Gum Recession & Tissue Grafting
HEALTHY GUMS PROTECT AGAINST DISEASE
Gum recession may be caused by periodontal disease but it is typically caused by more than one reason. Some causes may include the aging process, prominent roots, genetics, and habits like clenching or aggressive brushing.
Gum recession is problematic because it can result in tooth sensitivity and loss of protective tissue around the root and its supporting bone. Many patients also dislike the aesthetics of gum recession. Tissue grafting replaces the disappearing gum tissue with either the patient’s own tissue or a donor graft. There are pros and cons to both choices. When you discuss your tissue loss with Dr. Ravenel you will be able to decide which is best for you.
Your Gum Recession & Tissue Grafting Treatment
Gum grafting is recommended for a variety of reasons. Many people have a degree of recession at some point in life. If you have sensitivity or do not care for the way the exposed root looks, you may benefit from a soft tissue graft. For small areas, it is common to use your own tissue. When there are multiple areas of recession to address, donor tissue may best.
Grafts become necessary when the gums have receded to the mucosa or the moveable soft tissue (like the side of your cheek). In this procedure, the periodontist may not be able to cover all the root exposure. The goal is to keep a healthy band of protective tissue against the tooth surface. More about your individual situation can be reviewed during your consultation.
Patients receive customized local anesthesia and may request conscious sedation during the procedure to guarantee their comfort. With your procedure, you should experience very little impact on your daily life. There is some degree of discomfort for approximately two to three days, but you will be given specific instructions on how to recover quickly and resume your normal diet. If you have a child or teen needing this procedure, you should consider what sports or musical instruments may be limited during the first couple of weeks to allow for maturation of the graft. Discuss any habits or hobbies which may apply with Dr. Ravenel.
What to Expect at Our Office
Expertise
Dr. Ravenel has over fifteen years of experience working as a periodontist in Greenville, SC. She’s a member of the American Dental Association, the South Carolina Dental Association, the American Academy of Periodontology, and the Southern Academy of Periodontology. Continuing education is a priority to Dr. Ravenel, ensuring new technologies and procedures are available to her patients.
Customized Treatment Options
Patients of Ravenel Periodontics have confidence that their treatment plan will be customized to their specific needs. Dr. Ravenel will educate you on the issues affecting your dental health, share the options available to you, and work with you to create a treatment plan.
Individual Attention
Dr. Ravenel believes that everyone deserves to be treated as an individual. She listens to her patients’ concerns, enjoys getting to know them, and prioritizes making them comfortable. For this reason, patients who have been seeing Dr. Ravenel for years continue to recommend her.