What is a Periodontics CTG?
In dentistry, the acronym CTG stands for “Connective Tissue Graft.” A connective tissue graft is one of a few types of gum tissue grafts that can be used to restore gums that have receded or deteriorated.
What is gum recession?
Your gums are arranged around the necks of the teeth and cover the periodontium evenly. The periodontium is the set of structures that support the tooth and bind it to the bone, i.e., the gum, periodontal ligament, bone, and root cementum which covers the surface of the roots. Exposing this complex of elements to damage or pathogens can have unpleasant consequences, such as periodontitis which leads to tooth loss. This scenario is closely related to gum recession. This process, in fact, leads the gum to withdraw, moving from its natural position and exposing the roots of the teeth to the outside. The recession occurs gradually and can be visually perceived as an elongation of the tooth. All teeth can be affected by gum recession; however, the canines and premolars are the teeth most affected.
What is Gum Grafting?
Gum grafting is an oral surgical procedure required to correct gum recessions. It is an operation that creates or increases, based on the specific case, an adequate thickness of the gum around teeth (or implants) that would otherwise remain uncovered. The tissue used is taken from the patient himself through a small incision in the palate, so as to take the necessary tissue and graft or transplant it where necessary to stabilize the gingival margin for functional and aesthetic purposes.
The signs and symptoms of receding gums
Gingival recession acts on two levels: on the one hand it affects functionality, on the other it affects aesthetics. The uncovered root of the tooth causes dental sensitivity, in some cases so manifest as to even lead to devitalization. Also, with the root exposed, brushing could damage the tooth. On an aesthetic level, gum recession leads to an imbalance between the teeth, gums and lips. The tooth is perceived as "long", making the smile appear less harmonious.
The gums have an essential function for the health of the mouth. Thanks to them, in fact, it is possible to protect the periodontium, i.e., the supporting tissues of the tooth, from external agents, mainly bacteria. In some cases, however, gum recession can occur. The gums can get very thin and withdraw, exposing the root of your tooth. This condition must often be treated with surgery that restores the correct extension and position of the gum over the entire dental arch, essentially recovering the bottom of the tooth with a piece of gum tissue that is harvested from the patient or other biocompatible sources.
What is a CTG?
Specifically, this type of graft is a graft where the tissue used for the graft is taken, not from the outer most layer of mouth or palette tissue, but rather from the connective tissue directly underneath the outer layer. This tissue is slightly thicker and stronger than that found on the outside layer of the gums. This technique is used often when there is no existing gum tissue where the graft is placed and/or thicker tissue is indicated for the patient.