Are there different types of tissue grafts for periodontics?
Different types of gum disease and deterioration require tissue grafts. Yes, there are different types of tissue grafts depending on the periodontist recommendation and the patient’s needs. Work with your dental care team to isolate the root cause of your tissue damage, and talk through grafting options to find a solution to the problem.
Why would you need periodontal tissue grafts?
Many patients will experience some gum recession in their lifetime. This is typically attributed to either gum infection, gum disease, or physical damage.
- Gum Infection- Infections occur when bacteria enter a blood-rich area and proliferate. In dental context, this typically occurs between the teeth along the gumline. Those with an inconsistent history of dental hygiene will experience dental infections. Bacteria will accumulate on remaining food particles, and as this material decays the bacteria will feed and multiply. Once this bacteria enters the gumline it gains access to gum tissues and the blood stream. Signs of infection include bleeding, discharge, redness, gum tissue loss and gum recession.
- Gum Disease- Whether developed as a result of gum infection, or inherited from genetics, gum disease include disorders where the structure of the gums becomes compromised over time. Some gum disease attacks gum tissue, like infection–and some attack supporting dental structures like the jaw itself.
- Physical Damage- Many patients suffer from bruxism, or tooth grinding. This is one example of consistent physical damage to the dental ecosystem, and even though your teeth are whats grinding, this will eventually affect the root structures and gums supporting those teeth. Physical damage can also come in the form of trauma, like a fall or hit to the face.
What are the different types of Periodontal Gum Grafts?
- Connective Tissue Grafts (CTG)- Connective tissue grafts are a great option for gum recession near the front of the mouth. The way the tissue is grafted ensures that after healing, the aesthetic nature of the mouth is maintained. Some gum grafts have issues matching the color of tissues, but connective tissue grafts are attached underneath the top layer of the gums, slowly pushing the gum tissue back down the tooth and toward the front.
- Free Gingival Grafts (FGG)- Free Gingival grafts can be attached wherever the gums are receding. Usually tissue from the roof of the mouth is freely attached to areas of severe gum recession. The tissue color is not as important as reinforcing the strength of the gums to save the tooth health.
- Pedicle Graft (PG)- A pedicle graft is a great option when the gum recession is in an otherwise isolated area. The gum tissue can simply be rotated from an area of abundance near by. Instead of taking gum tissue from the roof, it is segmented from an area nearby. Tissue needs to be abundant and healthy nearby for this option.
- Alloderm Graft (AG)- Alloderm grafts come from the latin meaning “other-skin” and they involve a donor. Many people can afford to give some healthy gum tissue, as the tissue will ideally grow back if healthy. Some patients will require donated tissue in order to supplement detrimental gum tissue damage and recession.