VISTA Gum Grafting
VISTA (Vertical Incision Subperiosteal Tunnel Access) gum grafting is a minimally invasive technique used to treat gum recession. Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue around the teeth pulls back, exposing the roots of the teeth. This can cause sensitivity and even lead to tooth loss if left untreated.
During VISTA gum grafting, a small incision is made in the gum tissue and a subperiosteal tunnel is created under the gum line. The tunnel is then filled with a tissue graft, which is typically taken from the roof of the patient’s mouth or from a tissue bank. The tissue is carefully placed over the exposed roots and secured in place with sutures.
VISTA gum grafting has several advantages over traditional gum grafting techniques, including less discomfort, faster healing time, and better cosmetic results. Because it is minimally invasive, there is less risk of complications and the procedure can often be completed in a single appointment. Overall, VISTA gum grafting is a safe and effective way to treat gum recession and restore a healthy, attractive smile.
Reasons for Gum Grafting
Gum grafting is very common for treating various periodontal issues. Some common treatments are:
Reducing sensitivity – Ice cream or even hot drinks can cause great, uncomfortable pain. Gum grafting surgery covers the exposed root, restores healthy gums, and reduces sensitivity.
Improving appearance – Gum recession coupled with root exposure can make teeth look longer than usual. Gum grafting can make teeth look “normal,” more symmetrical, and make your smile beautiful.
Improving gum health – When your gums are not healthy the gum tissue can become damaged very quickly. Gum grafting can help stop tissue and bone loss leaving you with a healthy, white smile.
How does the VISTA technique work?
Vestibular Incision Subperiosteal Tunnel Access or VISTA for short is a proven way to treat multiple gingival recessions by using the patient’s own tissue or natural gaft. Because multiple recessions can be present, the VISTA technique can help cure multiple recessions in one dental session to cut down on the discomfort from surgery even though anesthesia can be used. The VISTA technique can also be used in isolated cases where only one recession needs to be treated. The actual procedure aims to gain access to the site where the recession is occurring by making an incision above the gum (without cutting or stitching) where the gum recession is occurring, similar to the PinHole technique, followed by guiding the recessed gum to the correct position.
The VISTA technique for gum grafting can allow for both access as well as an opportunity to coronally reposition the gingival margins of all involved teeth. In this approach, recombinant human platelet-derived growth factor BB saturated onto a matrix of beta-tricalcium phosphate is introduced using VISTA over root dehiscences to enhance periodontal healing.
The VISTA technique is similar to the PinHole technique in that the procedure is quite similar. However, the VISTA technique costs much less than PinHole and does not require the purchase of one or more membranes.