Gum recession can affect both the health and appearance of your smile.
When the gumline pulls away from the teeth, it exposes the roots, increases sensitivity, and raises the risk of further recession or tooth damage.
Soft tissue grafting is a proven solution that restores gum coverage, strengthens the tissue, and improves overall oral health. At Promenade Center For Dentistry, we offer personalized grafting procedures to help patients throughout Charlotte, NC, recession.
Treating Gum Recession With Grafting
Soft tissue grafting involves adding healthy gum tissue to areas where the gumline has receded. This procedure helps rebuild lost tissue, protect vulnerable tooth roots, and improve the appearance of the smile. Grafting not only addresses the current recession but also helps prevent additional tissue loss caused by brushing habits, periodontal disease, or naturally thin gum tissue.
Benefits Of Treating Recession With Grafting
- Protects sensitive roots: Covers areas exposed by recession.
- Improves gum health: Restores stability and structure.
- Reduces risk of further recession: Strengthens vulnerable tissue.
- Enhances appearance: Creates a smoother, more even gumline.
- Supports long-term function: Helps maintain tooth stability.
Types Of Grafts Used In Dentistry
Several types of soft tissue grafts are available, depending on the patient’s needs and the severity of the recession. The most common grafts involve tissue taken from the palate, donor tissue, or repositioned gum tissue from nearby areas. Each method is chosen based on the unique characteristics of the patient’s gumline and treatment goals.
Common Grafting Methods
- Connective tissue grafts: Use tissue from beneath the palate surface.
- Free gingival grafts: Use tissue directly from the palate.
- Pedicle grafts: Use nearby gum tissue moved to cover the recession.
- Donor grafts: Provide an alternative when patient tissue is limited.
- Customized techniques: Tailored to the area and degree of recession.
Protecting Exposed Tooth Roots
Exposed roots can become extremely sensitive, more prone to decay, and more susceptible to long-term wear. Soft tissue grafting helps shield the roots from irritation and bacterial buildup. By restoring proper coverage, the tooth becomes better protected against sensitivity and structural damage.
How Grafting Protects The Roots
- Reduces sensitivity: Covers exposed areas that react to temperature.
- Prevents decay: Shields roots from bacterial contact.
- Strengthens the area: Supports healthier gum attachment.
- Improves comfort: Eases irritation caused by brushing or eating.
- Protects enamel: Helps reduce erosion at the gumline.
Enhancing Gum Thickness & Strength
Thin or fragile gum tissue is more likely to recede over time. Soft tissue grafting increases gum thickness, making it more resilient to future wear or irritation. This added strength helps improve long-term oral stability and reduces the chances of further recession.
Advantages Of Strengthening Gum Tissue
- Improved durability: Makes the gumline less prone to damage.
- Better protection: Shields teeth from external irritation.
- Enhanced attachment: Creates stronger support around the teeth.
- Long-term stability: Minimizes future tissue loss.
- Healthier appearance: Creates fuller, more natural-looking gums.
Recovery & Aftercare Guidelines
Following soft tissue grafting, patients should follow specific care instructions to ensure proper healing. Mild swelling or tenderness is normal, and the grafted area should be kept clean and undisturbed. Proper aftercare supports successful healing and helps the new tissue integrate effectively. Follow-up visits allow us to monitor progress and confirm that the graft is healing as expected.
Post-Treatment Care Tips
- Follow medication guidance: Supports comfort during healing.
- Avoid brushing the area: Prevents irritation or disturbance.
- Use recommended rinses: Keeps the area clean and promotes healing.
- Eat soft foods: Protects the graft while tissues regenerate.
- Attend all follow-up visits: Ensures proper recovery and stability.
Why Choose Promenade Center For Dentistry
Soft tissue grafting offers a reliable way to protect your smile from the effects of gum recession. At Promenade Center For Dentistry, we proudly provide patients across Charlotte, NC, with personalized grafting techniques designed to restore gum health, reduce sensitivity, and improve aesthetics. Our team uses advanced clinical methods to ensure comfort, precision, and long-lasting results. When you are ready to strengthen your gumline and preserve your oral health, call us to schedule your consultation and learn how soft tissue grafting can benefit your smile.