Soft Tissue Graft

Your gums and periodontal tissues are highly resilient, but they aren’t invincible. If you develop a severe case of gum disease, a soft tissue graft can preserve your gums and prevent further damage. At Lone Star Dental Care in Frisco, Texas, Afshin Vahadi, DDS, Vafa Mirshams, DDS, and their experienced team provide soft tissue grafts onsite as an outpatient procedure. To schedule an appointment, book a consultation online, or call the office today.

Soft Tissue Graft Q & A

What is a soft tissue graft?

A soft tissue graft, or gum graft, is a safe, effective treatment for receding gums. Gum recession exposes the roots of your teeth. Over time, this increases your risk of tooth decay, increased sensitivity, and tooth loss. A soft tissue graft prevents damage caused by gum disease from getting worse. It takes a healthy piece of tissue from another part of your mouth and stitches that tissue on top of your gums that wore away.

What are the types of soft tissue grafts?

At Lone Star Dental Care, the team offers several types of soft tissue grafts, including:

Free gingival graft

If you have a mild or moderate case of periodontal disease, you might benefit from a free gingival graft. During this type of soft tissue graft, your dentist removes a small piece of tissue from the roof of your mouth and sutures it to an area that needs gum tissue.

Connective tissue graft

A connective tissue graft is very similar to a free gingival graft. The only difference is that instead of taking tissue directly from the roof of your mouth, your dentist cuts a flap of tissue and removes a layer of connective tissue from beneath it. Afterward, they stitch the tissue to an area of your gums that requires more tissue.

Pedicle graft

If you have remaining healthy gums, your provider might recommend a pedicle graft. To perform a pedicle graft, your dentist cuts a flap of healthy gum tissue near an area of receding gums. They stretch the healthy tissue over the receded areas and stitch it in place. Of all the soft tissue grafts, pedicle grafts are most successful because they don’t cut off blood flow to other areas of your mouth.

What type of soft tissue graft is right for me?

To determine the type of soft tissue graft that’s right for you, your Lone Star Dental Care provider conducts an oral exam, reviews your oral health history, and takes oral X-rays. After gathering this information, they ask about your symptoms and goals for treatment and develop a custom treatment plan.

What is recovery like following a soft tissue graft?

Following a soft tissue graft, it’s normal to experience tooth sensitivity, swelling, and mild discomfort. During the first week of recovery, stick to soft foods like Jell-O, scrambled eggs, and mashed potatoes. Take your medication as prescribed and use an antimicrobial mouthwash to prevent infections. You should avoid brushing and flossing until your Lone Star Dental Care provider says it’s safe to do so. If you’re interested in learning more about a soft tissue graft, schedule an appointment at Lone Star Dental Care. Book a consultation online, or call the office today.

Soft Tissue Graft