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Soft Tissue Graft
 Soft Tissue Graft (Subepithelial Connective Tissue Grafts) When recession of the gingiva (your gums) occurs, the body loses a natural defense against both bacterial penetration and trauma. Gum reconstruction using grafting techniques is one way to correct the problem. If there is only minor recession, enough healthy gingiva remains to protect the tooth. No treatment, other than greater attention to home dental hygiene, is needed. However, when recession reaches the mucosa, the first line of defense against bacterial penetration is lost. Gum recession can also lead to sensitivity to hot and cold foods and an unsightly appearance to the gum and tooth. And recession, when significant, can expose the root surface, which is softer than enamel, leading to root caries (cavities) and root gouging. A gingival graft is designed to solve these problems. A thin piece of tissue is taken from the roof of your mouth, or gently moved over from adjacent areas, to provide a stable band of attached gingiva around the tooth. The gingival graft will be placed in such a way as to cover the exposed portion of the root. Grafts like these reliably result in a stable, healthy band of new tissue around the tooth. |