4 Types of Gum Grafting

Tooth decay isn’t the only threat to your dental health. Gum disease can wreak havoc on your oral and general health. Although gum disease is easy to treat during the earliest stage, gingivitis, it can progress quickly with no treatment. The infection can cause your gum line to recede, exposing the roots of your teeth. Your teeth and underlying structures will be vulnerable to bacteria if too much tissue is lost. Your periodontist may recommend gum grafting to keep tooth loss at bay. Your gum disease specialist will determine which type of graft is necessary to restore a healthy smile.

Connective Tissue Graft

If you don’t have enough gum tissue to cover the tooth roots, a connective tissue graft may be used. It’s the most common type, which creates a small pouch in the gums. Your periodontist makes a small incision in the roof of your mouth. This creates a flap, giving them access to a thin layer of connective tissue underneath. A small layer of tissue is removed and placed into the gum pouch. The roof of your mouth is stitched closed and the graft will heal as it receives nutrients for the small pocket, which will grow over exposed tooth roots. 

Free Soft Tissue Autogenous Graft

Patients with thin gums or those needing extra tissue can benefit from a free soft tissue autogenous graft. It is like a connective tissue graft. A small pouch is created in the gums and tissue is taken directly from the upper palate, instead of from underneath a flap. The tissue is placed at the base of the root inside the pouch.

Double Papilla Subepithelial Graft

If there’s no gum tissue attached to the tooth root, but there’s healthy tissue near the surrounding teeth, a double papilla subepithelial graft can be used. An incision is made in healthy papilla on either side of the affected tooth. The papilla is lifted slightly and a flap incision is made in the roof of the mouth to get a layer of connective tissue. The harvested tissue is placed beside the tooth under the raised papilla. The papilla on either side of the tooth is stitched together to cover the root.

Pedicle Graft

Patients with healthy tissue around surrounding teeth can benefit from a pedicle graft if their gums have exposed a tooth root. Gum tissue from above or below the tooth is detached partially and pulled over the treatment area, which is sutured in place. The tissue will appear stretched but will regain normal thickness as the tissue heals.

You can invest in your oral and general health by restoring a healthy gum line. Your periodontist will create the personalized plan you need to restore damage caused by gum disease.

About Dr. Frano Cordini

Dr. Cordini earned his dental degree from Creighton University School of Dentistry and completed his periodontics training at the University of Louisville. He has over 20 years of experience in periodontics. If you need gum grafting, request an appointment through our website or call (502) 317-1122.