If your teeth have been more sensitive to hot or cold temperatures lately or if they seem longer than before, your gums may be receding, leaving a portion of your tooth roots exposed. Your trusted team at Guided Smiles Prosthodontics & Implant Dentistry may recommend a tissue graft to prevent any further gum loss. We're all about maintaining healthy, confident smiles.

Tissue Grafts in Ponte Vedra, FL | Guided Smiles Prosthodontics and Implant Center

What is Gum Recession?

Healthy gums fit tightly around the teeth, protecting them and enhancing the appearance of your smile. Gum recession is the loss of the soft tissue around the neck of the tooth, which exposes the root surfaces. Receding gums often result in longer-looking teeth, posing a cosmetic concern. Moreover, exposed tooth roots are more sensitive to temperature extremes and are susceptible to decay. Gum recession is a gradual process, which often goes unnoticed until it becomes quite significant.

What Causes Gum Recession?

The primary cause of gum recession is periodontal (gum) disease, a bacterial infection that develops due to plaque and tartar accumulation. Other factors leading to the gums receding include poor oral hygiene, genetic makeup, overly aggressive tooth brushing, smoking, or using tobacco products. Gingival recession can also result from misaligned teeth, constant teeth grinding and clenching (bruxism), and dental trauma.

What Is Tissue Grafting?

Tissue grafting, also known as soft tissue grafting, is a procedure designed to repair your gums and restore their healthy, natural appearance. It involves using healthy tissue to rebuild the gum, restoring your gum line, and protecting your tooth placement and structure.

Which Type of Tissue Graft Is Best for You?

Dr. Blackmon will evaluate your unique needs and recommend the type of tissue graft that would work best to restore your healthy smile.

Here are the most common types of tissue grafts:

Connective Tissue Graft: This is the most commonly used gum grafting procedure. It involves extracting a thin layer of tissue called subepithelial connective tissue from under the surface of the roof of the mouth (palate) and placing it over the receding areas of the gums.

Free Gingival Graft: This procedure involves removing small soft tissue sections directly from the roof of the mouth to help rebuild the receding gums. We usually recommend free gingival grafts for patients with thin gums needing additional tissue to enlarge them.

Pedicle Graft: A pedicle graft involves using tissue from the area around or near the receding gum. It only works if there is plentiful gum tissue in the area.

Allograft: This involves using tissue grafts donated from tissue banks to build back the receding gums.

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Tissue Grafting Near Me

Contact Guided Smiles Prosthodontics & Implant Center in Ponte Vedra, FL, to learn more about restoring your healthy gums and beautiful smile. Dr. Blackmon, is committed to delivering the highest level of care and service. Call us and schedule your appointment today!

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