Gum Grafting
Gum Grafting
Receding gums mean that your body is losing its natural protective shield against bacterial penetration and trauma. Generally, once the recession has reached the mucosa, the first line of defense against bacterial penetration is lost. At the beginning stages, gum recession does not only result in an unsightly appearance of your gums and teeth, but you might also experience root sensitivity to hot and cold foods and beverages. As it progresses, your teeth’s root surfaces can get exposed, leading to root caries and root gouging. If you’re suffering from receding gums, gum grafting might be a vital option for you to reconstruct this crucial defense system.
For mild cases of gum recession, the remaining, healthy gingiva (gums) can still protect the tooth, and no surgical treatment is necessary; however, patients will have to adhere to proper dental hygiene at home to keep the remaining gingiva healthy.
Author:
This page has been reviewed for medical accuracy by Dr. Ryan Lehr, a partner at MPDG and a graduate of Creighton University School of Dentistry. Click here to follow him on Linkedin.
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