Soft Tissue Graft in Greensburg, PA

Enhance Your Candidacy for Dental Implant Placement

Dental implants have revolutionized restorative dentistry by providing a durable and natural-looking solution for missing teeth. However, some patients may need to undergo supplemental procedures like soft tissue augmentation to ensure their gums are prepared for implant placement. 

Dr. Del Kovacevic, one of the best dentists in Greensburg, PA, provides painless and customized soft tissue grafting procedures to patients in Allen, Bovard, and South Greensburg. Read on to learn more. 

What is Soft Tissue Augmentation?

Soft tissue augmentation involves the transplantation of healthy gum tissue to enhance the appearance and functionality of dental implants. This innovative technique creates a natural and harmonious smile that boosts your confidence and oral health. By addressing areas where gum tissue may be lacking, soft tissue grafting ensures seamless integration between implants and surrounding tissues.

Benefits of Soft Tissue Augmentation

Under the expert care of Dr. Kovacevic, soft tissue augmentation offers a range of remarkable benefits:

• Enhanced Aesthetics: Achieve a symmetrical and visually appealing smile that reflects your true radiance.
• Improved Implant Stability: Strengthen the gum tissue surrounding dental implants, leading to enhanced stability and longevity of the implants.
• Boosted Confidence: Enjoy the renewed self-assurance that comes with a confident and captivating smile.
• Reduced Sensitivity: Alleviate gum sensitivity and discomfort, contributing to improved overall oral well-being.
• Optimized Functionality: Properly aligned gum tissue aids in optimal oral functions such as speaking and chewing.

When is Soft Tissue Augmentation Necessary?

Dr. Kovacevic may recommend a soft tissue graft to patients with: 

• Insufficient Gum Tissue: When there’s inadequate gum tissue around dental implants, augmentation ensures proper support and aesthetic appeal.
• Insufficient Candidacy for Implant Placement: Before or after dental implant placement, soft tissue augmentation may be required to create a balanced and natural-looking smile.
• Gum Recession: If gum recession has occurred due to factors such as periodontal disease, augmentation can restore the gums to their original position.

How Does Soft Tissue Augmentation Work?

Evaluation and Planning

Before the soft tissue augmentation procedure, your Greensburg dentist will carefully evaluate your dental and gum health. He’ll assess the implant site, the condition of your existing gum tissue, and the desired outcome. Based on this assessment, a customized treatment plan will be created.

Soft Tissue Augmentation Techniques:

There are several techniques used for soft tissue augmentation around dental implants:

• Connective Tissue Graft: This method involves taking a small piece of tissue from the roof of your mouth (palate) or a donor source and stitching it to the area around the implant. The grafted tissue helps create a more natural gum contour and covers any exposed implant surfaces.
• Gingival Graft: Similar to a connective tissue graft, a small piece of tissue is taken from the palate or a donor source and placed directly over the implant site to increase gum thickness and coverage.
• Pedicle Graft: In this technique, existing gum tissue near the implant site is repositioned to cover the implant area. This is suitable when there is adequate tissue nearby that can be shifted.
• Allografts and Xenografts: These involve using processed and sterilized human or animal tissue from a tissue bank to augment the gum tissue around the implant.

Suturing and Healing

Once the soft tissue augmentation is completed, your surgeon will carefully suture the grafted tissue in place. Sutures help secure the tissue and promote proper healing. The grafted tissue will eventually integrate with the existing gum tissue over time.

Aftercare for Soft Tissue Augmentation

Aftercare is essential following a soft tissue grafting procedure, and Dr. Kovacevic may recommend that you:

• Address Swelling and Bruising: Swelling and bruising are common after soft tissue augmentation. Applying cold compresses can help reduce swelling. Avoiding blood-thinning medications and supplements before the procedure can also minimize bruising.
• Avoid Excessive Pressure: Be gentle with the treated area and avoid applying excessive pressure or massaging it in the days following the procedure. This helps prevent the material from moving or shifting.
• Apply Sun Protection: Protect the treated area from sun exposure by wearing sunscreen and avoiding prolonged sun exposure. UV radiation can break down certain materials and compromise results.
• Maintain Healthy Habits: Maintain a healthy lifestyle by staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet, and getting adequate rest. This can support the healing process and contribute to long-lasting results.
• Schedule Follow-Up Appointments: Attend any follow-up appointments with Dr. Kovacevic. These appointments allow them to assess your progress and make any necessary adjustments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Improve Your Oral Health and Qualifications for Dental implants

If you’ve been told you don’t qualify for dental implants, consider soft tissue augmentation to boost your candidacy. Dr. Kovacevic and our team employ patient-oriented approaches to ensure your procedure is painless and successful. Call our Greensburg, PA, office at 724-834-2089 to schedule an appointment.