Soft Tissue Grafting Smiles Plus

When you get your regular dental exam from our friendly dentist, he will check the health of your gums. he will check the health of your gums. If you have receding gums, and evidence of gingivitis (gum inflammation), or periodontitis (gum disease), then your gums will be checked for the level of damage. This is usually done by using an instrument to measure the depth of the pockets in the gums.

Receding gums are typically caused by bacteria that is generated from tartar and plaque build-up. Regular teeth cleanings can help clean that build-up and reduce the risk of gum disease. However, receding gums can be caused by a variety of factors, including overbrushing (brushing too hard), genetics, and a weakened immune system.

Even physical wear and tear can cause receding gums, and this can occur from things that might surprise you, from night-time teeth grinding to lip piercings. Smoking and tobacco use can cause gum recession. Also, dentures that aren’t fitted properly can also be a cause of receding gums.

Connective tissue grafts are the most common way to perform a gum graft. This process involves taking a small patch of skin from the roof of the mouth and grafting it onto the affected area of the gums.

A free gingival graft is similar to a connective-tissue graft except that is slightly more invasive because the outer and inner layer of affected gum tissue is removed first. This is done to strengthen very weak areas that need stronger gum tissue.