Uneven or receding gums can be caused by several reasons, such as poor oral health, brushing too hard, diabetes smoking, hormonal changes (in women), periodontal disease, or even aging. No matter what the cause is, receding gums expose the roots of teeth and put you at the risk of several oral health issues, including gum disease and even tooth decay. Once receded, gums cannot grow back naturally. However, a viable treatment is available to bring the gums back to their original position. This treatment is called gum grafting.
What is Gum Grafting, and What Does it Entail?
Gum grafting, formally known as a gingival graft, is a surgical procedure to restore receded, worn-down gums. It involves taking gum tissues from the patient’s palate and grafting them onto the affected area. It may sound like a complicated process, but gum graft surgery is pretty straightforward, with only minimal risks of complications.
Top 4 Reasons to Consider Gum Graft Surgery
Gum grafting is often considered a cosmetic procedure people undergo to regain the beauty of their smile that was ruined by receding gums and visible teeth roots. While the procedure does help restore that big, wide, confident smile, gum grafting can also help protect or improve oral health in various ways:
1. It Is Great for Root Sensitivity
As mentioned above, the receding gums expose the roots of teeth, making them prone to sensitivity. You may only feel slight sensations upon the consumption of cold, hot, and sugary foods in the beginning. But, if not treated, these sensations can lead to unbearable pain.
Gum grafting helps treat this sensitivity by restoring the gums’ original position, so your teeth roots are no longer exposed.
2. It Eliminates the Risk of Bone Loss
Leaving your receding gums untreated may put you at the risk of losing the bone that supports teeth. When your gums pull back, leaving the roots of your teeth exposed to bacteria, there is a higher chance that bacteria will penetrate your jawbone through the roots. Any change in the bone structure or damage to the jawbone can lead to the loosening of teeth and eventually cause tooth loss.
3.It Helps Reduce the Chances of Tooth Decay
The more your teeth, especially the roots, are exposed to bacteria and viruses, the more susceptible they become to decay. Gum grafting can help prevent tooth decay caused by receding gums.
4. It Prevents Further Gum Recession
When the areas with receded gums are treated and the gum graft is placed, they will remain intact (provided you take care of oral hygiene) and prevent your gums from receding again.
Restore Your Oral Health and Smile With a Gum Graft Surgery!
Since receding gums cannot grow back naturally, you should consider gum grafting if your gums have been receding or if you are experiencing any of the problems discussed above.
If you are looking for a good periodontist in Tacoma, get in touch with MK Periodontics and Implants and discuss your case with one of the most experienced periodontists in Washington.