Restoring Gum Health Before Orthodontic Treatment

Case Summary

The patient was referred by the orthdontist for evaluation of their gum tissues, which showed signs of plaque accumulation, sensitivity, and gingival recession, particularly in the lower front teeth area. These issues needed to be addressed before proceeding with orthodontic treatment. The treatment plan was carried out in two phases. First, the patient underwent a thorough cleaning of their teeth and received detailed instructions on how to maintain good oral hygiene. Then, a free gingival graft was performed, where tissue was taken from the roof of the mouth and transplanted to the affected area, followed by sutures to secure it in place. As a result of these treatments, the patient experienced full coverage of the tooth roots, an increase in the amount of gum tissue, and improvement in tissue thickness, setting a solid foundation for their upcoming orthodontic treatment.