Tissue Regeneration
West Linn, OR
When thinking about the perfect smile, many people tend to focus on the condition of the teeth, how straight and white they are, and that they are free from any blemishes. While the teeth are important in the quality of your smile, so is the condition of your gums. If your gums have receded, your teeth may appear longer than normal, which can age you several years. Gum recession can also significantly impact your oral health as well. ZenTech Dentistry can help to treat gum recession with tissue regeneration.
Causes of Gum Recession
Gum recession has many causes. Common causes include:
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Periodontal disease.
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Aggressive brushing habits.
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Poorly aligned teeth.
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Bruxism.
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Tobacco use.
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Genetics.
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Aging. |
Soft Tissue Grafting
One way to restore a healthy, natural gumline is with soft tissue, or gum, graft. This is a surgical procedure that involves harvesting a portion of soft tissue from another area of your mouth, or from a donor, and transplanting it over the affected teeth. The procedure is done under a local anesthetic as well as sedation. We then harvest the tissue and suture it in place over your teeth. As you heal, the tissues fuse to form a healthier, more aesthetic gumline.
There are a few different types of gum grafts that may be performed. These include:
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Connective tissue. This graft uses soft tissue taken from under a small flap created in the roof of your mouth.
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Free gingival. This graft uses tissue taken directly from the roof of your mouth. As a result, a larger wound is left. This wound is also more open.
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Pedicle. A pedicle graft uses surrounding gum tissue. Strategic incisions allow us to rearrange your gums to provide effective coverage over your affected teeth. |
Encouraging Tissue Regeneration
Leucocyte-platelet rich fibrin, or L-PRF, is a procedure that can further aid in tissue regeneration. With this procedure, we only need to collect a small sample of your blood, which is spun to separate its components. As the sample spins, a fibrin network begins to form, which traps platelets, or small cells responsible for wound healing as well as cell and tissue regeneration. We then remove the fibrin clots and press out the excess water, which leaves thin membranes. These membranes, rich in platelets, may be used following a soft tissue graft. These membranes can also simply be placed over the areas of your teeth affected by gum recession to encourage the growth of new tissue.
Preventing Gum Recession
While we can help to regenerate new tissue following gum recession, it is possible for gum recession to occur again. Fortunately, there are things that you can do to prevent this. Brush and floss your teeth every day and have your teeth professionally cleaned and examined at least twice a year. When you brush, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush gently. Have periodontal disease treated as soon as you notice it. If your teeth are misaligned, consider orthodontic treatment. Quit smoking or other tobacco products. Taking care of your mouth is essential for maintaining your oral health and preventing serious issues, including gum recession.
Tissue regeneration helps to restore a natural gum line, providing you with a healthier, more aesthetic smile. Call ZenTech Dentistry at (503) 765-9699 for more information and to schedule your consultation today. |
Appointment
(503) 765-9699
