Stop Your Gum Recession Today
Healthy gums are integral to maintaining your smile. That’s why when they begin to recede, it can pose a threat to your oral health. As a result, gum recession can cause your teeth to become sensitive and exposed to further bacteria and infections. Thankfully, at Contemporary Dental Arts, our expert team offers soft tissue grafting to restore your gum line and preserve your smile’s health.
Most patients think soft tissue grafting is painful — that’s simply not the case. With this simple procedure, you can reverse potential damage caused by gum disease while also avoiding other invasive treatments in the process.
Read our guide below to learn more about the benefits of soft tissue grafting.
What Is Soft Tissue Grafting?
Soft tissue grafting is a straightforward procedure designed to correct receding gums that’s caused by periodontitis (gum disease). During your treatment, one of our dentists will remove a piece of soft tissue from your mouth to cover the exposed area of your tooth. Over a period of one to three weeks, the implanted soft tissue will slowly integrate with your gums. Our soft tissue grafting procedure doesn’t last longer than 1.5 hours.
While gum recession might be an apparent cosmetic issue, it can also cause further complications with your teeth, including abrasion, decay, and serious infection. That’s why it’s important to consider a soft tissue grafting treatment at our San Jose office to reduce any gum damage.
Benefits of Soft Tissue Grafting
Soft tissue grafting can repair any portion of lost gum tissue to recreate your smile. This treatment is also effective in reversing the damage caused by gum disease.
Other benefits of soft tissue grafting include:
- It protects your exposed tooth from bacteria and infection
- Reduces the risk of tooth decay and cavities
- Improves the strength of your oral health
- Can improve your smile’s appearance
Types of Soft Tissue Grafting Procedures
There are several types of gum grafting procedures that patients can benefit from depending on their oral health needs. During your initial consultation with one of our dentists at our San Jose office, they’ll be able to create a treatment plan that works best for your smile.
Connective Tissue Graft
Connective tissue grafting restores your gum line by attaching tissue that’s taken from the roof of your mouth by your dentist. This operation is less invasive compared to the free gingival graft and is the most common procedure that patients will undergo.
Free Gingival Graft
Free gingival grafting is done by removing a small piece of soft tissue from the roof of your mouth. Your dentist will use this tissue and attach it to the gum area affected by recession. This treatment option is typically recommended if you’re at risk of further gum recession.
Pedicle Graft
Pedicle grafting is the least invasive procedure and is used for less severe cases of gum recession. Your dentist will create a flap in your gums near the affected area in order to reverse any sensitivity that your teeth may have. As a result, it’s important to have plenty of soft tissue available near the treated area.
Am I a Candidate for Soft Tissue Grafting?
During your consultation with one of our expert dentists, they’ll evaluate your oral health to determine which type of gum grafting is best for your unique dental needs. This includes looking at your gum line and the health of your teeth. You’ll also be able to ask any questions you may have about the procedure as well as voice any additional concerns.
While soft tissue grafting is used to reverse cases of gum disease, it can also be used as a supplemental procedure for other restorative treatments including dental implants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does soft tissue grafting hurt?
Soft tissue grafting doesn’t hurt at all since your dentist will apply a local anesthetic. Our San Jose office also offers sedation options so that you won’t have to feel any pain or discomfort as your gums are being treated. Any sensitivity you feel afterwards can be easily treated with over-the-counter pain medications as well as cold compresses.
Will my insurance pay for soft tissue grafting?
Most dental insurance companies will cover a portion of your soft tissue grafting procedure depending on the medical reason. Our staff at Contemporary Dental Arts recommends contacting your provider to get an accurate understanding of your policy and coverage. During your consultation with one of our dentists, they’ll give you an estimate of your treatment.
Improve Your Smile’s Appearance Today
Renew your oral health and reverse gum recession by having a soft tissue graft. Our expert dentists can combat your gum disease symptoms and leave you with a stunning smile ready for any social situation. Reclaim your oral health today by scheduling an appointment at Contemporary Dental Arts in San Jose, CA by calling (408) 253-4150 or filling out our online contact form.
