A gingival graft, also called gum graft surgery or periodontal plastic surgery, is a generic name for any of a number of periodontal surgical procedures in which the gum tissue is grafted. The aim may be to cover exposed root surfaces or merely to augment the band of keratinized tissue.
During this procedure, the affected bone will be replaced using fragments of bone, synthetic bone or donated bone. Grafts have the power to restore the teeth stability and it acts as the platform for bone re-growth.
It is done in order to prevent bone loss. During the procedure, the surgeon smoothens the shallow craters in the bone. This procedure makes the bone stronger and makes it difficult for bacteria to amass and grow.
This procedure is done in order to boost the receded gums or fills. Tissues will be taken from the roof of the mouth will be stitched to the affected area.
During this procedure, the tartar will be removed by lifting the gums back. Pocket reduction surgery is done to reduce the pockets below the gum line to prevent the growth of bacteria over there.
This procedure is done when the bone that supports the teeth is destroyed. The bone and gum tissue will be stimulated with this procedure. This procedure is usually done along with flap surgery.
Most of the periodontal surgeries are minor and can be done in the clinic with a local anaesthetic. They are not meant to cure the disease completely. These surgeries may not hurt much. The patient may face very little discomfort. One of the negative aspects of the surgery is that the patient may have teeth sensitivity.
Authored By Dr. Vinamra Dhariwal - Dentist, Chennai
