Soft Tissue Grafting Procedure and Benefits
What are some of the reasons for soft tissue grafting?
This versatile procedure may be performed for different purposes depending on the patient’s needs. Here are some of the primary benefits of soft tissue grafting treatment:
- Increased comfort – patients with root exposure may have substantial discomfort and pain when eating and drinking. Covering exposed roots decreases sensitivity significantly and restores health to the gum line.
- Improved aesthetics – gum recession from periodontal disease can result in a “toothier” smile that does not match the gum line. Grafting gum tissue over the teeth can restore the smile’s appearance to a more symmetrical and balanced look.
- Improved gum health – progressive conditions such as periodontal disease can destroy the soft tissues, leaving the tooth roots exposed and causing the shrinkage of the jawbone. Restoring the gum tissue and gum line can improve overall health and wellness to the smile.
What are the types of common soft tissue grafts performed at Perio Implant Chicago?
Below are just a few of the more commonly performed treatments for patients who come into our practice for soft tissue grafting:
- Free gingival graft
- Connective tissue graft
- Pedicle graft
- Allograft Gum Graft
- Pinhole Technique
What can I expect from soft tissue grafting procedures?
Before the procedure is performed, the patient will have a thorough dental cleaning. That is done along the gum line to address tartar (calculus) and any bacteria and plaque that may remain on the teeth. Local anesthetics are used to comfort the patient as incisions are made in the treatment area. Donor tissue is placed, and the area is sutured back in place. The periodontist may also use platelet-rich plasma to help stimulate natural tissue growth and promote proper healing to the site for faster recovery.
Soft Tissue Grafting: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is soft tissue grafting?
This is a collection of treatments designed to restore gum tissue and the gum line. Some of the more common grafting techniques performed at our specialty practice include free gingival, connective tissue, pedicle, and allograft gum grafts. We also offer the pinhole surgical technique (PST). We can explore and discuss the best techniques to improve your smile, health, and wellness.
Am I a good candidate for soft tissue grafting?
You may be! Procedures that use soft tissue grafts are incredibly versatile. They may be recommended to increase comfort by addressing painful sensitivity, enhance the appearance of a smile that looks overly “toothy” due to the loss of tissue at the gumline, and improve the health of the gums.
How do these treatments improve my comfort, smile, and health?
The loss of soft tissues and root exposure can result in significant tooth sensitivity and discomfort, especially when eating and drinking certain foods and beverages. Changes to the gums can also create imbalances in the smile. As more of the tooth is exposed, your gumline may look out of proportion with your teeth and other parts of your mouth. This can affect the overall aesthetics of the smile. As periodontal disease gradually destroys the soft tissues, it exposes the roots of the teeth and also causes the jawbone to shrink. By restoring the gum tissue and addressing root exposure, we also restore comfort, a beautifully balanced smile, and oral health.
Will it hurt?
No treatment at our office should ever hurt. After thoroughly cleaning your teeth and gumline, a local anesthetic is administered. The areas to be treated are fully numbed, so you won’t feel anything as small openings are made to access the underlying tissues. We then place the tissue or graft used to build up your gums in the area that needs it the most. The incisions are also closed with sutures. One of our specialists may also incorporate healing and natural platelet-rich plasma into your treatment. PRP is used to aid in stimulating the growth of tissues. PRP is known for its regenerative capabilities and promotes predictable healing and faster recovery.
What should I avoid after treatment?
We will review aftercare with you. Patients should generally avoid anything that could increase their risk of complications, such as persistent and worsening swelling and bleeding. These activities include:
- Rigorous exercise
- Heavy lifting
- Strenuous physical activity
You should also avoid cleaning directly on the gum graft. Brushing and flossing the graft can damage this tissue and lead to its failure. Stick to more forgiving foods as you heal, slowly working your way up from soft and cool foods (like smoothies and yogurt) to options like pasta and steamed veggies.
What are the most common side effects?
At first, it’s natural to experience some soreness, bleeding, swelling, and bruising. These effects can be managed with medications taken as prescribed by your doctor. We can advise on other ways to control these normal changes as your mouth heals. If these side effects persist or get worse, contact us right away. While rare, complications such as graft failures and infections can happen.
How long does it take to recover?
Just as no two treatments are the same, no two healing journeys are the same. In general, it can take around six weeks to heal fully. When multiple areas are treated at once, this can add to your recovery time. Once healed, treatment gets exceptional results—effectively resolving gum recession, improving overall oral health, and averting complications such as tooth loss.
How much does it cost?
The cost of soft tissue grafting typically ranges depending on the complexity of the procedure, the type of graft used, and whether sedation is required. The cost may be higher if multiple teeth are involved or advanced techniques like bone grafting are needed. After an in-office consultation, our team will walk you through your treatment cost.
Will insurance cover it?
Dental insurance may cover soft tissue grafting, depending on your plan. Coverage is more likely if the procedure is considered medically necessary, such as treating severe gum recession or preventing tooth loss. Don’t have insurance? Don’t worry! Dental financing is available with CareCredit, helping you break treatment into budget-friendly instalments.
Who is the best near me?
Your gums are the foundation of your oral health. Perio Implant Chicago provides the best soft tissue grafting services in Chicago, Illinois, to ensure you maintain a healthy smile. Whether you need gum grafting for one tooth or several, you can count on our periodontal team for personalized care tailored to your needs. Countless patients have trusted us with their smiles—why go elsewhere?
Call the practice of Drs. Peter Cabrera and Bahareh Sabzehei of Chicago, Illinois
Chicago area patients interested in learning more about soft tissue grafting or are being referred to Perio Implant Chicago from their dentist will want to call to book an appointment at the practice to discuss their periodontal needs. The office is located at 939 W North Avenue, Suite #700, and can be reached by phone to request an appointment at (312) 736-7959 .
