GINGIVAL GRAFTING

When the root of your tooth is exposed, this is called gum recession

The gums play such an important role in your mouth and making sure that they’re healthy is a crucial part of maintaining overall oral health. One condition to be watchful for is receding gums, in which the gums pull back from the tooth, exposing the root of the tooth. Receding gums is a relatively common dental issue and sometimes can be an early sign of gum disease.

There are many factors that can contribute to gum recession, and they vary from person to person. Some of the most common causes include untreated periodontal disease, aggressive toothbrushing habits, teeth grinding or clenching, crooked teeth or a misaligned bite, an oral piercing and orthodontic and restorative appliances.

Gum recession can result in tooth sensitivity, tooth decay, unaesthetic changes such as a longer-than-normal appearance of the teeth or a notch near the gum line. If left untreated, the gum recession continues and the tissues and bone that support the teeth is damaged further. Advanced gum recession can lead to tooth loss.

A gum graft can prevent further recession and bone loss. In some cases, it can cover exposed roots to protect them from decay. This may reduce tooth sensitivity and improve the aesthetics of your smile.

The short answer is no, a referral is not necessary for a periodontal consultation.
If you feel that you experience any of these signs and symptoms, it is important that you schedule an appointment with our periodontist without delay.

GRAFTING TECHNIQUES

4 ways to correct gingival recession

A small surface layer of tissue is removed from the palate and relocated to a tooth with gum recession or thin gum tissue. This grafting technique is specifically used to thicken the existing gum tissue.

Donor tissue is harvested from the interior layer of the palate and relocated to a tooth with gum recession. It is sutured in place and the existing gum tissue is pulled over the top. This grafting technique is specifically used to cover exposed roots.

AlloDerm SELECT™, PerioDerm™

In certain patients it is deemed inappropriate to remove donor tissue from the palate. An allograft acellular dermis can be used instead to treat gum recession. Ideally, we prefer to use this technique when the patient requires root coverage but also has an adequate thickness of gum tissue.

The Pinhole Surgical Technique™ is a breakthrough procedure that treats gum recession without the use of scalpels or stitches and no donor tissue from the palate is required. It can treat an isolated gum recession or an entire arch in a single appointment. Once the area to be treated is numbed, a small hole is made above it (the size of a pinhole), and special angled instruments are sequentially inserted through this access hole. These instruments free the gum tissue and aid in repositioning it to cover the exposed roots. Collagen strips are then inserted through these pinholes to stimulate healing and to help stabilize the gum tissue at its new position.

There are several ways treatment from a periodontist may be sought. You may reach us by phone or e-mail if you think you are experiencing symptoms of gum recession. A consultation with a periodontist can help determine the cause of your problem and the appropriate treatment.
A referral is not necessary for a consultation with our specialists.

Dr. Romina Perri

DMD, Cert Perio, MS(Paro), FRCD(C), Diplomate ABP

YOUR FIRST VISIT

What to expect?

Our periodontist will inform you about various treatment options, so you can have a full understanding your recommended treatment.

01

Review

During your first visit, our professionals will review your complete medical and dental histories with you. They will need to know about any medication you are taking or if you currently have any condition(s) that could affect your periodontal treatment, including pregnancy, diabetes, and heart disease.

02

Examination

Our professionals will then examine your gums to assess the probing depths around your teeth, gum line recession, jawbone alignment, and if you have any loose or missing teeth.

03

X-rays

We make every effort to collaborate with your dentist’s office to obtain recent and pertinent X-rays. Should we not be able to obtain recent radiographs, or if they are not helpful in diagnosing your problem, our specialist will take digital X-rays to assess your oral health under your gum line. These are essential to help determine the appropriate treatment for your condition.