Soft tissues plastic surgery

At the dawn of dental implantology, all the attention of doctors was focused directly on the implant itself. It used to be believed that achieving a strong connection between the implant and the bone was enough to guarantee success. However, today numerous studies leave no doubt: the long-term prognosis of implantation depends on the quality of the gums no less than on the implant itself. In this article, we will take a closer look at the role of soft tissues in oral health and the methods of improving them.

It has been proven that the quality and quantity of gum tissue directly affect the lifespan of an implant. The oral cavity hosts many microorganisms, and healthy gums act as a barrier preventing bacteria from reaching the implant. The problem arises when, after tooth extraction, the bone resorbs and the gum tissue recedes along with it. Therefore, the longer you postpone visiting an implantologist, the more likely you will need gum grafting and/or bone augmentation to correct soft tissue defects in the future.

Naturally, the implant surgeon is concerned about gum quality, as it directly affects the outcome of their work. But no less interest in soft tissues comes from the prosthodontist. For a prosthodontist to place a beautiful and functional crown on an implant, there must be sufficient gum tissue around it. And it must be dense gum tissue — like that of the palate. This is why the palate is often the donor site for gum grafts. But there is no need to worry: after such a procedure, the donor area heals completely with new gum tissue.

Gum grafting becomes even more significant when implants are placed in the smile zone. In such cases, considerable effort is directed toward aesthetic rehabilitation, ensuring that the crown and implant are indistinguishable from natural teeth — something impossible without gum plastic surgery. Since aesthetic demands are very high nowadays, patients need to understand the essential stages required to achieve the desired result.

Thus, soft tissue grafting in dentistry is a surgical procedure aimed at changing the shape and/or position of gingival tissues and the oral mucosa.

This procedure may include various techniques such as gingival margin correction, removal of excess gum tissue (gingivectomy), labial frenum and vestibule surgery (vestibuloplasty), elimination of periodontal pockets, and other manipulations to improve smile aesthetics and oral health.

Soft Tissue Grafting in Minsk

According to practical needs and patient expectations, soft tissue surgery in Minsk is well developed. This is why patients come here not only from different cities of Belarus but also from neighboring countries: local specialists offer solutions for a wide range of dental problems. The responsibility and professionalism of Belarusian doctors are reflected in numerous positive reviews.

One of the specialists whose professional opinion is highly respected by both patients and colleagues is Dr. Vladimir Leonidovich Sheleg, implant surgeon at SHEDO Dental Clinic. Years of intensive practice have allowed Dr. Sheleg to master the subtleties of implantology. His portfolio includes both complex dental implant surgeries (including zygomatic implantation) and routine gum rehabilitation performed during implant placement.

We provide a wide range of services, including treatment for international patients. If you are located outside Belarus, you can benefit from online consultations with the surgeon, remote treatment planning, and full assistance at every stage. Contact us to learn more.

Thanks to a deep understanding of the problem, the use of modern technologies, and innovative techniques, Dr. Sheleg and other specialists ensure high-quality medical care and patient comfort, which is confirmed by their reviews after treatment. It is no secret that gum plastic surgery is a delicate and meticulous procedure, so choosing your doctor responsibly is essential.

Indications for Soft Tissue Grafting

Cases requiring gum grafting may vary depending on the patient’s specific condition. They can be divided into three main groups:

• Functional problems: most often, gum grafting is performed around implants when the shape or position of the soft tissues is insufficient for proper implantation and prosthetics.
• Aesthetic problems: in implant placement within the smile zone, a visible deficiency of soft tissues around the implant usually causes psychological discomfort for the patient. Therefore, gum grafting in this area is almost always performed. Gum frenulum surgery and/or gingival margin correction are also often required during or after orthodontic treatment.
• Periodontal problems: surgical interventions may be justified in the presence of periodontal pockets, excess gum tissue, or other changes that may contribute to periodontitis or other gum diseases.

Gum Grafting: Patient Recommendations

We would like to note that the information in this article is for reference only. Before undergoing any treatment, it is important to consult your doctor — in this case, both a dental surgeon and a prosthodontist — to develop a comprehensive treatment plan. If your plan includes soft tissue grafting, the best option is to ask your doctor how to prepare for the procedure. It is also crucial to follow postoperative wound care instructions and attend scheduled check-ups to monitor healing together with your doctor. This helps minimize risks of complications and ensures the best treatment results.

Gingivoplasty, Gingivectomy, Vestibuloplasty – What Do They Mean?

There are many different names for gum surgery procedures, from routine to rare, which may confuse patients. The most common ones are:

• Gingivoplasty (gum grafting): a general term for surgical procedures aimed at correcting the shape and position of gingival tissues. It may be performed for both aesthetic purposes and to improve gum health. During gingivoplasty, the surgeon removes excess gum tissue or reshapes it to achieve the desired functional and/or aesthetic outcome.
• Gingivectomy: a specific type of gum surgery, which involves removing overgrown gum tissue. Patients with hypertrophic gums, which make oral hygiene difficult or promote periodontal disease, may be recommended gingivectomy. This procedure restores the normal form and position of gum tissues.
• Vestibuloplasty: a surgical procedure designed to increase the depth of the oral vestibule — the space between the gums and the cheeks/lips. This may be recommended for patients with a congenitally shallow vestibule. Such a condition can lead to periodontal problems, gum recession, exposed tooth necks, and poor prognosis for implant placement.

Each type of soft tissue surgery has its own features and may be performed depending on the patient’s specific needs and goals. The treatment approach is determined by the doctor based on the clinical situation, patient history, and the objectives of dental treatment.

Soft Tissue Grafting: Service Price and Material Costs

Now that the question of “why” is clear, it’s time to answer “how much does gum grafting cost?”. Of course, it all depends on the individual case. The cost of treatment will vary depending on the scope of intervention and the complexity of the gingivoplasty method.

The price of soft tissue grafting may also depend on factors such as the surgeon’s experience and qualifications, the equipment used, and consumable materials. Treatment by highly experienced doctors who have invested in unique skills and expertise may cost more. The price also reflects the use of advanced equipment and materials, which influences the overall cost of gingivoplasty. We recommend scheduling a consultation with an implant surgeon.

The final price for soft tissue grafting is usually determined after a consultation with the doctor. During the consultation, the patient discusses expectations and goals, after which the doctor performs an examination, takes X-rays, and defines the required scope of work. Based on this, the doctor develops an individual treatment plan and provides a preliminary cost estimate. This approach makes it possible to account for each case’s specifics and ensures transparency in pricing.

At SHEDO Dental Clinic, every patient can be confident that their well-being is our top priority. We strive to create a comfortable and trusting environment so that every patient feels in safe hands. Our experience and dedication allow us to deliver long-lasting, beautiful, and functional results in soft tissue grafting while ensuring the safety and effectiveness of every procedure.

Trust us — and we will do everything possible to help you improve your health and quality of life.