Soft tissue grafting

Gum tissue supports teeth to keep teeth in alignment but also protects teeth from infection by acting as a barrier against bacteria, plaque and tartar. Many people experience problems with gum tissue receding as they age but receding gums can also be caused by periodontal gum disease, brushing teeth too hard, infection or a genetic problem.

Receding gums can cause dental problems as the gum does not provide complete protection from decay and infection, but receding gums also damage the appearance of the mouth making teeth look overly long. If the gums recede excessively exposing the tooth root, many people experience sensitivity in the tooth and are unhappy with the appearance of their smile.

Soft tissue grafts are used by dentists to rebuild the gum tissue around exposed teeth to prevent gums from receding further and to enhance the aesthetics of teeth.

How is a soft tissue graft performed?

Dentists will perform the soft tissue graft with a tissue sample taken from one of three areas:

Tissue can be taken from the roof of the mouth to replace missing gum tissue. The graft is then stitched around the exposed tooth root and attached to existing gum tissue. This is known as a Free Gingival Graft.

If there is enough gum tissue covering adjacent teeth, dentists can stretch this tissue to replace missing tissue in a Pedicle Graft procedure.

Using a flap incision, dentists are able to remove tissue from the underneath connective tissue layer of the roof of the mouth. The incision is sealed and the connective tissue graft is placed underneath existing gum tissue and stitched in place.

Related guides

• Gum recontouring
• Soft tissue grafting

Other guides

• Dental Hygiene
• Childrens' Dentistry
• Common Dental Problems
• Teeth whitening
• Reconstructive dentistry
• Orthodontics
• Dental Implants
• Dental Crowns
• Cosmetic Dentistry
• Dental Veneers
• Dental Treatment in Mexico

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