Gum Graft

Periodontics and Implant Dentistry in St. Louis, MO

Gum recession is a progressive periodontal condition that can lead to pain, sensitivity, or tooth loss if not treated by a periodontist.

At Justin M. Schlaikjer, DDS, MS Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, we can perform a gum graft to restore damaged tissue.

Let our St. Louis, MO, team treat your receding gums to improve your oral health and comfort.

What Is Gum Recession & Who Is At Risk?

Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue pulls away from the tooth. There are several factors that can cause gum tissue to recede or put you at risk of gum recession:

Chewing Tobacco
Aggressive Brushing
Periodontal Disease

Gum recession is gradual, but when it reaches the point where the tooth roots are exposed, gum graft surgery becomes necessary.

Signs of Gum Recession
Pain at the Gum Line
Tooth Root Exposure
Tooth Sensitivity
Uneven Gum Line
Loose Teeth
Bleeding After Brushing

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Call (314) 729-7840 or send a message!

The Top Benefits of Gum Grafting

Protect Your Smile

Gum recession is often a consequence of untreated periodontal disease. Both gum recession and advanced periodontal disease are considered chronic issues, and will cause more widespread dental problems if left untreated. With periodontal treatments such as gum graft surgery, Dr. Schlaikjer can control gum disease, stop gum recession, and prevent the loss of a tooth.

Smile with Confidence

Uneven or damaged gum tissue can affect the balance and symmetry of your smile, making each affected tooth appear longer than it actually is. When performing a gum graft, our periodontist will create a healthier, more even gumline that helps your smile look more balanced and more beautiful, boosting your confidence.

Save Money in the Long Run

Many patients put off soft tissue grafting because they think they don’t need the procedure. But leaving gum recession or gum disease untreated can lead to more extensive issues, including tooth loss and bone loss. These problems may require expensive restorative dentistry work, such as traditional dental implants or All-on-4® dental implants.

Restore Your Comfort

Gum recession can leave the roots of a tooth exposed and prone to sensitivity, which can make eating and drinking painful. A gum graft addresses root exposure, reducing sensitivity and relieving discomfort. Gum graft surgery allows you to comfortably enjoy all your favorite hot and cold drinks and foods again and makes practicing good oral hygiene more comfortable.

Don't Risk Your Oral Health; Call Our St. Louis Practice Today

Gum recession may seem minor, especially if it isn’t causing pain. However, when left untreated, gum issues can lead to further oral health complications, including tooth loss. Dr. Justin Schlaikjer is an experienced periodontist who can effectively resolve your gum issues, including gum disease. We tailor treatment to each individual in a comfortable environment.

If you are experiencing signs of gum recession, gum grafting, and other solutions can help prevent further issues and protect your oral health. Contact us online or call us in St. Louis, MO, to request an appointment today.

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The Three Types of Gum Grafting

The type of gum graft used during your procedure will vary depending on your needs. Your periodontist will recommend which type of gum graft is right for you.

Connective Tissue Graft

During a connective tissue graft, your periodontist will create a flap on the roof of the mouth, then transfer the layer of connective tissue beneath the flap to the treatment area. This is the most common type of gum graft surgery to treat cosmetic problems.

Free Gingival Graft

During a free gingival graft, a periodontist transfers tissue from the roof of the mouth to build up and strengthen the areas where gum recession has occurred. This kind of graft is typically used for people who want to thicken their gums.

Lateral Pedicle Graft

If you have enough healthy gum tissue near the treatment site, your periodontist will partially cut away some gum tissue so one edge remains attached. The healthy gum tissue is then stretched and folded over the treatment site to restore the gumline.

Gum Grafting Recovery

Some minor discomfort is to be expected as you heal, but there are things you can do to control it and make your recovery as smooth as possible:

Eat Soft Foods

It is recommended that you eat a soft diet for the first one to two weeks following your graft procedure. This will minimize irritation of the graft site.

Eat Cold Foods

Cold foods such as ice cream or yogurt may help to ease the discomfort while you heal. They are also soft, which is recommended during the healing period.

Be Careful When You Brush

Your periodontist will discuss how to maintain your oral health while you heal, but it is best to avoid brushing around the graft site. Your periodontist may recommend a mouthwash that can keep the area clean.

Take Medication as Prescribed

Your periodontist may recommend over-the-counter pain medications to ease discomfort and reduce inflammation while you heal. Take them as directed.

Why Visit a Periodontist?

By choosing a periodontist rather than a general dentist, you will receive specialized dental care from a doctor who focuses on periodontal health. Unlike dentists, periodontists focus on the treatment of the gums, which allows them to provide more personalized treatment and deliver outstanding results.

Our dental office in St. Louis, MO, is also equipped with the latest tools, including dental lasers, which are designed to make procedures like soft tissue grafts safe, efficient, and comfortable.

Whether you need a gingivectomy or need to resolve other periodontal issues prior to dental implant placement, our office can meet your needs.

Insurance and Financing For Gum Grafting

Our St. Louis practice accepts most dental insurance providers to help cover the cost of your gum grafting. Coverage varies based on plans and providers. To help those without insurance or to help finance costs not covered by your dental insurance, we accept CareCredit® and Lending Club®. This allows patients to break up the cost of treatment into affordable monthly payments.

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Periodontics and Implant Dentistry in St. Louis, MO

Gum Graft

Periodontics and Implant Dentistry in St. Louis, MO

What Is Gum Recession & Who Is At Risk?

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