Soft Tissue Graft

Soft tissue grafts are performed when there is recession at the gum line. Gum recession most commonly occurs because of aggressive tooth brushing. It can also occur as a result of subepithelial periodontal disease, after orthodontics or because of other factors such as a misaligned bite and micro-movements of teeth. Gum recession can lead to exposed root surfaces and “long looking teeth”. Exposed roots can sometimes be sensitive to hot and cold foods and liquids. They may be more susceptible to decay and the accumulation of bacterial plaque due to the uneven gum line. There are 5 cases where gum grafts are clinically indicated: root sensitivity, rapid progression of recession, anatomically thin tissue, aesthetics or cases where orthodontics or other complex restorations are involved. Tissue is obtained from the roof of your mouth and “transplanted” onto the area of recession. Capillaries slowly grow in and integrate the new gum tissue with the surrounding tissue. The new tissue repairs the gum defect by covering the exposed root surface and prevents additional recession and bone loss by reinforcing the gum line with tissue that is more resistant to recession.

A gum graft is also an excellent way to improve a “toothy smile”. A “toothy smile” is where there is proportionately more tooth showing than gum tissue showing. The natural proportion can be re-established by grafting gum tissue to cover excess tooth surface then contouring it to be esthetically natural.

Subepithelial Connective Tissue Graft