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Daryl E. Malena DDS Periodontics |
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The
first documented gingival
grafts (skin grafts of gum tissue) were done over one hundred years ago,
but the procedure did not become routine until about thirty years
ago. Dr. Malena began doing gingival grafts in 1969 while teaching
at the University of Nebraska College of Dentistry. He is an
innovator in the area, having created new suturing systems and methods
for grafting separate layers of tissue.
Gingival recession is the primary reason periodontists graft gingival tissue to other areas of the mouth. Gingival grafts are also used to enhance the effectiveness of some bone grafts, to strengthen the gingiva to avoid future recession and to cover discolored areas of gingiva. There are four or five major categories of surgery used to graft gingiva, and numerous variations. There also are choices to be made about the donor tissue. An examination and proper diagnosis is necessary to determine which is most appropriate for a given case, and not all gingival recession needs to be treated. Currently, the most common procedure used to repair recession is the subepithelial connective tissue graft. Often the free gingival graft is used to prevent future recession. It is the subtle variations of the procedures that make the most difference in comfort and long term success. We take pride in our long record of gentle gingival surgery. Select from the topics at the left, or use the Search feature to find what you are looking for. If you have questions, feel free to contact us. |
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