Gum recession is a common problem with periodontal disease. As bacteria grow around your teeth, it can infect the gum tissue if it is not removed. Pockets of infection form and cause your gums to swell, bleed, and even pull away from your teeth. This results in cosmetic concerns for “toothy” smiles with excessive crown exposure, as well as health concerns with uncovered tooth roots.

Without sufficient gum tissue support, teeth are likely to become loose and can fall out. Exposed roots can also leave your teeth and bone susceptible to additional damage from bacteria. In order to ensure you have plenty of gum tissue for support, and to keep your smile aesthetically pleasing, Dr. Toms may recommend a gum graft.

Gum grafts are somewhat more invasive than other periodontal procedures, such as the Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique. One reason is that a gum graft will often require a surgical procedure to remove gum tissue from the roof of your mouth. This piece of gum tissue is then used to cover the tooth roots where gums have receded or are excessively thin. Once the gum tissue has been stitched in place, healing can begin as the new gum tissue grows.

This can be a painful and uncomfortable procedure for some patients. For this reason, Dr. Toms will evaluate your specific case and see if you are eligible for other methods of gum treatment, such as the Chao Pinhole® procedure. Either way, the gum tissue is vitally important to not only your dental health but also your overall well-being. Gums are a strong defender against bacteria and other foreign materials.

Without sufficient healthy gum tissue, you are subject to many potential health risks. Increased heart disease, stroke, low birth weight, and other issues are all linked to periodontal disease. It is essential to your overall health, to keep your gums healthy.

If you are suffering from receding gums at any stage, call Dr. Toms at (513) 922-7300 to set up an appointment for an evaluation. Dr. Toms is a highly experienced periodontist who is available to help you get the treatment you need. He will be able to make an individualized recommendation for your specific needs.