Soft Tissue Grafting

What is Soft Tissue Grafting?

Soft tissue grafting is a method used to correct gum recession, which has left the root of the tooth exposed. It can recreate your gum line and prevent further recession.

Indications for Soft Tissue Grafting

Soft tissue grafting is usually performed in case of gum recession caused due to aggressive brushing, gum diseases, previous dental treatments, tooth loss or gums that are naturally thin.

Types of Soft Tissue Grafts

The 3 different types of soft tissue grafts are:

• Free gingival graft: A strip of tissue removed from the roof of the mouth is stitched to the damaged site to promote natural tissue growth.
• Connective tissue graft: In cases of root exposure due to gum recession, a small flap of subepithelial connective tissue removed from the mouth is grafted and sutured at the site of recession.
• Pedicle graft: In this procedure, the gums of the adjacent tooth are shared with the affected gum. A flap of tissue is partially cut and moved sideways to cover the root.

Soft Tissue Grafting Procedure

During the process of soft tissue grafting, the area above and below the gumline is cleaned and you will be given local anaesthesia at the site of surgery. A small incision is made at the recipient site in order to create a small pocket to hold the donor tissue. Medications may be applied topically to promote healing at the site of the graft. Finally, the site of the graft is stitched closed and surgical material is placed to protect the sensitive area. Complete healing of the wound takes about six weeks after the procedure.

Soft tissue grafting helps to increase comfort and decrease sensitivity of the tooth and gum area, improve gum health and make your smile look more symmetrical.