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 reconstruction using grafting techniques is an option.
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. However, when recession reaches the mucosa, the first line of defense against bacterial penetration is lost.
In addition, gum recession often results in root sensitivity to hot and cold foods as well as an unsightly appearance of the gum and tooth. When significant, gum recession can predispose to worsening recession and expose the root surface, which is softer than enamel, leading to root caries and root gouging.
A gingival graft is designed to solve these problems. The gingival graft procedure can be accomplished in two ways: using the patient’s own tissue or using a donor collagen tissue. The donor collagen tissue procedure has the benefit of not having gum tissues removed from the palate or other areas of the mouth. It is the preferred method of treatment by Dr. Carlton. There is significantly less discomfort with this procedure and excellent results. This procedure may require microsurgical technique and operating microscopes for best results.
With the less desirable procedure, 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. The gingival graft may be placed in such a way as to cover the exposed portion of the root.
The gingival graft procedure is highly predictable and results in a stable, healthy band of thick attached tissue around the tooth.