Treating Gum Recession May Become Virtually Painless, Says Study

Researchers from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, in Boston Massachusetts, have discovered a painless way for treating patients with gum recession.

According to a press release, the new tissue regeneration application from Tufts uses platelet concentrate gel applied to a collagen membrane as the graft instead of using tissue from the roof of the mouth. The graft is soaked in the patient's platelets, using blood drawn in the same visit. Placed over the receding tooth root, the graft is then surgically secured. Traditional treatment for gum recession is considered very painful. Excised tissue from the roof of the patients mouth is used to graft new tissue onto area's where there is considerable root exposure. Pain and discomfort, along with a longer recovery time are a notable problems associated with gum grafting surgery.

Gum recession is synonymous with gum disease. Gum recession usually begins undetected in the early stages of gum disease, known as gingivitis. As the gingival sulcus begins to deepen, advanced gum disease --also known as periodontitis-- contributes to severe gum recession, bone loss and eventually the loss of the teeth. By providing a painless option for treating gum recession, more patients may decide to explore treating advanced gum recession, rather than extracting the teeth as their only option, to restore the health of their mouth along with the esthetics's of the teeth and gums.