Gum recession is one of the most common oral issues people face as they age, although it can happen for a variety of reasons and at any age. Regardless of the reason, if you are experiencing gum recession, you will want to correct the issue as soon as possible. Doing so will not only improve your smile, it will also improve your oral health.
Fortunately, there are several different options available for patients experiencing gum recession. One of the most common and traditional approaches to addressing this is a gum graft san rafael california. The gum graft procedure involves taking tissue from the palate (or using donor tissue) and placing it over the area that has been affected. Although this procedure is highly effective, it is also more invasive than other procedures and the recovery process is also more extensive.
If you need to treat gum recession but would prefer to avoid having a gum graft, you may want to consider the following alternatives.
Pinhole Surgical Technique
One of the more popular alternatives to having a traditional gum graft performed is a newer procedure called the Pinhole Surgical Technique. Much like orthoscopic/laparoscopic surgery, this minimally invasive procedure corrects gum recession by making a small hole in your gumline. Next, your periodontist uses special instruments to loosen your gums and move them back to the appropriate position. This procedure has gained popularity due to it being far less invasive than traditional gum grafting, which in turn makes the recovery time significantly faster.
Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and Root Planing is a procedure that removes accumulated tartar on your teeth or below the gumline (scaling), or removes tartar below the root line (planing). If bacteria is left to settle, it eventually mineralizes, which increases your risk of developing periodontal disease. This can cause gums to begin receding. By removing this bacteria, your gums have a chance to heal.
Regeneration
Gums that have receded severely may cause bone to deteriorate underneath. Regeneration corrects this issue by peeling gum tissue back in order to place a bone graft. This procedure is not typically performed unless patients have severe periodontal disease.
Gum Contouring
Gum contouring is another option that may be done instead of or in addition to gum grafting. Gum grafting consists of reshaping your smile lines, which is done through the use of a laser and/or scalpel. Patients are typically given anesthesia prior to performing this procedure. Once the procedure is complete, the patient can enjoy a bright, new, aesthetically improved smile. This procedure also decreases the depths of the pockets, which make them easier to clean, thereby decreasing your risk of developing periodontal disease. This procedure is commonly performed in conjunction with a gum graft.
So, Which Treatment Option is Right for Me?
Every patient has unique dental needs, so the best way you can decide which treatment options is right for you, beyond studying the pros and cons of each option, is to schedule an appointment with your periodontist to see which approach they believe will provide you with optimal results.
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