Bone & Gum Grafting in Hamilton​

Bone and gum grafting are procedures that are necessary to restore a jaw bone weakened by bone loss or rebuild thinning or receding gum tissue. People who suffer from periodontal disease may need these procedures done before restorative dental treatments, such as dental implants, can be performed. Dental implants at Century Stone Dental in Hamilton are a method of tooth replacement for missing teeth, which can also provide long-lasting stability for a dental bridge. Adequate bone and gum is needed for this, however, so bone grafting and gum grafts can help those who would otherwise be unable to have a dental implant. Grafts also help with other concerns related to thinning gums or bone loss, and can be done for cosmetic purposes.

WHAT DOES GUM AND BONE GRAFTING DO?

Gum recession is caused by gum disease, infection, genetically thin gums, and other causes. Bone density loss can occur because of aging, medications, and other reasons. If you've had one or more teeth missing for a long time, there's an increased chance that the bone underneath the gap may have deteriorated and lost bone mass and density, which may lead to further tooth loss. A breakdown in the jaw bone can also be caused by the following circumstances:

  • Infection
  • Facial trauma
  • Growth deformity
  • Periodontal disease
  • Untreated cavities

Bone and gum grafts are done to restore weakened bones and receding gums, to add strength and stability to your facial structure and teeth. They are also necessary if you are interested in a dental implant or implants to replace missing teeth and you do not have the required bone or gum mass. The jaw must have sufficient bone length and width to secure and support dental implants. To regenerate bone and facilitate new growth, bone grafting is performed with bone tissue taken from your own body or a donor source.

Often, the tissue is taken from healthy areas of your jaw or chin. The bone is then placed, or grafted, onto the area of your jaw that needs regeneration. Over time, the bone graft will fuse with your existing bone, and the cells will work together to create adequate tissue to support dental implants. There are several sources where the bone can come from, your Dentist will discuss what is the best option for you.

HOW ARE BONE GRAFTS HARVESTED AND PLACED?

A piece of bone will be removed from your chin, lower jaw, or other area to act as a graft. If multiple bone grafts are needed, bone will be harvested as necessary. An incision is made in your gum line below your bottom teeth to expose the chin. Then, a piece is removed, along with the bone marrow. The area where the bone is removed from may be filled with a bone graft material, and then the incision is closed with stitches.

The area that requires grafting will be exposed, and the graft will be placed and secured with titanium screws. Once the procedure is over, you’ll be given antibiotics and possibly pain medication to deal with any discomfort. You’ll be instructed on how to care for your grafting site to prevent disruption of the bone graft.

Gum Graft Procedures to Treat Gum Disease and Gum Recession

Gum disease can cause the gum line around your teeth to recede. If you have swollen or bleeding gums, these are symptoms you may have gum disease, which can worsen and become periodontal disease, which is more serious. Some people have naturally thin gum tissue, too, which increases the chances for gum breakdown over time. Over time, your gums may recede enough to expose the roots of your teeth. This also exposes nerves, which can cause discomfort and tooth sensitivity. Cold and hot foods and drinks, and even breathing cold air, can become uncomfortable if you have exposed roots. Root exposure, whether from gum disease, gum recession from naturally thin gums, or other causes, increases the likelihood of tooth decay and other oral health concerns, in addition to tooth sensitivity. Finally, exposed roots can also make teeth look elongated. A gum graft procedure can help, by working to rebuild gum tissue around your teeth and extend the gum line, to protect exposed roots and stabilize teeth.
Young woman lifting top lip to show gum inflammation in gum bone hamilton

HOW IS GUM GRAFTING PERFORMED?

The gum graft surgical procedure involves removing a small section of tissue from inside your mouth, usually the roof of your mouth, and layering it over the thinning or damaged areas of the gums, to protect and stabilize teeth better. There are several types of gum grafts.

Connective Tissue Graft

The connective tissue graft is used when there is a large area of roof exposure. The tissue is removed from the roof of the mouth and sutured onto the grafting site. The roof of the mouth offers a larger area from which to take donor tissue, especially important if larger areas require grafting.

Gingival Graft

If you have thin gum tissue, a gingival graft may be performed. There doesn’t need to be root or nerve exposure before your dentist can perform a gingival graft. A small piece of tissue is taken from the roof of your mouth and sutured to the thinning area of your gums. This can be performed to several thinning sites if needed. Over time, your gums will thicken and reduce the chance for exposed roots in the future.

Pedicle Graft

This graft is used if your gums have receded, but are otherwise healthy. A flap of tissue is cut, but left attached at one end, and is then moved sideways to cover exposed roots. This is an ideal graft, as the blood vessels remain in place.

SPEAK TO YOUR DENTIST ABOUT THIS PROCEDURE TODAY!

At Century Stone Dental, we are happy to answer any questions you may have about this procedure. Call our office to book an appointment for one of our services today. Call at 905-545-4833 or email us at [email protected]