How Do Gum Grafts Work?
Gum grafting is periodontal surgery technique that can help people who have experienced gum recession. Gum recession is when the gum surrounding the tooth has pulled away, due to gingivitis, Periodontitis, aggressive brushing, or genetics, causing the roots of the teeth to become exposed.
If you need gum grafts or would like a free consultation to learn more about them, please contact Dr. Madison by calling (310)553-2940.
Gum recession can make the teeth more sensitive to hot and cold food and drinks. Besides pain, receding gums can also make teeth more susceptible to cavities on the exposed roots. Gum grafts are used to replace gum that has been lost, alleviating the discomforting symptoms.
During a gum graft procedure, a small strip of gum tissue is taken from your palate or another donor source to cover the exposed root. This can be done for one tooth or several teeth to even your gum line and reduce sensitivity. The unique gum graft techniques perfected by Dr. Madison can correct most gum defects effectively, and comfortably.
Types of Gum Grafts
Gum grafting helps cover the exposed tooth and root, as well as help prevent cavities. Gum grafting can also have a cosmetic effect, reducing the appearance of a "long tooth."
Different techniques are available for gum grafting. There are different patient variables that should be evaluated carefully by the periodontist to determine the ideal technique for each patient. Ideally the periodontist should be versed in all of these techniques so that he or she can use the right technique for each case. Unfortunately if a periodontist is only comfortable with one or two techniques then he or she might use the wrong approach in correcting a gum recession defect.
Periodontists are the only dentists that are properly trained to perform gum graft procedures. Because gum graft procedures are extremely technique sensitive it should only be done by periodontist and not by other dentists.
When done properly, and with appropriate follow up care, gum grafts can last a lifetime. The procedure is also relatively easy on the patient. Quite often, patients return to work the next day with nothing more than over-the-counter pain pills (ibuprofen) for post-operative medication.
To get more information please visit our website at www.beverlyhillsperio.com for additional information. We welcome all of your questions and comments.
If you would like to schedule an appointment for gum grafts or would like to learn more with a free consultation, please contact Dr. Madison by calling (310)553-2940.
If you have any other questions or comments regarding this article, please contact us at (310) 553-2940 or by email at beverlyhillsperio@gmail.com.
Dr. Miles Madison, D.D.S., is an award-winning periodontist in Beverly Hills, California.
