Do your gums seem to be receding? Are your teeth more sensitive or do they appear longer? These are symptoms and discomforts experienced by many patients, but a simple and effective treatment exists: gum grafting.
At Carrefour Dentaire 440 in Laval, our team offers this treatment to prevent or correct problems that affect both oral health and the aesthetic appearance of your smile. Here’s what you need to know about it.
What is a gum graft?
Gum grafting, also called gingival grafting, is a minor surgical procedure that involves removing a small piece of tissue (the graft), often from the patient’s palate. It is then applied to the area where the gum has receded.
The main goal is to restore or strengthen the gum tissue to better protect the tooth roots and stabilize the teeth.
The Main Goals of Gum Grafting
A gum graft may be recommended for a variety of reasons. Here are the most common reasons for such a procedure.
Protect Exposed Roots
When the gums recede, the roots of the teeth become partially exposed. This can cause:
- Increased sensitivity to hot and cold, or when brushing;
- An increased risk of root caries, since the roots are more vulnerable because they are not covered by enamel.
Prevent the Progression of Gum Recession
Weakened or thin gums can continue to recede over time, especially if the underlying cause (aggressive brushing, bruxism, malocclusion, etc.) is not controlled.
The graft aims to stabilize the situation by adding strong tissue, which prevents the recession from progressing and protects the tooth in the long term.
Improve the appearance of the smile
Some people are self-conscious about the appearance of their elongated teeth or uneven gums. Gum grafting can:
- Even out the gum contour;
- Improve the aesthetic appearance of the smile naturally;
- Offer a long-lasting solution without resorting to more complex procedures.
Promote tooth stability
Advanced recession can affect the natural support of the teeth, which, in the long term, risks compromising their stability. Furthermore, it is important to know that gum recession allows bacteria to penetrate deeper into the periodontal tissues, which are responsible for keeping the tooth roots firmly anchored within the bone. Over time, inflammation of these tissues can develop (periodontitis) and can even lead to their irreversible destruction.
By strengthening the gums, grafting helps maintain proper anchorage of teeth in the bone, especially when combined with proper periodontal health monitoring.
A gentle, in-clinic procedure
Gum grafting is a minor procedure performed under local anesthesia in a comfortable and safe environment. Carrefour Dentaire 440 uses modern and delicate techniques to minimize discomfort and promote rapid healing.
Much more than a simple cosmetic procedure, this procedure plays a preventative, protective, and stabilizing role in oral health. If you have noticed signs of recession or experience hypersensitivity, it is important to act early.
Do you have questions about gum grafting? Make an appointment at Carrefour Dentaire 440 in Laval for a personalized assessment. Our team is here to inform you, support you, and offer care tailored to your needs.