If your gums have been injured or receded from your teeth due to gum disease, gum grafting procedures can help restore your smile. This protects your vulnerable teeth roots from decay, reduces painful sensitivity in the area, and restores the look of your gums. There are a couple of different ways a dentist can perform this procedure. To prepare you for your upcoming appointment, here are some of the methods your provider might offer. 

Ways Your Dentist Can Repair Your Gums

1. Subepithelial Connective Tissue Graft

During this treatment, a small flap is opened in your palate, or the roof of your mouth. A dentist will remove a layer of tissue from beneath the surface, called subepithelial tissue. This will be used to cover exposed roots. Afterward, the flap at the donor site is closed again. Both your palate and the gums heal in a matter of weeks.

2. Free Gingival Graft

This procedure is often used on receding gums or ones that have become too thin. Much like a subepithelial graft, this uses tissue that’s sourced from your palate. However, rather than creating a flap, the skin is removed directly from the roof of the mouth. The dentist will attach this to your gums to thicken them, securing your teeth.

3. Acellular Dermal Matrix Allograft

To avoid the need to take tissue from elsewhere in your mouth, your dentist uses donated tissue for this procedure. The samples used have been medically processed, making them safe and sterile. Since this doesn’t require extracting your skin, it often causes less discomfort. Once healed, the area will look and feel like any other graft.

If you have receding gums or other dental concerns, visit dentist Curtis Wade, DDS, PS in Burlington, WA. Serving Skagit County, Dr. Wade offers advanced treatments, including dental implants and grafts to improve your oral health and give you a beautiful, healthy smile. His services include everything from preventive care to surgical intervention. Learn more about grafting online or call (360) 757-0201 to schedule an appointment.