Gum recession exposes tooth roots, leading to sensitivity, decay, and aesthetic concerns. At The Dental Difference in Brick, NJ, Dr. Mosmen performs soft tissue grafting to restore gum coverage, protect exposed roots, and improve both the health and appearance of your smile.
This procedure rebuilds lost gum tissue and prevents further recession that could threaten tooth stability.
Treating Gum Recession
Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue pulls away from the teeth, exposing the tooth roots. Common causes include aggressive brushing, gum disease, genetics, teeth grinding, tobacco use, and misaligned teeth or bite.
Recession is not reversible on its own. Once gum tissue has receded, soft tissue grafting is the only way to restore coverage and protect the exposed roots.
Protecting Exposed Roots
Exposed tooth roots are vulnerable to decay because they’re not protected by enamel, sensitive to hot, cold, sweet, and acidic foods, susceptible to root surface cavities, and aesthetically unpleasing, making teeth appear longer.
Soft tissue grafting covers the exposed roots, reducing sensitivity, lowering decay risk, improving appearance, and protecting the tooth from further damage.
Grafting Materials & Techniques
Dr. Mosmen uses several grafting techniques depending on your needs.
- Connective tissue graft is the most common technique. Tissue is taken from the roof of your mouth and placed over the exposed root. This method provides excellent coverage and long-term results.
- Free gingival graft uses tissue from the palate to increase the thickness of thin gum tissue. This technique is ideal when you need to strengthen the gums rather than cover roots.
- Pedicle graft uses tissue from adjacent gum areas and repositions it to cover the recession. This works well when there’s adequate gum tissue near the affected area.
- Donor tissue from a tissue bank can be used in some cases, eliminating the need to harvest tissue from your palate.
Dr. Mosmen selects the technique that provides the best outcome for your specific situation.
Improving Gum Thickness
Thin gum tissue is more prone to recession and damage. Soft tissue grafting not only covers exposed roots but also increases the thickness and strength of the gum tissue, creating a more resilient barrier that better protects the teeth and resists future recession.
Thicker, healthier gums are less susceptible to trauma from brushing, grinding, or gum disease.
Healing & Recovery Expectations
Recovery from soft tissue grafting typically takes one to two weeks for initial healing, with complete maturation of the grafted tissue occurring over several months.
Post-operative care includes:
- Managing discomfort with prescribed medications
- Eating soft, cool foods while healing
- Avoiding the surgical area when brushing initially
- Rinsing gently with prescribed mouth rinse
- Attending follow-up appointments to monitor healing
Most patients experience minimal discomfort and are pleasantly surprised by how manageable recovery is. The grafted tissue integrates with your existing gums and takes on a natural appearance over time.
Preventing Further Recession
After grafting, protecting your results requires addressing the factors that caused recession in the first place.
To prevent future recession:
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a gentle brushing technique
- Treat gum disease promptly and maintain regular cleanings
- Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth
- Avoid tobacco use
- Address bite alignment issues that place excessive force on teeth
Dr. Mosmen provides detailed guidance on protecting your grafted tissue and preventing new recession.
Long-Term Gum Health Benefits
Soft tissue grafting provides lasting benefits, including reduced tooth sensitivity, protection from root decay, improved appearance and smile aesthetics, prevention of further recession, enhanced gum strength and resilience, and better long-term tooth stability.
The grafted tissue becomes a permanent, natural part of your gums and provides lifelong protection when properly maintained.
Restore Your
Gum Health
At The Dental Difference, soft tissue grafting is performed with precision and care to restore gum coverage and protect your long-term oral health. Dr. Mosmen's surgical expertise ensures excellent outcomes and natural-looking results. Call our Brick, NJ office or book online if you're experiencing gum recession or tooth sensitivity. Dr. Mosmen will evaluate your gums and create a treatment plan that restores coverage and protects your smile.