Soft Tissue Grafting at Loudoun Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

Expert Care for Gum Health

At Loudoun Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, our skilled surgeons – Dr. Andrew E. Bluhm, Dr. Steve S. Dorsch, Dr. Gene A. “Jay” Vandervort, and Dr. Amir Itani – specialize in soft tissue grafting. We proudly serve patients in South Riding, Ashburn, and Leesburg, VA, offering advanced care to enhance gum health and protect your smile.

What is Soft Tissue Grafting?

Soft tissue grafting is a procedure that repairs areas of gum recession by adding new tissue to the affected areas. This treatment helps cover exposed roots, reducing sensitivity and preventing further recession. It is particularly beneficial for patients with gum disease, overaggressive brushing habits, or natural gum loss, as well as those looking to improve the aesthetics of their smile.

Why is Soft Tissue Grafting Needed?

Soft tissue grafting may be recommended for patients who:

• Have exposed tooth roots due to gum recession, causing sensitivity and discomfort
• Wish to improve gum health and prevent further tissue loss
• Are preparing for restorative treatments such as dental implants or other prosthetics
• Desire a more balanced, aesthetically pleasing smile by restoring lost gum tissue

Our team will conduct a thorough examination to determine if soft tissue grafting is appropriate for your needs, using advanced imaging such as the i-CAT™ Cone Beam Scanner to plan the most effective treatment.

Types of Soft Tissue Grafts

Depending on your condition, our surgeons may recommend one of the following types of grafts:

• Connective Tissue Grafts: The most common type, connective tissue grafts involve taking tissue from beneath the roof of the mouth and securing it over the receded area. This method is effective for covering exposed roots and restoring gum health.
• Free Gingival Grafts: This technique is suitable for patients with thinner gums, as it uses tissue taken directly from the roof of the mouth to thicken the existing gum tissue.
• Pedicle Grafts: This type of graft uses tissue adjacent to the receding area, repositioning it to cover the exposed root. This option is only suitable for patients with adequate nearby tissue.

During your consultation, our doctors will assess which type of grafting is best suited for your needs, ensuring optimal results for your gum health and comfort.

The Soft Tissue Grafting Process

1. Consultation and Treatment Planning: Your surgeon will evaluate your gums and discuss the grafting options. This initial consultation includes a detailed explanation of the procedure and expected results.
2. Anesthesia and Grafting Procedure: We offer Anesthesia & IV Sedation options to ensure comfort throughout the grafting process. The procedure is performed with minimal discomfort and involves carefully securing the grafted tissue to the affected area.‍
3. Healing and Recovery: Post-procedure, our team provides detailed Surgical Instructions to support your recovery. Patients may experience minor swelling and tenderness initially, but these symptoms subside with time. For enhanced healing, we may utilize Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF), which uses natural growth factors to encourage tissue regeneration.

Benefits of Soft Tissue Grafting

Soft tissue grafting offers numerous benefits, including:

• Reduced Tooth Sensitivity: Covering exposed roots helps reduce sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, allowing for greater comfort.
• Improved Aesthetics: Restoring gum tissue creates a more balanced, attractive smile, enhancing both appearance and confidence.
• Enhanced Gum Health: Grafting helps protect against further gum recession and reduces the risk of decay and bone loss.‍
• Increased Stability for Restorative Procedures: Healthy gums are essential for supporting treatments like dental implants, ensuring long-term results and stability.

Why Choose Loudoun Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery for Soft Tissue Grafting?

Our surgeons are highly skilled in performing soft tissue grafting with precision and care. We use advanced technology, including Piezosurgery, to enhance accuracy and minimize impact on surrounding tissues. With a focus on patient comfort, our team is committed to achieving exceptional results for each individual. With convenient locations in South Riding, Ashburn, and Leesburg, we make it easy for patients across Northern Virginia to access expert care.