There are several types of gum grafting procedures, each is best used for different situations. Two of the most common are connective tissue grafts and a free gingival grafts. They are each used for different situations yet the biggest difference is what kind of gum tissue is being used. Subepithelial connective tissue grafting uses a particular type of gum tissue, connective tissue, to work. This tissue is actually under other layers of gum tissue and it serves a very different role than the gum tissue in your mouth that is visible. A free gingival graft uses the surface layer of gum tissue as a donor.
Receding gums can cause a number of serious oral health problems. Gum grafting procedures like connective tissue grafting are designed to prevent these negative effects and restore gum tissue where it is needed. A receding gum line can cause enough root exposure on a tooth that can cause bone loss that will weaken the teeth and eventually lead to tooth loss. Receding gums are also unattractive and the root exposure can cause discomfort, especially sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures.
With connective tissue grafting it helps to think of the donor site for gum tissue, normally the roof of your mouth, as a layered cake. The connective tissue is underneath the other layers, so basically you lift the cake up and take the bottom layers. You then move those layers over to the recipient site where there is not enough gum tissue. While this is important to your oral health there are some disadvantages. You know that feeling when you burn the roof of your mouth with really hot pizza? Many people describe the same feeling after the surgery. Other options like Alloderm grafting procedure use specially prepared donor tissue and no gum tissue is needed from your own mouth.
If you are interested in learning more about the connective tissue grafting and would like to discuss your options with dentist in the Atlanta area consider visiting the Atlanta Dental Group PC. Our Atlanta dentists have over 45 years of combined experience serving Atlanta's dental needs. Our dentists in Georgia are dedicated to their patients' good health and well being and you are more than welcome to join our family of patients. Our Atlanta DDS enjoys creating beatiful smiles for his patients. If you would like schedule an free dental consultation appointment with Atlanta dentist, call our office at to make an appointment at 404-874-7428.