Gum Grafting Alternatives
Patients are often surprised when they are made aware of oral issues. Receding gums are a common oral health issue that impacts many patients and can be caused by various things. In some cases, the condition is genetic and unrelated to the patient’s oral hygiene. Once gum tissue is damaged, it cannot regrow and will likely require gum grafting. This outpatient surgical procedure is completed by a dentist or endodontist and helps restore the gums. A summary of the gum grafting procedure and gum grafting alternatives is outlined below.
Gum Grafting
Gum grafting is a relatively minor procedure that is commonly performed to restore receding gums. The procedure begins with the removal of healthy gum tissue and the relocation of that tissue to where the damaged tissue is located. A gum graft works to restore the gums and cover any roots that are exposed. Another common use of gum grafting is prior to a dental implant being placed. The procedure ensures the gums are healthy and able to support the implant as needed.
Alternative Treatments
There are some gum grafting alternatives which are outlined below. Patients should work with their dentist or endodontist to determine if they are a good candidate for any of these alternative treatment options.
Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing is an effective treatment that can be used to treat receding gums. The procedure works by removing plaque and tartar from the teeth and below the gums. Bacteria and plaque that are not removed can harden and turn into tartar, which puts patients at an increased risk for oral health issues such as gum disease. Over time, tartar can cause receding gums and other complications such as the loss of teeth or bone tissue. Scaling and root planing go deeper than a routine cleaning, which can effectively restore damaged gums.
Pinhole Surgical Technique
The pinhole surgical technique (PST) is another alternative to gum grafting and can be highly effective. A tiny hole is made in the gums to correct receding gums. The gums are then loosened with special instruments to move the gums into the desired position. One benefit of this treatment is that it is less invasive than gum grafting. It has gained quite a bit of popularity in recent years. Another benefit of PST is that it offers a quicker recovery time.
Gum Contouring
Gum contouring is another alternative treatment for gum grafting, which some patients may pursue. A special laser is used during the contouring to reshape the gums. A local anesthetic is used to ensure patients remain comfortable during the procedure. Gum contouring can be highly effective in enhancing the gum’s appearance and restoring the patient’s smile. One benefit of this treatment is that it can aid in reducing the pocket depths, making it easier to maintain good oral hygiene and reducing the risk of gum disease. Gum contouring can also be performed along with gum grafting to achieve the desired results.
Bone Regeneration
When patients have receding gums which are severe, they can experience bone loss in their jawbone. In this case, the patient may need to undergo bone regeneration surgery. The procedure begins with the dental professional pulling back the gums to adjust the bone with a bone graft. Unfortunately, this treatment is quite invasive with a long recovery period. As a result, this treatment is reserved for severe cases of periodontitis where patients have substantial bone loss.
Patients with receding gums should call the office today to discuss whether they may be a good candidate for gum grafting or an alternative treatment that can help restore their damaged gums. The team can evaluate your oral health and determine which treatment will best meet your needs.