Do your teeth seem to be getting bigger? Do you always seem to be grinning like a horse in pictures you’re not prepared to snap? These problems might not have anything to do with your teeth at all. It could be an issue with your gums, and if left untreated, you could be looking at tooth loss sooner than later. Dalton Dental can provide you with some answers.
Receding gums is the most common reason for a gum graft.
Receding gums is usually caused by advanced periodontal disease, more commonly known as gum disease. Another cause is grinding or clenching our teeth, as it places stress on the teeth and attached tissue. The recession of the gums can make the teeth look larger, but it doesn’t just look bad, it can also expose the roots of your teeth, causing decay and potential loss of the tooth.
What is a gum graft?
A gum graft is the only effective treatment for receding gums. Like a skin graft, a traditional gum graft takes tissue from your mouth and attaches it to the gum where it is weak or more recessed. In this case, the tissue is going to come from other parts of your gum or the roof of your mouth. BUT WAIT! The gum lift technique offered at Dalton Dental is most often less invasive and does not require two surgery sites, and usually no stitches. It’s truly a lift for your gums instead of moving tissue from another location in the mouth, Dr. Dalton is able to move the tissue and guide it to heal to a pleasing appearance. The gums firm up and help keep the teeth in alignment.
Why would I need to get a gum lift?
There are many other reasons you might need a gum lift, including:
- Poor oral hygiene
- Hormonal changes, such as menopause or andropause
- Diabetes
- Tobacco use
- Teeth grinding
- Genetics/family history
Often you won’t have any indication that there is a problem until the area becomes sensitive from root exposure that must be treated with a gum lift or graft. The best way to prevent that from happening and keep other treatment options open is to get a regular checkup every six months. Call us today to schedule your checkup!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Dr. Hilary Dalton, DMD, MS
Dr. Hilary Dalton owns Dalton Dental, a general and cosmetic dental practice in Tampa, FL. She is board-certified in Periodontology & Dental Implant Surgery and in Procedural Medicine in Aesthetics.
She also holds certifications in microsurgery, laser proficiency, Invisalign, master esthetic facial injector, PRP, and facial laser.
She graduated from Tufts University’s School of Dental Medicine in Boston with an award for Outstanding Leadership and Extraordinary Clinical Achievement.
To learn more about Dr. Hilary Dalton, visit our About page.