Soft Tissue Grafting A tooth is surrounded by two types of tissue. The first is gingiva (gum), which is pink, thick and dense. It is also called keratinized tissue. Gingiva forms a tight seal around the tooth which serves as a barrier against the penetration of bacteria to the underlying bone. The gingiva also helps to withstand trauma from brushing, eating, etc. The other type of tissue, mucosa, found directly below the gingiva, is red, thin and loose or elastic. It does not seal tightly around the tooth, nor does it withstand trauma well (as shown by how easily you can "scratch" the floor of the mouth).
Gum recession can be caused by genetically thin bone and gum, over scrubbing the gum tissues, using toothbrush bristles that are too stiff, or by clenching and grinding habits. When gum recession occurs, the body loses a natural defense against both bacterial penetration and trauma. When there is only minor recession, some healthy gingiva often remains and protects the tooth, so that no treatment other than gentle oral hygiene is necessary. When recession reaches the mucosa, the first line of defense against bacterial penetration is lost. No matter how meticulously the patient tries to control the bacteria, there is a greater chance of it penetrating and affecting the underlying supporting bone. In addition, gum recession may result in root sensitivity as well as an unsightly appearance to the gum and tooth. Some people genetically have extremely thin gingiva and require grafting to prevent recession before it starts. This is quite common when orthodontic tooth movement is planned. A gingival graft is designed to solve these problems. A thin piece of tissue can be used to provide a stable band of dense gingiva around the tooth. The tissue can be taken from the roof of the mouth, borrowed from an adjacent area or donor tissue can be used. Gum recession can be caused by genetically thin bone and gum, over scrubbing the gum tissues, using toothbrush bristles that are too stiff, or by clenching and grinding habits. When gum recession occurs, the body loses a natural defense against both bacterial penetration and trauma. When there is only minor recession, some healthy gingiva often remains and protects the tooth, so that no treatment other than gentle oral hygiene is necessary. When recession reaches the mucosa, the first line of defense against bacterial penetration is lost. No matter how meticulously the patient tries to control the bacteria, there is a greater chance of it penetrating and affecting the underlying supporting bone. In addition, gum recession may result in root sensitivity as well as an unsightly appearance to the gum and tooth. Some people genetically have extremely thin gingiva and require grafting to prevent recession before it starts. This is quite common when orthodontic tooth movement is planned. A gingival graft is designed to solve these problems. A thin piece of tissue can be used to provide a stable band of dense gingiva around the tooth. The tissue can be taken from the roof of the mouth, borrowed from an adjacent area or donor tissue can be used. |
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