Are there different types of tissue grafts for periodontics?
Gum recession can be caused by a number of factors including poor oral hygiene which leads to periodontal disease, genetics, medical conditions, and even certain medications. A gum graft is an outpatient procedure that is used to restore an area of gum tissue that has receded and is causing pain and sensitivity due to root exposure. Grafting is used to thicken the gum tissue and to cover recession. Without treatment, gum recession will likely worsen and can lead to bone loss and eventually tooth loss.
There are a few different types of gingival grafting that are available to restore a patient’s gum line. They are: free gingival graft, alloderm graft, pedicle graft, and connective tissue graft. In this section, we will review each graft in more detail.
Connective Tissue Graft
The connective tissue graft, often abbreviated CTG, is the most common type of grafting. A small incision is made in the roof of the patient's mouth to create a flap, allowing the periodontist access to the underlying connective. The connective tissue is moved to the area being restored and is stitched into place under the existing gum tissue. This type of graft is used to cover recession and thicken gingival tissue.
Free Gingival Graft
A free gingival graft, FGG, also uses a piece of tissue from the roof of the patient's mouth. This graft is designed to reinforce weak or receding gum tissue to prevent decay and tooth loss. The harvested tissue will protect the roots of your teeth from infection and exposure to air, which can make things very sensitive and painful. When your graft heels, you're going to shoot it will be fuller and stronger. This option is an effort to prevent tissue and bone loss.
Alloderm Graft
An alloderm graft uses donor tissue harvested from a cadaver instead of tissue from the roof of the patient's mouth. This type of graft works like a connective tissue graft but as a nice little bonus, the patient does not have to endure and then session on the roof of their mouth as well!
Pedicle Graft
The pedicle graft is another type that does not involve tissue being removed from the roof of the patient's mouth. Instead, healthy, thick neighboring gum tissue is cut and pulled over the tooth next to it to cover the recession. The catch with the pedicle graft is that you need a lot of extra gum tissue near the area that is being affected by recession. It is not terribly common to have a single tooth affected by recession so it can be difficult to find enough healthy tissue nearby.
With all of these options, there is no need for you to live with pain and sensitivity from gum recession! Your dentist can help refer you to a qualified periodontist who will then perform a full evaluation of the area to be treated and discuss your options with you. One type of graft may be more appropriate than another so it is important to understand your options. Tissue grafts are a one to two hour, outpatient procedure and healing time can take up to two months but if you follow your doctor's postoperative instructions, your healing time will likely be less.