A gum graft from an oral surgeon can improve the appearance and health of your smile. Gum recession is a common oral health problem where the gums pull back from the teeth, making them look elongated. This is not just a cosmetic issue. Gum recession can make the tooth roots and underlying structures that support teeth more vulnerable to decay and the negative effects of gum disease.
Gum recession can happen to anyone. It is often the result of poor oral hygiene or gum disease. However, brushing too hard can also cause gums to recede. For genetic or other reasons, gum recession sometimes occurs despite a person's best efforts. Regardless of the cause, a gum graft can restore volume to the gum line, protecting your smile's health.
There are a few different forms of this procedure. However, the oral surgeon typically takes tissue from another part of the patient's mouth and stitches it into the area where it is needed. The procedure is done under local anesthesia, and the recovery period usually takes about a week or two. However, recovery time can vary based on the extent of the procedure.
Though most people would prefer to avoid oral surgery if a gum graft is needed, its benefits usually far outweigh any discomfort. A gum graft can deliver the following results:
When gums recede, teeth can look unnaturally long. Though the main purpose of a gum graft is usually related to oral health needs, the patient may appreciate what the procedure does for their appearance. In addition, a gum graft can bring the aesthetics of the teeth and gums back into balance.
When gums recede and the tooth roots are exposed, patients can first notice sensitivity to hot and cold. This discomfort can be especially troublesome when eating or drinking. A gum graft covers the exposed roots limiting or eliminating this sensitivity.
Gums help protect the teeth against tooth decay, and a gum graft helps to restore this protection. However, gum recession exposes more of the tooth to decay, especially the root. This exposure can make a patient more likely to develop tooth infections that spread and lead to tooth loss and other oral health problems.
As gums recede untreated, the bone and underlying structures are at increased risk of damage from gum disease. Bone loss can occur, leading to tooth loss, among other oral health problems. A gum graft is one of the leading treatments for gum disease that helps to protect the structures that support teeth so patients can keep their smile intact and healthy for a lifetime.
If you are one of the many struggling with some form of gum disease, gum recession is a key concern. If your teeth are starting to feel more sensitive or too much of the teeth are exposed, gum recession may be the cause and will require treatment. However, a gum graft can restore your gum line to help protect your teeth and preserve the look of your smile. Call our office today to learn more about the procedure. Our team is happy to help.
Request an appointment here at http://www.periodontistboca.com or call Thomas A. Copulos DDS, PA at (561) 763-1066 for an appointment in our Boca Raton office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
A dental implant is one tooth replacement option that is available for individuals who are missing a tooth. However, an implant requires a dentist to make an incision into the gums, and it will also take a while for the metal post of the implant to bond with the jawbone. If the patient takes ample…
Dental professionals recommend dental implants as one of the best options for tooth replacement. Implants can be just as long-lasting and functional as real teeth. Now the question remains, who should you consult for dental implant procedures?The dental implant procedure involves placing tiny implants in the jawbone to support a prosthetic tooth replacement. Periodontists are…
Who you choose to do your dental implant procedure matters. A periodontist is a dental specialist who focuses on the health of the gums, jawbone, and supporting structures of the teeth. Their training and experience suit them to perform dental implant procedures, especially in complicated cases.The dental implant procedure involves several steps, including surgery involving…
Dental implants are considered the current “gold standard” for tooth replacement due to the superior benefits they offer patients. Despite their many advantages, they may not be right for everyone. Therefore, patients need to understand the process to make an informed decision.Dental implants are screw-like posts, typically made from titanium, that act as replacement tooth…