Root exposure can cause substantial pain and discomfort. Eating hot, cold or even warm foods can cause severe discomfort. If you have receding gums, a gum graft can help cover your exposed tooth roots. A connective tissue graft is one of the most common types of gum grafts
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Gum recession can cause not only aesthetic concerns but also significant discomfort and potential long-term damage as tooth roots become exposed to the oral environment. Connective tissue grafting represents the gold standard for treating recession, providing effective coverage of exposed roots while enhancing the quality and thickness of gum tissue. At Park Smiles NYC, our experienced team performs sophisticated connective tissue graft procedures using microsurgical techniques in our state-of-the-art Manhattan facility, offering superior results with enhanced comfort.
A connective tissue graft is a specialized periodontal procedure designed to treat gum recession by covering exposed tooth roots with healthy tissue harvested from another area of the mouth, typically the palate. This gold-standard technique not only covers unsightly root exposure but also reinforces the gum tissue with stronger, thicker tissue that resists future recession.
The procedure involves collecting a small amount of connective tissue from beneath the surface of the palate through a small incision, leaving the surface tissue intact for faster healing at the donor site. This harvested connective tissue is then carefully positioned over the exposed root area and secured with fine sutures. Over time, this grafted tissue integrates with the surrounding gums, creating a natural-looking, stable gumline that protects the tooth root.
Unlike older graft techniques that removed surface tissue from the palate (causing a painful “wound”), modern connective tissue grafting maintains the surface layer intact at the donor site, resulting in significantly less discomfort and faster healing. At Park Smiles NYC, we further enhance this procedure through microsurgical techniques that allow for more precise tissue manipulation, smaller incisions, and superior aesthetic results. Our approach emphasizes both functional improvement—protecting vulnerable roots and reducing sensitivity—and aesthetic enhancement by restoring harmonious gumlines for a more balanced smile appearance.
During the procedure, a flap of skin is cut at the roof of your mouth (palate). Tissue from under the flap, called subepithelial connective tissue, is removed and then stitched to the gum tissue surrounding the exposed root. After the connective tissue has been removed from under the palatal flap, the flap is stitched back down.
Some dentists and patients prefer to use graft material from a tissue bank instead of from the roof of the mouth. Your Park Smiles NYC dentist will tell you which method will work best for you.
Reverse gum recession with advanced grafting techniques. Our Manhattan specialists provide expert connective tissue grafts that protect your teeth and enhance your smile.
At Park Smiles NYC, our connective tissue graft procedures are performed by our experienced team of specialists who have undergone advanced training in periodontal microsurgery and soft tissue grafting techniques. Our staff includes professionals specifically skilled in the delicate tissue manipulation required for successful grafting procedures. Dr. Krystle Kendall collaborates with our periodontal specialists to ensure comprehensive care that addresses both the functional and aesthetic aspects of gum recession.
Our team’s approach to connective tissue grafting emphasizes precision, tissue conservation, and patient comfort. We utilize state-of-the-art microsurgical equipment for enhanced visualization and technique refinement. Throughout your surgical journey, our entire staff provides attentive care with clear communication about what to expect during the procedure and recovery. Our specialists regularly participate in continuing education focused on advances in periodontal plastic surgery, ensuring that you receive the most current and effective treatment approaches for your recession.
Good candidates for connective tissue grafting typically have one or more of these clinical situations: exposed tooth roots due to gum recession; thin, fragile gum tissue prone to further recession; root sensitivity from exposed surfaces; concerns about root decay or wear; or aesthetic issues from visible recession that creates “long teeth” or uneven gumlines. Ideal candidates should have good oral hygiene and overall periodontal health, as active gum disease must be controlled before grafting. The best way to determine if you’re a suitable candidate is through a comprehensive evaluation at Park Smiles NYC, where we assess factors including recession severity, tissue quality, root surface condition, and contributing factors like brushing habits or bite forces. We also consider your health history, as certain conditions or medications may influence grafting decisions. During this consultation, we can discuss realistic expectations for root coverage based on your specific situation and whether alternatives might be appropriate in your case.
Modern connective tissue grafting performed with microsurgical techniques involves significantly less discomfort than older grafting methods. The procedure itself is performed under thorough local anesthesia, ensuring you feel no pain during treatment. For anxious patients, we offer sedation options that provide deep relaxation throughout the procedure. Following surgery, most patients experience mild to moderate discomfort for 2-3 days, primarily at the palatal donor site rather than the treated recession area. This discomfort is typically well-managed with prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication. We provide a protective stent for the palatal harvest site that significantly enhances comfort during initial healing. Most patients report that the recovery is much more comfortable than they anticipated, with many returning to normal activities within 24-48 hours. By day 4-5, most individuals experience only minimal discomfort that continues to improve daily. Our detailed post-operative instructions and proactive pain management approach help ensure a comfortable recovery experience.
When performed by experienced specialists using microsurgical techniques, connective tissue grafting typically achieves 70-95% root coverage in most cases, with many sites achieving complete coverage. Results vary based on several factors including the initial recession depth, tooth position, root anatomy, and tissue thickness. Areas with minimal to moderate recession (1-3mm) generally achieve the most predictable complete coverage, while deeper recession may see significant improvement but potentially not complete coverage. Beyond the measurable root coverage, patients can expect thicker, stronger gum tissue that resists future recession, significant reduction or elimination of root sensitivity, and enhanced aesthetic appearance with more harmonious gumlines. The grafted tissue develops a natural color and texture that blends with surrounding tissue, typically becoming indistinguishable within a few months of healing. With proper oral hygiene and management of contributing factors like brushing technique, these results are generally stable long-term, with studies showing excellent maintenance of coverage 5+ years after successful grafting.
At Park Smiles NYC in Manhattan, NYC, our mission is to provide every patient with exceptional care, prioritizing comfort, compassion, and excellence at every step.
We are dedicated to delivering outstanding results through personalized attention in a welcoming and supportive environment. Led by Dr. Krystle Kendall, D.M.D., our skilled team offers a full range of top-quality dental services—all conveniently available under one roof in Manhattan.
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If you are ready to enhance your smile, the experienced cosmetic dentists at Park Smiles NYC are here to help. Our dedicated team offers a comprehensive range of services, from orthodontics to teeth whitening, to meet all your oral health needs. We understand the importance of a healthy smile for your overall well-being and are committed to ensuring your satisfaction throughout your treatment journey.
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