How painful is CTG (Continuous Tissue Graft)?
Tissue grafting is typically used to repair receding gums or treat gums affected by gum disease. Grafting can also be a cosmetic procedure which focuses on improving the appearance of the patient’s smile. In most cases, the procedure adds tissue to the gum line, however, tissue can also be removed.
Recession of the gums occurs when the tissue surrounding the teeth begins to shrink and pull away from the tooth. The tooth or root can be exposed the root and there can be damage to the surrounding bone. Gum recession is relatively common, affecting many adults each year.
Gum recession often happens slowly over a long period of time. An early sign of receding gums is increased sensitivity to hot or cold foods. Severe cases of gum recession can result in the loss of the tooth. Continuous tissue grafting is an excellent solution used to repair the gums.
The connective tissue graft (CTG) procedure was developed to address the challenges associated with receding gums. CTG can help treat receding gums, restoring root support. The procedure also aids in restoring the patient’s smile. Rather than harvesting gum from the outer epithelial layer tissues from the roof of the mouth, connective tissue grafts use underlying connective tissue. This helps to preserve the outer epithelial tissue.
A connective tissue graft is essentially painless. The surface tissues from the palate are intimately readapted and promote rapid healing. The connective tissue contains blood vessels which is critical in the grafted tissue reattaching to the adjacent gum tissue. A connective tissue graft remains vital when it is placed over root surface which is exposed. The original flap of gum tissue is then advanced to cover the connective tissue graft, offering a blood supply. This also helps re-establish any lost gum height. During the healing process, the connective tissue graft will form a new attachment. This restores the tooth’s root support. Connective tissue graft surgery helps to restore both the appearance and function of the gums.
Prior to completing a tissue graft, a local anesthetic is applied to ensure the area is numb. The anesthetic ensures the patient does not experience any pain during the procedure. The dental professionals will work diligently to ensure the patient is comfortable throughout the treatment process.
Once the surgery is complete, a dressing is placed over the grafting area to protect the gums during the healing process. Once the anesthetic beings to wear off, patients may experience some slight discomfort. Patients can use an over-the-counter pain medication or obtain a prescription for an extra strength Tylenol to offer relief, as needed. The doctor may also write a prescription for antibiotics to prevent any infection. It is important to follow the instructions and take all antibiotics included in the prescription.
The underlying connective tissue actually defines the characteristics associated with the overlying tissue. As a result, the overlying epithelial cells ultimately transform and adapt to the characteristics of the underlying connective tissue which is placed during the graft. Because of this, the functionality and appearance of the gums is restored.
The continuous tissue graft will not only aid in reestablishing support for the teeth, but will also help restore the appearance of the patient’s smile. The grafted gum tissue will blend seamlessly with the existing natural gum tissue and be virtually identical. It is nearly impossible to distinguish between the connective tissue grafts and the existing natural gums.
Follow up with your dentist or periodontist to discuss if you may be a good candidate for a continuous tissue graft.