What is a Periodontics CTG?
Connective Tissue Grafting (CTG) is a common treatment used to repair receding gums. The procedure involves transferring healthy tissue obtained from the palate of the mouth to the area affected by recession. CTG has proven to be highly successful and is an effective, long lasting, time tested treatment used for the treatment of receding gums. The procedure used for CTG gives patients optimal long-term results and can be used a wide variety of cases. The dental professional will often work diligently to select the procedure which is the least invasive and offers excellent results. However, some situations still require traditional gum grafting rather than using CTG. In areas where the gum’s tissue is quite thin for example, a CTG approach is typically ideal. Other techniques such as pinhole or dermal matrix may not be as effective when the patient suffers from extremely thin gum tissue. These solutions are also not ideal in cases where the gum tissue requires thickening around an implant or a tooth.
A connective tissue graft (CTG) is a gum grafting technique which is quickly gaining popularity. CTG is commonly used in cases of receding gums, an exposed root, thin gums, and cases where there are aesthetic concerns from dark colored roots.
The CTG technique has some of the best outcomes aesthetically because the graft is placed below the existing gum. As a result, the color perfectly match when comparing the grafted area and the surrounding natural tissues. This technique also achieves the optimal root coverage. The periodontist will usually obtain the connective tissue graft from the tissue in the palate behind the upper teeth on the roof of the mouth. It can be used alone or in combination with regenerative biologics such as amelogenin protein (EMD) and platelet-rich fibrin (PRF).
In most cases, the grafting procedure will take approximately an hour. Once the graft area has healed, the gums will look natural and be significantly stronger. During the healing process, the gum tissue will seal tightly around the teeth. The gums help protect the body from harmful bacteria in addition to bacteria byproducts. The connective tissue graft will give your smile a more youthful appearance and allows patients to comfortably eat and drink without pain or severe sensitivity.
The VISTA Technique
Periodontal plastic surgery has made significant advancements in recent years. Modern technology and new techniques offer less invasive approaches and successful cover the root surfaces. This provides patients with a more attractive smile. One of the new techniques which can be used is VISTA soft tissue grafting. VISTA stands for Vestibular Incision Subperiosteal Tunnel Access. The VISTA technique uses an incredibly small access hole placed in the gum tissue to loosen the gums along the teeth where additional root coverage is required.
Patients who believe they have receding gums or who have been told their gums are receding should follow up with a dental professional to discuss next steps. The periodontist is properly trained, qualified, and has the necessary experience to complete connective tissue grafting procedures. Following the procedure, patients will be happy with their improved appearance and restored function.