Dental soft tissue grafting is a versatile procedure designed to address a variety of oral health issues related to gum tissue. At Perio Implant Chicago, Drs. Peter Cabrera and Bahareh Sabzehei specialize in this procedure, offering effective solutions for patients experiencing gum recession, discomfort, and aesthetic concerns.
Reasons for Soft Tissue Grafting
- Increased Comfort: One of the primary reasons for soft tissue grafting is to alleviate discomfort caused by exposed tooth roots. When gums recede, the sensitive roots of the teeth become exposed, leading to pain and sensitivity while eating or drinking. By covering these exposed roots with grafted tissue, patients can experience significant relief from sensitivity and restore comfort to their daily lives.
- Improved Aesthetics: Gum recession can create a “toothier” appearance, where the gums do not align well with the teeth, leading to an uneven or unsightly smile. Soft tissue grafting can correct this issue by covering the exposed roots and restoring a more balanced and symmetrical gum line, enhancing the overall appearance of the smile.
- Improved Gum Health: Periodontal disease and other conditions can lead to the destruction of gum tissue, leaving tooth roots exposed and contributing to bone loss. Grafting helps to rebuild the gum tissue, improving gum health and providing protection to the underlying bone structure. This not only enhances the appearance but also supports the long-term health and wellness of the smile.
Types of Common Soft Tissue Grafts
At Perio Implant Chicago, several types of soft tissue grafts are commonly performed, including:
- Free Gingival Graft: Involves taking a small piece of gum tissue from one area of the mouth and grafting it to the area needing treatment.
- Connective Tissue Graft: Tissue is taken from under the skin of the roof of the mouth and placed over the exposed roots.
- Pedicle Graft: Gum tissue is moved from an adjacent area to cover the exposed root, using a flap technique.
- Allograft Gum Graft: Uses donor tissue from a tissue bank to perform the grafting procedure.
- Pinhole Technique: A minimally invasive method that involves making a small incision and repositioning existing gum tissue without removing it.
What to Expect from the Procedure
Before the soft tissue grafting procedure, a thorough dental cleaning will be performed to remove tartar, plaque, and bacteria from the gum line. Local anesthetics are used to ensure patient comfort during the procedure. The periodontist makes precise incisions, places the donor tissue, and sutures the area. In some cases, platelet-rich plasma may be used to stimulate natural tissue growth and promote faster healing.
Soft tissue grafting is a powerful tool for improving gum health, comfort, and aesthetics. If you are experiencing gum recession or other related issues, consult with Drs. Cabrera and Sabzehei to explore how soft tissue grafting can benefit you.
If you would like more information about soft tissue grafting, or the pinhole technique, call Dr. Cabrera in Chicago, IL at 312-994-7939 or visit www.perioimplantchicago.com.
Dr. Cabrera proudly serves Chicago and all surrounding areas.