Concord MA Periodontist Explains the Process of a Gum Graft

After you’ve received treatment for periodontal disease with LANAP®, your Concord MA periodontist may recommend gum graft surgery to restore health to your gums and beauty to your smile. Both of these treatments are one of Dr. Grossman’s expertise. Read on to learn more about gum graft surgery and LANAP.

The Advantages of Gum Graft Surgery

After treatment for gum disease with LANAP, a non-invasive soft tissue laser therapy that removes bacteria and toxins from inside diseased periodontal pockets, gum graft surgery may also be recommended. This surgery helps to further reduce gum recession that may have occurred as a result of gum disease. In addition, gum grafting aids in protecting the underlying bone structure that may also have been damaged. Finally, a gum graft helps to ward off root decay and improve the overall look of your smile.

Types of Gum Graft Surgery

There are three different types of gum grafts. Dr. Grossman will be able to recommend the one that is most appropriate for your circumstance. The types are:

Gingival grafts require Dr. Grossman to take a thin piece of tissue from the roof of your mouth and attach it to the gingival around the LANAP treated site.

With connective tissue grafts, tissue is removed from just underneath the roof of your mouth and is then used to restore missing gum tissue and to cover exposed tooth roots.

Sometimes, Dr. Grossman will opt to use donor tissue instead of your own for a gum graft. This is called a donor connective tissue graft.

What is LANAP?

In Concord, LANAP is soft-tissue laser therapy that Dr. Grossman uses to treat periodontitis, the advanced stage of gum disease. LANAP stands for Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure and eliminates the need for scalpel and stitches. This advanced technology uses a hair thin laser fiber to vaporize bacteria and toxins that are trapped in enlarged gum pockets around teeth. Left untreated, the bacteria can further invade gums, attack the underlying bone and ultimately lead to the need for tooth extraction.

In addition, LANAP disinfects the area as it removes bacteria and seals blood vessels as well as lymph and nerve tissue. Therefore, there is very little if any bleeding during or after treatment. Recovery is much shorter and easier, often requiring only short-term use of an over-the-counter analgesic for discomfort.

Most of the time, Dr. Grossman can treat your whole mouth in only two LANAP appointments; one side of your mouth is treated at the first visit and the other side at the second.

Contact Our Office Today

If you’ve been told that you have periodontitis and you’re looking for comfortable treatment, consider LANAP and gum grafting in Concord with Dr. Grossman. Call our office today to schedule a consultation.