?

The visit to perform a gingival graft takes about 60 minutes. The stitches dissolve approximately one week later. One or two10 minute check-ups may be required to ensure the area has healed properly.

Is the Procedure Painful?

You may experience minor discomfort following the procedure. During the procedure local anesthetic, and sometimes conscious sedation, are administered to keep you comfortable and free of pain. Pain medication will be prescribed to control any discomfort you might experience after the surgery.

Benefits of Gingival Grafting

The gingival graft procedure is highly predictable, and results in a stable, healthy band of attached tissue. This added tissue reseals and protects the tooth and underlying bone. Both the graft site and the donor site will heal properly since the connective tissue contains the same genetic coding.

In comparison to other forms of periodontal treatment, gingival grafts produce the following results.

• Reduction of sensitivity
• Improvement of esthetics
• Prevention of cavities in the root
• Prevention of erosion
• Restoration of original gum contours
• Prevention of further recession

Case Report #2
Before gingival grafting	After gingival grafting
Case Report #3
Before gingival grafting	After gingival grafting