Types Of Gum Grafts For Dental Implants – Key Considerations

 

For long-term success, many dentists now recognise that the gums are just as crucial as the tooth implant. One of the main reasons people select titanium dental implants is because they are highly attractive and provide life-like appearance.  They are virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth when the root portion of the implant is completely covered. Unfortunately, some people's gums may recede, revealing the roots of their dental implants. A gum graft is a term that refers to a group of surgical periodontal operations aimed at covering an exposed tooth root surface with grafted oral tissue. They are sometimes called gingival graft or periodontal plastic surgery. The various types of gum grafts can be utilised to replace tissue that has been lost around dental implants. Other gum rejuvenation techniques you may have heard of don't work with titanium dental implants, but gum grafting has a long history of being utilised in conjunction with dental implant operations to assure appealing results.

 

Why gum grafts are needed?

 

Healthy gums that are firmly linked to the teeth are ideal candidates for titanium dental implants. Gum disease affects a large number of people, and many of them have some degree of gum recession. Gum recession can be caused by numerous factors. These include overbrushing, tooth position, teeth grinding or clenching, heredity, in those who don't have gum disease. Gum recession, regardless of the source, raises the chance of dental implant failure.

Although dental implants are a popular option, it's worth noting that suitable candidates for dental implants typically have healthy gums. After all, implant failure is more likely if the gums are unhealthy. This can be a concern for patients considering dental implants to replace teeth that have been lost due to periodontitis.

Fortunately, this isn't a long-term issue. The various types of gum grafts may be recommended by your implant dentist in conjunction with your dental implant operation. It also doesn't have to prevent you from getting dental implants. Having less-than-healthy gums, on the other hand, may necessitate additional operations to provide the greatest possible treatment outcome. A gum graft is one procedure that may be required before implant surgery. If your gums are badly receded, you may need a gum transplant.

 

When various types of gum grafts should be placed?

 

One of the main advantages of dental implants is that they look and feel like natural teeth. It also makes them a very attractive solution to replace one or more missing teeth. When the gums recede and expose the interface, the aesthetic look of dental implants might be compromised.

Gum grafting preserves a suitable amount of gum tissue below the gum line, allowing this junction to be properly covered. This not only keeps the junction looking nice, but it also prevents bacteria from accumulating within it.

For gum recession, your dentist will likely propose one of the various types of gum grafts before dental implant treatment. If multiple teeth need an extraction, your implant dentist will most likely also perform the gum graft at the same time. Gum grafting is done right after a tooth extraction to keep the gum tissue from retreating.  This also assists in retaining the existing bone mass. Both of these factors are necessary for dental implant success, and this method yields greater results.

Gum grafts are used to maintain the looks of your smile after dental implant placement. In addition, it also ensures that your dental implants recover properly.

What are the various types of gum grafts?

 

The various types of gum grafts used in dental implantology are:

·         Connective tissue grafts:  The most common type of gum graft is connective tissue grafting. Sometimes gum recession has exposed the tooth roots and there isn't enough surrounding gum tissue. In such cases to execute a successful transplant, this sort of gum graft is commonly employed.

A tiny pouch is made in the existing gum tissue with a connective tissue graft. The roof of the mouth is then incised with a little flap and a thin layer of connective tissue is removed. The pouch is then filled with this thin layer of connective tissue. Following this, the flap on the roof of the mouth is stitched down. As the new tissue obtains nutrients from the pouch, the graft will mend and the new tissue will develop over the exposed tooth root.

·         Double papilla subepithelial graft: The name comes from the incision of the healthy papilla on either side of the afflicted tooth. This is followed by a small raising of the papilla. To harvest a layer of connective tissue, a flap incision is made on the roof of the mouth. This connective tissue will be put right behind the elevated papilla beside the tooth. To cover the tooth root and exposed bone, a single stitch is being used. It connects the papilla on either side of the tooth.

·         Free soft tissue graft/ Free gingival grafts: Connective tissue grafts are quite similar to free soft tissue autogenous grafts. A tiny pouch is produced in the existing gum tissue, similar to a connective tissue graft. The key distinction is that the tissue graft is obtained directly from the roof of the mouth rather than from beneath the flap. Following that, the tissue is grafted into the pouch at the base of the tooth root. Patients with thin gums who would benefit from the extra tissue are frequently given free soft tissue autogenous transplants.

·         Pedicle graft: Pedicle grafts are made by removing the gum tissue above or below the tooth and pulling it over the exposed tooth root. After that, the tissue will be sutured to keep it in place. Although the tissue will be stretched initially, once the graft cures, it will gradually return to its original density. This type of gum graft is used when there is enough healthy gum tissue around the teeth.

·         Acellular dermal matrix allograft/ Alloderm grafts: In some situations, your clinician may choose to use donor tissue rather than tissue from your mouth's roof. This transplant has the same indications as to the connective tissue graft. However, it's better for those patients who don't have enough tissue on their roof.

 

What are the benefits of various types of gum grafts?

 

The benefits of various types of gum grafts are:

·         Enhances aesthetics: Gum recession and inflammation are symptoms of periodontal disease. Gum recession and root exposure can make teeth appear longer than they should be, and the grin appear "toothy." Gum grafting can make teeth appear shorter, more symmetrical, and more appealing to the eye. Additionally, surrounding tissue might be improved and supplemented for aesthetic objectives during the dental implant surgery.

·         Reduces sensitivity: Eating or drinking hot or cold foods can cause significant sensitivity to the teeth when the tooth root becomes exposed. Gum grafting provide cover to the denuded root surface, reduces discomfort, and optimises the gums' health.

·         Improve gum health: Periodontal disease can spread quickly and destroy gum tissue. If neglected, a significant amount of gum tissue can be lost in a short amount of time. Gum grafting can help to avoid further problems and protect exposed roots from deterioration by halting tissue and bone loss.

 

Overall, dental bone grafts and various types of gum grafts aid in the preservation of bone mass and the prevention of future gum recession. This reduces the chances of implant failure and avoids the difficulties that come with exposed dental implants. If your gums have receded and you're thinking about getting dental implants, ask your implant specialist if a gum graft is a good option for you.

Kamal Medtech is one of the pioneers manufacturers of Indian titanium dental implants. The research division of Kamal Medtech, have developed numerous types of best in class and cost-effective titanium dental implants keeping the need and choices of Indian people. If you have any queries related to dental implants then please write us or contact us.