Gum Grafting Procedures San Francisco CA

San Francisco Bay Periodontics

When the 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 a 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.

The biggest concern with receding gums is the risk of decay, infection, and loss that occurs when the roots of the teeth become exposed. If gum recession is detected at an early stage, a treatment called gum grafting can stop or reverse the process of recession.

Connective Tissue Grafts

The most common procedure for treating gum exposure is Connective Tissue Grafting. This treatment involves excising a flap of skin at the roof of your mouth and removing tissue from underneath the flap. That connective tissue is then stitched to the gum tissue surrounding the exposed root, and the flap on the roof of your mouth is stitched back down.

Free Gingival Grafts

Free Gingival Grafts are most often used for people that have thin gums and need to enlarge them. This procedure is similar to Connective Tissue grafts in that tissue is removed from the roof of the mouth. However, no flap is made—the tissue is taken directly from the roof of the mouth.

A More Comfortable Alternative

At San Francisco Bay Periodontics, we specialize in a gum grafting surgical technique that causes minimal tissue injury. Traditional grafting that requires harvesting from the palate can be uncomfortable, but our unique, atraumatic treatment involves the implementation of different biologic materials, including growth factors, to facilitate healing and optimize expected results. We typically recommend our patients use homeopathic Arnica before and after the procedure which helps tremendously with possible post-operative swelling, bruising and pain.

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. 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 attached tissue around the tooth.

Do You Have Receding Gums?

A gingival graft can solve problems resulting from gum recession. Schedule a consultation to learn more.

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Additional Information

Additional Information