Gum Grafting

gum graftIf your dentist has detected that your gums have receded substantially, you may be referred to a periodontist for a gum graft. Gum recession occurs when the tissue surrounding each tooth pulls away, exposing more of the tooth or the tooth root. This exposure can cause significant damage to the supporting bone, in addition to causing tooth sensitivity. Gum recession happens over time, so you may not notice when it’s happening. If left untreated, gum recession will result in tooth loss. Gum grafting repairs this damage before it gets even worse.

Types of Gum Grafts

Depending on your mouth’s unique needs, your periodontist will choose one of the following types of gum grafts:

  • Connective Tissue: The most common type of graft to treat root exposure is a connective tissue graft. In the roof of your mouth, a flap of skin is cut and pulled back. Tissue underneath this flap, known as subepithelial connective tissue, is then removed and stitched to surround the exposed tooth root. Once this is finished, the flap in the roof of your mouth is also stitched down.
  • Free Gingival: A free gingival graft is similar to the connective-tissue graft because it also uses tissue from the roof of the mouth. However, instead of creating a flap, tissue is directly removed from the roof of the mouth. This tissue is then attached to the area of the gums that is being treated. This graft is most often used for people who have thin gums.
  • Pedicle: For a pedicle graft, tissue is taken from the gums near the tooth needing repair. The flap, known as a pedicle, is partially cut away so that one edge stays attached. The gum is stretched over to cover the exposed root and is then sewn in place. This graft can only be performed on people who have enough gum tissue near the affected tooth.
  • Tissue Bank: There are some patients and periodontists who prefer to use graft material from a tissue bank instead of the patient’s own mouth. Tissue-stimulating proteins are added to encourage the body’s natural ability to grow bone and tissue.

Our Location

12 Main Street Atkinson NH 03811 *Entrance on Robie Lane

Hours of Operation

Our Regular Schedule

Monday:

7:00 am-5:00 pm

Tuesday:

7:00 am-5:00 pm

Wednesday:

7:00 am-5:00 pm

Thursday:

7:00 am-5:00 pm

Friday:

By Appointment Only

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed

What Our Patients Say About Us

  • "You have reached the pinnacle of the finest dental practice if you choose ATKINSON DENTAL HEALTH CENTER. Excellence through and through. The staff outstanding, kind, caring, and professional. You could not ask for more. The facility is top notch - state of the art equipment and it's immaculate. They are the Best of the Best !!!!!!!"
    Mimi G.
  • "For 14 years I have struggled with a bad root canal! 14 years of pain and infections and each dentist I saw seemed to make it worse. When I met Dr. Reed I was pretty traumatized but he was the most compassionate doctor I have ever met! It feels great knowing I have finally found a dentist I can trust."
    Rebecca H.
  • "This is really one of my favorite places to go! Yes, to the dentist! Not only is the environment calm and inviting and feels like a spa, but everyone is so kind and courteous. The team is wonderful and just makes every visit enjoyable."
    Mary M
  • "Just had my first visit with Dr. Reed. I’m very impressed with the entire experience. Everyone was friendly, professional and competent. Dr. Reed took the time to explain everything I needed to know. I know I made the right decision to come to this practice."
    Mark D.
  • "I have been a client of Dr. Perreault and his amazing team of professionals for many years! I highly recommend them to anyone looking for a dedicated team who have years of experience and are top notch! I actually look forward to going to the dentist because I know I am in good hands with all my dental needs."
    Jeff G.
  • "I could not be more pleased with the dental treatments I have received here throughout the years/decades. Dr. Perreault's personal and thoughtful demeanor is only exceeded by his dentistry skills. He always has the latest technologies. His staff are professional and always make you feel you welcomed and comfortable."
    Paul S.
  • "I second ALL of the praise!!! Hands-down the cleanest most professional place I’ve ever been in.
    Caring ,compassionate , and absolutely the highest in professionalism!! As someone with a very high dental fear and anxiety..I would recommend this practice to the whole world !!
    Hats off to Dr. Perreault and all of his staff!!
    1000 stars if I could!!"
    Dave A.
  • "Great team, called with a tooth ache. They got me right in, staff was all very kind and friendly. Dr. Perreault explained everything clearly. Made an appointment for my next visit. Would recommend to anyone. Happy to have been referred to them."
    Jeff B.