Tissue Grafting in Mitchell, SD
Why Is Gum Grafting Necessary?
Gingival grafting is indicated when certain tissue is lost over time and needs to be replaced.
Losing this tissue is called "recession," and most of the time, this recession is caused by the “scrubbing“ technique patients often use when brushing their teeth. When one scrubs their teeth with a forceful back and forth motion, it becomes traumatic to the gum tissue in the mouth. Over time, this trauma causes the gum tissue to recede and the roots of the teeth become exposed.
Below is a Dental Health Partners patient who has very good oral hygiene but is also a scrubber when brushing:
Here is a patient who has advanced recession with the roots of the teeth becoming exposed.
In the picture below, the:
GREEN LINE is where the gum tissue should be
RED LINE is where gum tissue has receded
BLUE LINE shows the transition between the two tissue types.
Tissue type A can be thought of as resistant-to-wear tissue (similar to an asphalt road). As the food is pushed off the teeth during chewing, this tissue is very strong and deflects the food.
Tissue type B can be thought of tissue that is stretchy but not very resistant to wear (similar to a dirt road). Your lips are made from this type of tissue, which is why they are so stretchy.
The problem starts when recession becomes advanced and all of the tissue type A becomes absent. Because tissue type A is wear resistant and tissue type B is not, when a patient has lost all of type A tissue, the recession really accelerates. With this acceleration, the root of the tooth becomes exposed and the tooth becomes sensitive.
When the tissue recedes, so does the underlying bone that holds the tooth in the jaw.
Given enough time, the recession will get so bad the patient can lose their tooth.
Fortunately, we can treat recession with a soft tissue graft! The soft tissue graft is a relatively short procedure where we take tissue from the roof of your mouth and transplant it to regions of recession in your mouth.
After the soft tissue graft, tissue type A thickness is increased at the area where the recession was located. The root of the tooth is also almost completely covered by the graft.
Restore Your Gums in Mitchell, SD
If you are a scrubber when you brush your teeth, if you are noticing recession around your teeth, and if you notice sensitivity around your teeth, we can confidently restore your gum tissue back to normal.
We want to preserve your healthy gums for the rest of your life. If you would like to discuss gum grafting options, we will be happy to arrange a consultation with one of our doctors.
Frequently Asked Questions
There are many causes of tooth sensitivity, but the most frequent reason is root exposure caused by gum recession. When gums pull away, or recede from the tooth surface, the tooth's root is exposed in the mouth. This part of the tooth is more porous and softer than the enamel of the tooth. Desensitizers can be placed on these areas to alleviate sensitivity, and daily use of a sensitivity toothpaste at home are most beneficial. Additionally, tissue grafting procedures in Mitchell, SD can eliminate sensitivity.
Dental tissue grafting is a procedure that involves taking soft tissue from another part of your mouth or using donor tissue to replace missing or receding gum tissue. This procedure is often recommended by a dentist in Mitchell, SD, when a patient has experienced significant gum recession due to periodontal disease, aging, or aggressive brushing habits. Gum recession can lead to tooth sensitivity, increased risk of decay, and even tooth loss if left untreated.
Tissue grafting in Mitchell, SD, can help restore the health and appearance of your gums, protecting your teeth and improving your overall oral health. If you are experiencing symptoms of gum recession, such as sensitive teeth or visible tooth roots, it's essential to consult with a Mitchell, SD dentist to determine if dental tissue grafting is right for you. Book an appointment today!
Meet Our Doctors:
Dr. Melissa Maier, DDS
Dr. Melissa is a native of Bismarck, North Dakota, where she graduated as valedictorian of her class. She received her bachelor’s degree in biology with a minor in chemistry from the University of North Dakota, ...
Dr. Cody Gronsten, MS, DDS
Dr. Cody is from rural northeastern Colorado where he grew up on his family’s farm and feedlot.
He completed his undergraduate studies in biology from Creighton University and obtained a Masters of ...
Featured Blog Posts - Tissue Grafting
What Types of Gum Grafts Are Available for Receding Gums?
We typically use tissue from the roof of the mouth (or similar) when grafting for gum recession.
Gum recession may result from the following:
- Brushing your teeth too vigorously
- Using the wrong toothbrush
- Indulging in do-it-yourself treatments
- Gingivitis or gum disease
Gum recession treatment in Mitchell, SD, is vital to stabilizing teeth and preventing sensitivity and other oral health complications.
Gum Recession and Your Oral Health
Gum recession is a serious condition that may be symptomatic of an underlying cause, such as gum disease. When gums recede, bone eventually follows. This means loose teeth and the potential ...
Understanding Different Types of Dental Tissue Grafts
Dental tissue grafts in Mitchell, SD are crucial in addressing gum recession and improving oral health. At Dental Health Partners, we offer three primary types of dental tissue grafts: connective tissue grafts, free gingival grafts, and pedicle grafts. Each type has its unique approach and benefits, tailored to meet the specific needs of our patients.
Connective Tissue Grafts
Connective tissue grafts are the most commonly performed type. This procedure involves taking a small piece of tissue from the roof of your mouth and placing it under the existing gum tissue. This ...