Soft Tissue Grafts
Most people pay close attention to their teeth during the oral hygiene routine. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for the gums. This is particularly troublesome because gum tissue plays an important role in the function and esthetics of your smile. Dr. Rifkin specializes in a number of cosmetic and restorative treatments that improve your smile, as well as your oral health. Once of these treatments, soft tissue grafts, may be necessary to protect your teeth from the damaging effects of gum recession.
What Is Gum Recession?
Gum recession is characterized by the degradation of your soft tissues, which exposes more of the tooth and root. It is a fairly common problem that often goes unnoticed by the patient until their checkup or appointment with Dr. Rifkin. This is due to the fact that gum recession is a slow and “silent” process, with many of the symptoms being painless and hard to see. If gum recession remains untreated, it can lead to significant damage of the alveolar bone, and eventually, tooth loss.
Causes of Gum Recession
Gum recession is typically the result of periodontal (gum) disease. Periodontal disease is an infection that targets the gum tissues, supportive bone, and connective ligaments, all of which hold your teeth firmly in place. This infection is caused by the bacteria found in plaque and tartar buildup. In an attempt to fight off the bacteria, your immune system produces toxins that also target healthy tissues. In most cases, periodontal disease is the result of genetics, hormone changes, systemic illnesses, bruxism (teeth grinding), misaligned teeth, and inadequate oral hygiene. Smoking and tobacco use can also increase your risk.
Improper brushing and flossing techniques have also been linked to gum recession. For example, aggressive brushing and flossing can damage your soft tissues. If your gum recession is caused by plaque and tartar buildup, we may recommend a scaling and root planing. If your recession is too severe, Dr. will discuss the possibility of a soft tissue graft.
Tissue Grafting Procedures
There a three main types of soft tissue grafts. During your consultation, Dr. Rifkin will determine which graft is right for you. The procedures include:
- Connective-Tissue Grafts. During the procedure, Dr. Rifkin will make an incision in the palate, or rough of your mouth. Once we create a flap, we will remove some of the subepithelial connective tissue from underneath. This tissue is then sutured on to the area with exposed roots. After the tissue is in place, we will suture the flap back to the palate.
- Free Gingival Grafts. A free gingival graft is similar to a connective-tissue graft. However, we remove the graft tissue directly from the palate instead of using tissue from underneath the flap.
Pedicle Graft. During this procedure, we create a flap of graft tissue from the gum tissue surrounding the area that needs a graft. The flap, called a pedicle, is only cut away on one side. Next, we pull the tissue over the exposed root and sow it into place.
Testimonials
People rated our Services
“Dr Rifkin has the hands of an angel. Never had any pain with his procedures. He is the Michelangelo of restorative dentistry. I’ve been going to him for forty years and will be going to him after he retires.”
“Dr. Rifkin is simply the best. Not everybody is lucky enough to become his patient. He is a caring Dentist first. Period. But he is also an artist with an eye for detail ... just a rare find. His smiles are so natural, so translucent and luminous you would never know that they aren't made by nature.”
“Great experience Dr. Rifkin and his staff are both pleasant and professional. It’s over a two hour drive for me but worth the trip for superior dentistry!”
Recovery From a Tissue graft
The length and discomfort of your recovery period depends on the type of procedure we perform. Before you leave the office, Dr. Rifkin will give you a detailed set of post-operative instructions. In short, be sure not to floss or brush the graft area until it has properly healed. If we do not use the palate for tissue, you should little or no pain. If we do, there is no reason to worry. Dr. Rifkin has a light and skillful touch, a result of over three decades in practice. You should be able to manage any discomfort with over-the-counter medication.
Once the recovery period is complete, your gums will return to a pink, healthy state. This not only improves the health of your teeth, but also your overall smile! Your beautiful new gums will, in turn, make your teeth look more attractive than ever!
If you would like to learn more about soft tissue grafts, click here or call 310-596-7230 to schedule your consultation today!