Soft Tissue Grafting
- Diagnosis
The procedure is carried out due to the presence of significant gum recession or insufficient gum tissue in the mouth.
It is important to have a sufficient amount of firm gum tissue around teeth or implants to minimise further gum recession that could otherwise compromise tooth retention or implant longevity.
- Explanation of Gingival Grafting
The main purpose of gingival (gum) or connective tissue grafting is to create an adequate zone of robust gum tissue to help prevent gum recession.
In other cases it can be performed to create a positive shape or architecture of the gums where teeth are missing. Graft surgery may also be performed to cover exposed roots or augment lost gum tissue around natural teeth or implants.
- Treatment
Connective tissue or gingival grafting is performed in areas of the mouth where there is gum recession, inappropriate gum biotype or a defect in the shape of the soft tissue.
This is a surgical procedure involving either:
- The removal of a thin strip of gum tissue from typically the roof of the mouth alongside the upper teeth; or
- Placement of an external graft material to cover the area of gum recession, exposed root(s), implant site or undercontoured ridge.