Root augmentation

Root augmentation is a periodontal procedure designed to strengthen and improve the stability of tooth roots that have been weakened or exposed due to gum disease. It plays an important role in protecting teeth from further damage, reducing sensitivity, and supporting long-term oral health.

When gum disease progresses, the gum tissue and bone supporting the teeth may begin to recede. This leaves parts of the tooth roots exposed, which can increase the risk of decay, mobility, and eventual tooth loss. Root augmentation helps to restore protection to these vulnerable areas.

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What is Root Augmentation?

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Root augmentation involves rebuilding or covering exposed tooth roots to improve gum attachment and reduce sensitivity. This procedure may use grafted tissue, either from the patient’s own mouth or from specially prepared donor material, to restore lost gum coverage around affected teeth.

In periodontitis, the gum and bone tissue that support the teeth are gradually destroyed. This process often leaves roots exposed and makes it difficult to maintain oral hygiene. Root augmentation addresses:

• Receding gums caused by periodontal disease.
• Increased sensitivity to hot or cold due to exposed roots.
• Higher risk of decay on root surfaces that are difficult to clean.
• Unstable teeth caused by reduced support.

The Root Augmentation Procedure

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Initial Assessment

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Before recommending root augmentation, a periodontal evaluation is carried out. This includes:

• Measuring gum recession and attachment loss.
• Reviewing X-rays to check the level of supporting bone.
• Assessing overall oral health and suitability for grafting procedures.

Treatment Steps

1. Anaesthesia: Local anaesthesia is applied to keep the procedure comfortable.
2. Gum preparation: The affected area is carefully cleaned, and the gum tissue is prepared.
3. Graft placement: Grafted tissue, either from the roof of the mouth or from donor material, is placed over the exposed root surface.
4. Stabilisation: The graft is secured with sutures to allow it to integrate with the existing gum tissue.
5. Healing: Over time, the graft blends with the natural gum, covering the root and improving stability.

The procedure time depends on the number of teeth treated and the extent of gum recession.

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Recovery and Aftercare

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After root augmentation, patients may experience mild swelling, tenderness, or sensitivity. Recovery typically involves:

• Following a soft-food diet for several days.
• Use an antimicrobial mouth rinse as directed.
• Taking prescribed medication to manage discomfort.
• Returning for follow-up visits to monitor healing.

Complete healing may take several weeks, and the success of the graft relies heavily on good oral hygiene and regular professional care.

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Benefits of Root Augmentation in Gum Disease

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Root augmentation provides several key benefits for patients affected by gum disease:

• Protection of exposed roots: Reduces the risk of decay and further structural damage.
• Reduced sensitivity: Covering exposed roots helps minimise discomfort from hot, cold, or sweet foods.
• Improved gum health: Reinforces gum tissue attachment, making it harder for bacteria to invade.
• Better tooth stability: Strengthens the support around teeth weakened by periodontal disease.
• Enhanced appearance: Restores a more natural gum line, reducing the look of long or uneven teeth.

Risks and Considerations

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Although root augmentation is a safe and effective procedure, there are some considerations:

• Graft success: In rare cases, grafted tissue may not fully integrate, requiring further treatment.
• Sensitivity during healing: Some patients may experience temporary sensitivity before the gums fully recover.
• Changes in gum appearance: The colour and texture of grafted tissue may differ slightly from the natural gum.
• Healing variation: Healing times vary depending on general health, smoking status, and oral hygiene.

These risks are usually minor and can be managed with careful aftercare and regular check-ups.

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Root Augmentation and Other Periodontal

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Treatments

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Root augmentation is often part of a wider periodontal care plan. It may be combined with:

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Scaling and Root Planing

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Before augmentation, scaling and root planing are usually carried out to remove bacteria and tartar from below the gum line.

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Crown Lengthening

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In some cases, crown lengthening and root augmentation are performed together to reshape gum tissue while protecting exposed roots.

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Bone Grafting

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When gum disease has caused significant bone loss, root augmentation may be combined with bone grafting to restore both soft and hard tissue support.

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Long-Term Care After Root Augmentation

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The success of root augmentation depends on long-term care. Patients are advised to:

• Brush gently with a soft-bristle toothbrush or soft-bristle dental cleaning tools to reduce plaque build-up.
• Avoid hard or crunchy foods during healing.
• Refrain from smoking, as it interferes with graft success.
• Visit the dentist regularly for maintenance and monitoring.

By following these steps, patients can help ensure the graft remains stable and continues to protect their teeth.

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Book a Consultation with Alpha Dental Group

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Root augmentation is an important periodontal treatment for patients affected by gum disease. Restoring tooth roots helps protect against decay, reduce sensitivity, and maintain tooth stability. Combined with other periodontal therapies, root augmentation contributes significantly to long-term gum health.

If you have gum recession or are concerned about exposed tooth roots linked to gum disease, book a consultation with Alpha Dental Group. Our dental team will carry out a full assessment and explain whether root augmentation could form part of your treatment plan.