Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are the surgical experts in dentistry. Often, the soft tissues inside the mouth require surgery to reshape or restore tissues around teeth or implants. Soft tissue surgery can include augmentation, reduction or reshaping. The goal of oral soft tissue surgery is to restore and maintain attractive and healthy tissues.
Reduction/Reshaping Procedures
Soft tissue reduction is sometimes necessary for such conditions as:
- Gum enlargement (due to medications or irritation)
- Excess soft tissue when full or partial dentures are planned
- Access to impacted teeth to attach orthodontic devices (braces)
- To allow your dentist to prepare teeth for crowns or place dental restorations
We will work closely with your family dentist or dental specialist when reducing and reshaping the soft tissues of the jaws.
Augmentation Procedures
Often, a lack of quality tissue around teeth or dental implants can be treated by soft tissue grafting. This enhances the look and maintenance of teeth and implants, and is important for long-term health. Soft tissue grafts are often taken from the roof of your mouth and transplanted to the graft site. In some cases, soft tissue graft substitutes may be appropriate for your case. Your oral surgeon will recommend they type of soft tissue graft that is best for your care. Soft tissue grafts may take a number of weeks to heal. Since the final size and form of the graft cannot be exactly predicted, it may be necessary to do some minor recontouring of the grafted tissue after it heals in order to give the best result.