What is Alloderm?
Alloderm is a common name for a material that is used by dentists and oral surgeons in some patients for a gum graft, which is a procedure that builds up gum tissue that has been lost through oral disease.
The gum graft
Gum grafting is the treatment to consider if you suffer from gingival recession (receding gums). Gingival recession is a lowering of the level of the gums at the neck of the teeth. This phenomenon affects both the upper and lower teeth. As the gum no longer fulfills its protective role, the teeth can become sensitive to cold, hot and sweet. If you opt for a gum graft, you will experience the benefits of restoring gum function as well as aesthetics. Gum graft treatment is a common surgery and aims to recreate the gumline and prevent deterioration of the gums. Some gum graft treatments are done from a tissue sample located on your palate.
Allogeneic transplant (Alloderm)
The allograft is an alternative to a traditional grafting technique, as no removal is taken from the patient's own tissue. Instead, the graft comes from treated AlloDerm tissue from human donors. This tissue has been transformed to create a regenerative tissue matrix made from collagen. This type of transplant stimulates a process of self-regeneration of the patient's tissues.
This gum grafting technique is done without taking a sample from your mouth, thus reducing postoperative pain. The graft used in the gum graft technique is actually a membrane based on donor tissue that has been synthesized. We exclude the cells from it to create a regenerative tissue matrix (connective tissue matrix). This type of graft has also been commonly used in hospitals for several years, in particular to treat severe burns. These tissues undergo several thorough procedures and screenings to ensure excellent graft quality. Since the debut of AlloDerm in 1994, over one million gum graft surgeries have been successfully performed. A large number of dentists and specialists opt for this technique for their gum graft treatment because of the many advantages.
The procedure is the same as for the traditional method. The graft is sutured to the loosening area to restore a sufficient amount of gum tissue around the teeth. Once healing is complete, tooth sensitivity is eliminated and the gum regains good stability. Since the patient's palate remains untouched, the allograft procedure is less painful.
Advantages
- No removal of tissue from the palate, eliminating the risk of potential complications and pain;
- Aesthetically pleasing results;
- Excellent success rate.
Prevention of gingival diseases
Gingival diseases, which are often the cause of tooth loss, set in slyly because they are painless in the early stages. However, they can have harmful consequences if they are not diagnosed and treated in time. Learning a good, gentle brushing technique helps protect and keep your gums healthy. Regular visits to the dentist and professional cleanings by the hygienist are also essential.
If your gums seem thin in places, some teeth seem longer than others, or tooth sensitivity persists at any time, do not hesitate to consult your dentist, as they will be able to talk with you about any solutions for the health of your gums and your whole smile.