The Subepithelial Connective Tissue Graft
Tissue grafts are amazing options to help patients regain control over their dental health. Throughout the lifetime, patients are likely to experience gum recession. When the gums reduce to a point that the root is exposed or the teeth become compromised, it can be a really serious problem. This is why it can be necessary to reestablish support using a periodontal tissue graft,.
Why would you need Subepithelial Connective Tissue Graft?
Patient who receive gum grafts have advanced gum recession. The receding gums expose the roots and root sensitivity, leading to sharp pain and discomfort. Eventually gum recession will lead to tooth loss, maybe not directly but it will expose the supporting structures. Many Patients also feel self conscious, as the receding gums expose gaps between the teeth. There are plenty of options to choose from in gum grafts.
Different Types of Periodontal Gum Grafts
- Free Gingival Graft- Free gingival grafts are a common form of gum graft. They require less genetic tissue to manipulate coverage of overexposed areas.This is a similar form as the Subepithelial Connective graft, as it typically grafts underneath the epithelial layer. However FGG procedures are typically seen as a “touch up” option, because not as much tissue is maneuvered or attached. It is very helpful for minute adjustments and repairs.
- Pedical Graft- In a pedical graft nearby healthy gum tissue is reoriented to cover and support an area of heavy gum recession. This is a great option for patients who are not experiencing heavy or detrimental gum recession throughout the mouth. However, it does require healthier and stable gum tissue in the adjacent areas, so your dentist will need to ensure no presence of gum disease or infection that can spread.
- Connective Tissue or Subepithelial Grafts- Subepithelial grafts are gum grafts where connective layer gum tissue is surgically inserted into areas of heavy gum decay or recession. The top-layer epithelial tissue retains the color and consistency of your original gum layer, for appearance sake. The connective tissue bonds with other tissue layers and blood carrying structures to revitalize the area. After a period of growth called reanastomosis, the newly constructed subepithelial layer naturally adjusts and pushes the top-layer back over the tooth area. Your dentist may also lightly mar the surface of exposed teeth, in order to create surface area for the newly positioned gums to reattach.
Benefits of Subepithelial Connective Tissue Grafts
- Appearance- The top layer retains the look and structure of the original gum. Allowing you comfort and security when eating, speaking, or smiling.
- Security- Patients feel insecure about their teeth and their position within the mouth. Helping to reinforce the placement and structure of your tooth will provide more comfort and stability.
- Pain- The procedure is remarkable in that patient’s do not express severe pain afterwards. There is still an incision, sutures, and a recovery phase–but patients and doctors report that most often over the counter pain medications are enough to offset discomfort. CTG procedures are also vital in that they often remove painful or uncomfortable areas from the equation, by providing tissues and protection to those areas.