Gum Grafting
Eugene, OR
 When most people think about a healthy mouth, the first thing that usually comes to mind is the condition of the teeth. While the teeth are important, they are not the only factor; your gums also play an important part. In addition to functional purposes, the gums also aid in providing you with a beautiful, confident smile. If you have experienced gum recession, Harmony Dental can help with a gum graft.
What Happens When Your Gums Recede
Your gum tissue plays numerous important roles in your mouth. Healthy gums sit snugly against your teeth, creating a tight seal around them that protects their roots and your jawbone from bacteria and other debris. Gums protect the roots of the teeth, preventing sensitivity. The tissue helps to provide stability for your teeth. Your gums are also an essential component in the quality of your smile. Gum recession can happen for many reasons, including gum disease, aggressive brushing, and bruxism. When your gums recede, your teeth are at an increased risk of developing cavities. The roots of your teeth may become exposed, which can lead to sensitivity. Your teeth may become loose and shift out of alignment. Additionally, the quality of your smile suffers, which can impact your confidence.
Gum Grafting
A gum graft is a surgical procedure that is performed to restore a natural, healthy gum line following gum recession. The procedure involves taking tissue from elsewhere in your mouth, typically the roof, or tissue from a donor to achieve this goal. In some cases, we may choose to use regenerative materials. During your consultation, we will go over your options and choose the one that will provide you with the best results.
Gum grafting is done under a local anesthetic, and sedation may also be used. We begin by making incisions in your gums. If we are using your tissue, incisions are made at the donor site as well. We take the donor tissue and suture it into place over the exposed areas of your teeth. Once we are finished, the donor site is sutured closed and you can go home to heal.
Types of Gum Grafts
There are a few different types of gum grafts:
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Connective-tissue. A connective-tissue graft uses tissue from the roof of your mouth that is taken from under a small flap created in the palate. This particular type of graft is used when root coverage is needed.
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Free gingival. A free gingival graft uses tissue from the roof of your mouth as well. However, the tissue is taken directly from your palate, rather than from under it, leaving an open wound. This graft is used when harder tissue is needed.
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Pedicle. A pedicle graft uses your surrounding gum tissue. We make strategic incisions in your gums, and the tissue is rearranged over the recessed areas. A pedicle graft preserves your blood vessels, which can aid in faster healing. |
Gum Grafting Benefits
There are numerous benefits associated with a gum graft:
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Improved oral health. With the snug seal restored around your teeth, the roots of your teeth are protected from bacteria.
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Sensitivity is reversed.
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Your smile is restored, as is your confidence. |
With a gum graft, we can help to restore a healthy gum line, giving you back your oral health and your beautiful smile. Call Harmony Dental at (541) 246-3250 to schedule your consultation today.
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