Gum Grafting

Gum Grafting in San Antonio

Gum recession occurs when the tissues surrounding your teeth start to pull away, exposing more and more of your tooth. It’s a gradual process that leads to tooth sensitivity and sometimes tooth loss if the root is exposed and left untreated.
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What Causes Gum Recession?

Aggressive brushing, teeth grinding, and tongue or lip piercings can irritate the gums, causing the tissues to wear away. However, gum disease (periodontal) is most often the culprit of gum recession. The disease can be initially caused by a number of things:

Poor oral hygiene

Diabetes

Genetic makeup

Hormonal changes

Smoking

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), frequent use of tobacco products exponentially increases your risk of developing gum disease: smokers are four times more likely to acquire gum disease compared to non-smokers.
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How Can Gum Recession Be Treated?

If heavy tarter buildup or gum disease is to blame for your receding gums, a professional cleaning can help to stop further recession. If your recession is more extensive, gum graft surgery might be your best option. Not only does the surgery repair your wounded area but it can help prevent further infection as well. The Masters Dental Group can help assess your situation and choose the best pathway for you.

What Is a Gum Graft?

Gum grafts not only protect your teeth from the damaging effects of gum recession, but also improve your smile. There are a few types of gum graft surgeries your periodontist might perform.

The most common grafting procedure, which is a connective-tissue graft, treat one or more areas of gum recession. Your dentist takes tissue from a flap on the roof of your mouth, which he or she stitches over the area of your exposed root. Similar to connective-tissue grafts, free gingival grafts take tissue directly from the palate. Pedicle grafts involve the tissue adjacent to your tooth in need of repair.

What Are the Benefits of Gum Graft Surgery?

Not only can gum graft surgery give you a confidence boost when speaking or smiling in public, it also helps to:

Lessen tooth sensitivity

Protect against root decay

Halt gum recession and bone loss

However, preventing gum recession is always easier than a procedure. So, be mindful of your oral health routine and don’t forget about your routine dental check ups. Call The Masters Dental Group or book an appointment online at the first sign of periodontal trouble.
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Gum Grafting in San Antonio, North Central TX