Gum Grafting

Just like teeth, gums can become unhealthy to the point where they need repair. For instance, gum recession can occur when gum disease progresses. When the gums pull back, the teeth are not supported as they should be. Dr. Richard Richter, DMD, FAGD of Patchogue Family Dental in East Patchogue, NY and Hampton Family Dental in East Quogue, NY can perform gum grafts to repair the gums back to a normal and healthy state.

In a healthy mouth, the gums should fit around the teeth snugly. They should be in a position so that you can still get under them to floss, but also tight enough so that bacteria and other debris cannot fall down into them. Gum disease is a major contributor to gum recession, although it is not the only case where patients have recessed gums. Some patients just naturally have a smaller amount of gum tissue.

When the gums recess, the roots of the teeth are exposed which can result in pain and sensitivity. In order to add gum tissue and cover the exposed tooth roots, we take soft tissue from the palate or from another area of the gums and move it over to where extra tissue is needed. We stitch the gums down so that they can heal and promote further gum growth. The end result is a healthy gum line that supports teeth and keeps bacteria out.

If you suspect you have recessed gums or gum disease, be sure to schedule an appointment with Dr. Richard Richter, DMD, FAGD. A gum graft may put you back on track to oral health. To schedule at Patchogue Family Dental of East Patchogue, NY call (631) 475-1191. To schedule at Hampton Family Dental of East Quogue, NY call (631) 653-5888. Appointments may also be requested on our website, www.pfdentpc.com. 

The Extraction Process

It is always best to keep your natural teeth; however, when they are posing a risk to your oral health, it can sometimes be best to remove them. Dr. Richard Richter, DMD, FAGD of Patchogue Family Dental in East Patchogue, NY and Hampton Family Dental in East Quogue, NY performs dental extractions to restore his patients’ oral health.

When teeth are infected, impacted, poorly placed, or damaged, it can severely alter your oral health. Teeth in these conditions need to be removed to decrease risk of infection and further injury. To begin the process, Dr. Richter will numb the area of the tooth or he may use a general anesthesia, depending on the complexity of the extraction and if multiple teeth are being removed. If the tooth is impacted, Dr. Richter will make an incision in the gums to reveal the tooth. Bone tissue may also need to be removed to access the tooth. The tooth will be rocked back and forth with forceps to loosen it. When it is loose enough, it is pulled free from the jaw bone. The area is then cleaned up and stitches are placed, if necessary.

After your extraction, you will want to rest and eat soft foods. Do not lie down flat, drink through a straw, or do any strenuous activity that may promote bleeding.

For more information about dental extractions, do not hesitate to ask. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Richard Richter, DMD, FAGD, call Patchogue Family Dental of East Patchogue, NY at (631) 475-1191 or call Hampton Family Dental of East Quogue, NY at (631) 653-5888. Appointments may also be requested on our website, www.pfdentpc.com.