Gum Grafting

Connective Tissue Graft

Connective tissue graft is a surgical procedure to transfer a piece of gum tissue from under palatal tissue to the root surface of the teeth with recession. This procedure is performed to cover the roots and make a protective, strong layer called gingiva that is more resistant to future recession and bone loss. Connective tissue grafts are used for aesthetic reasons and to reduce sensitivity of the teeth as well. Heavy brushing habits, bacterial plaque, position of the tooth, and trauma are main causes of gum recession.

Free Gingivial Graft

Free soft tissue graft is a surgical procedure to transfer a piece of gum tissue from the surface of palatal tissue to the root surface of the teeth with recession. This procedure is performed to remove the frenum pull and to make a protective strong layer called gingiva that is more resistant to future recession and bone loss. These grafts are usually not used in the esthetic areas since they will look like a pink patch around teeth. Root coverage is hard to achieve with free soft tissue graft. Heavy brushing habit, bacterial plaque, position of the tooth and trauma are main causes of gum recession.

Free Soft Tissue Allograft

Free soft tissue allograft is a surgical procedure to transfer a piece of soft tissue donor material to the root surfaces of the teeth with recession. Acellular Dermal matrix is an allograft derived from donated human skin which is used where we have multiple teeth with recessions and for patients who do not want to go through a second surgical site from the palate. There are different tissue banks that process these grafts through strict FDA approved procedures. This surgical procedure is performed for esthetic reasons and to reduce sensitivity of the teeth. Heavy brushing habit, bacterial plaque, position of the tooth and trauma are main causes of gum recession.