Are you experiencing tooth sensitivity when consuming hot or cold foods? Have you noticed your teeth appearing longer than before? Do your gums bleed easily during brushing? These symptoms may indicate gum recession, a common dental condition that can lead to more serious problems if left untreated. At Dental West NYC on Manhattan’s Upper West Side, our experienced periodontists offer advanced soft tissue grafting procedures to restore your gums and protect your dental health.
What Is Soft Tissue Grafting?
Soft tissue grafting, also known as gum grafting, is a specialized periodontal procedure that addresses gum recession by adding new gum tissue to areas where it has been lost. This procedure not only improves the appearance of your smile but also protects the exposed tooth roots from damage and decay.
Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue pulls away from the teeth, exposing more of the tooth structure or even the tooth root. This recession can be caused by various factors, including:
- Aggressive tooth brushing
- Periodontal disease
- Genetic factors
- Hormonal changes
- Tobacco use
- Teeth grinding (bruxism)
- Misaligned teeth
Without treatment, gum recession can lead to increased tooth sensitivity, root decay, and eventually tooth loss. Soft tissue grafting addresses these issues by restoring the protective gum tissue around your teeth.
Types of Soft Tissue Grafting at Dental West NYC
At Dental West NYC, Dr. Michelle Kamel, our periodontal specialist, offers several types of soft tissue grafting procedures, each tailored to your specific needs:
Connective Tissue Grafts
This is the most common type of gum graft used to treat root exposure. During this procedure, tissue is harvested from beneath a flap created in the roof of your mouth (palate) and then carefully sutured over the exposed roots. This technique provides excellent coverage for exposed roots and is ideal for treating more severe cases of recession.
Free Gingival Grafts
Similar to connective tissue grafts, this procedure uses tissue from the roof of your mouth. However, instead of creating a flap, a small amount of tissue is directly removed from the palate’s surface. This technique is particularly effective for patients with naturally thin gums who need additional tissue to prevent future recession.
Pedicle Grafts
For patients with sufficient gum tissue near the affected area, a pedicle graft may be recommended. This technique involves creating a flap of gum tissue adjacent to the recession and repositioning it to cover the exposed root. Because the blood supply remains intact, this type of graft often has excellent healing results.
Allograft Material
For patients who prefer not to have tissue taken from their palate, we also offer allograft options using medically processed, sterilized donor tissue. This approach eliminates the need for a second surgical site and can reduce post-operative discomfort.
At Dental West NYC, we enhance our soft tissue grafting procedures with our state-of-the-art PerioLase MVP-7 Nd:YAG laser – the only FDA-approved device to regrow bone – providing superior results with less discomfort and faster healing.
The Soft Tissue Grafting Procedure at Dental West NYC
At Dental West NYC, your comfort and care are our priorities throughout your soft tissue grafting procedure. Here’s what you can expect:
Before the Procedure
We’ll conduct a thorough examination of your oral health, including an assessment of your gum recession. Dr. Kamel will discuss your treatment options and develop a personalized plan for your soft tissue grafting procedure. We take digital x-rays only when necessary – typically every 2-2.5 years rather than annually.
During the Procedure
Your soft tissue grafting procedure at our Upper West Side office typically takes 60-90 minutes, depending on how many areas require treatment:
- We’ll administer a local anesthetic to ensure your complete comfort throughout the procedure. Sedation options are also available for patients with dental anxiety.
- Depending on the type of graft being performed, Dr. Kamel will either harvest tissue from your palate or prepare the donor material.
- The recipient site will be prepared, and the grafting material will be precisely positioned and secured with fine sutures.
- In many cases, we’ll use our advanced PerioLase MVP-7 Nd:YAG laser to enhance healing and stimulate tissue regeneration.
After the Procedure
Following your soft tissue grafting procedure, we’ll provide detailed aftercare instructions to ensure optimal healing:
- Temporary diet modifications to soft, cool foods
- Gentle oral hygiene practices around the treated area
- Antimicrobial mouth rinses to prevent infection
- Over-the-counter pain relievers if needed (most patients experience only mild discomfort)
Most patients can return to their normal activities within a day or two, though complete healing may take several weeks. We’ll schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your healing progress and ensure the success of your graft.
Benefits of Soft Tissue Grafting at Dental West NYC
When performed by our experienced dental team, soft tissue grafting offers numerous benefits:
Protection of Tooth Roots
By covering exposed roots, soft tissue grafting protects these vulnerable areas from decay and damage, helping you maintain your natural teeth.
Reduced Sensitivity
Gum grafting covers exposed roots that can cause sensitivity to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and beverages, allowing you to enjoy your favorite foods comfortably again.
Improved Aesthetics
Gum recession can make teeth appear unnaturally long and create an uneven gumline. Soft tissue grafting restores a more balanced, aesthetically pleasing smile.
Prevention of Future Recession
By reinforcing areas of thin or receding gums, soft tissue grafting helps prevent further recession and protects your oral health.
Enhanced Oral Health
Addressing gum recession reduces your risk of developing more serious dental problems, including bone loss and tooth loss.
Advanced Technology for Superior Results
At Dental West NYC, we utilize state-of-the-art technology for our soft tissue grafting procedures, including our advanced PerioLase MVP-7 Nd:YAG laser. This FDA-approved device enhances the healing process and provides superior results with less discomfort.
Why Choose Dental West NYC for Your Soft Tissue Grafting
Our practice philosophy centers on minimally invasive, preventive dentistry using the most advanced technology. Our team includes Dr. Leora Walter, a surgically trained prosthodontist, and Dr. Michelle Kamel, who graduated with honors in Periodontics from New York University College of Dentistry and received extensive post-doctorate training in Periodontics & Implant Dentistry.
We take pride in our patient-centered approach, taking time to thoroughly explain your condition and treatment options. Our goal is to help you maintain your natural teeth for a lifetime through comprehensive prevention and targeted treatment when needed.
Book Your Consultation Today
If you’re experiencing gum recession or increased tooth sensitivity, Dental West NYC offers the expertise and technology to achieve outstanding results with soft tissue grafting. Contact us today at (212) 580-4520 or book your appointment online to schedule a consultation. We offer free fluoride treatments during cleanings and use our advanced technology to provide you with the best possible care.
Dr. Leora Walter is a surgically trained prosthodontist and an elite dentists, with an expertise in cosmetic procedures at Dental West NYC on Manhattan’s Upper West Side.
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