Gum Grafting Photos

RECESSION = GUM AND BONE LOSS

If your teeth look similar to these photos, don't panic! This problem can be treated. Let's learn about the causes and treatment and ways to prevent more recession.

The most common procedure, the subepithelial connective tissue graft (commonly referred to as a CTG), will accomplish the following:

• Provide Root Coverage
• Create a wide zone of gum tissue
• Protect and preserve the underlying remaining bone
• Prevent further bone loss; reduce sensitivity, cover the roots after cavities have been removed.

Prior to beginning the procedures, the area is numbed using local anesthetic. The tooth is cleaned and the gum tissue is lifted. A small incision is made on the roof of your mouth. The inside lining of the gum tissue is carefully removed. This area is sutured closed. The graft is slipped under the lifted tissue. Two stitches are placed on the roof of the mouth and two are placed to attach the graft. Dressings are placed on both areas to protect them for two weeks. Once the dressings are removed, new young tissue attaches to the root of the surface. The color of the new tissue matures with time and matches the surrounding tissue.  A natural appearance is the final result.

Primary Causes:

• Aggressive, rough brushing of your teeth and gums
• Thin gum tissue, which is a genetic predisposition

 Other Contributing Factors:

• A prominent tooth (when a tooth sticks out in front of the arch of teeth or in front of other teeth)
• Orthodontic treatment
• Clenching or Grinding

 What ever the cause, the result is loss of the gum tissue as well as the underlying bone. This is your jawbone that holds each tooth in place.

Caden Lim, DMD, MPH
Periodontics & Oral Surgery of Manhattan Beach
500 South Sepulveda Boulevard
Suite 306 
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 
Phone: 310-545-7079
Fax: 310-798-7191