Practice Limited to Periodontics & Dental Implants

3415 S Lafountain
Suite K
Kokomo, IN 46902

Tel:
(765) 864-0700

Toll Free:
(800) 303-2998

Treatment of Gum Recession

Gum, or gingival, recession occurs when the gum tissue pulls away from the tooth leaving an exposed root surface.  This root surface can be sensitive to cold, hot and sweets. It can also be an aesthetic problem.  When gum recession is a problem, gum reconstruction using grafting techniques is an option.

Soft tissue grafting is a surgical procedure which is performed to rebuild the lost gingival tissue.  It is not needed in all situations involving soft tissue recession.  Dr. Wiland will be able to tell you if soft tissue grafting is needed in your particular case. 

A soft tissue graft is designed to solve these problems. The soft tissue graft may be placed in such a way as to cover the exposed portion of the root.  A thin piece of tissue may be taken from the roof of the mouth, to provide a stable band of healthy tissue around the tooth.   In cases where there is very thin tissue in the roof of the mouth, or the patient prefers not to use tissue from this area, acellular dermal matrix from a tissue bank may be used.

The soft tissue graft procedure is highly predictable and results in a stable healthy band of gingival tissue around the tooth.  Furthermore, it covers exposed root surface and improves the appearance of the tooth. 

Read more about soft tissue grafting at the American Academy of Periodontology website by clicking here.

 

To view a brochure on soft tissue grafting click here.

 

You will need the Adobe Acrobat Reader to print and view the brochure. Click on

this icon to download Acrobat Reader, if you do not already have it.

 

These are examples of soft tissue grafts