Description of "ART" Alloderm Reverse Tunneling Technique

The Alloderm Reverse Tunneling (ART) technique represents a combination of key features contained within the previously described gingival grafting protocols. Several highlights of this proprietary technique are outlined as follows:

1)    Application of Platelet Rich Plasma (partitioned blood containing patient-derived growth factors) to facilitate wound healing, enhance graft/flap stabilization, and improve recovery times with minimal post-operative symptomology.

2)    Simplified surgical armamentarium consisting mainly of a Curved/Flexible Blade, Double End Titanium Nitride Composite Instrument or equivalent for tunneling (11mm long/1.8mm wide working blade), SUB-O gracey curette or equivalent for advancing the tunnel, UNC-15 periodontal probe to verify dissection and continuity of the pouch, and a Castro Viejo needle holder for suturing.

3)    Bi-directional tunneling of the gingival tissues to improve tunnel creation, tissue mobility, and graft insertion while minimizing nicks, tears, and perforations to the free gingival margins, gingival vent entry points in the alveolar mucosa, and overlying native tissues. The term “reverse” tunneling implies performing the flap dissection in the opposite direction, in the context that it is either being compared to sulcular or vestibular tunneling methods.

4)    Maximum access to the sub-gingival environment through multiple entry points which allows for optimal navigation through challenging biotypes, non-uniform bony architecture, and around anatomical limitations within the surgical region.

5)    Ease of insertion of the grafting material (Alloderm, Lifecell) via suture anchoring to the graft material, sulcular threading of the suture, and graft advancement by way of the suture leading the Alloderm through the tunneled preparation. A single papilla may be incised at the furthest point of the surgical region in order to accommodate the width component of the graft through the first gingival sulcus.

Center for Periodontics & Implant Dentistry

www.cpi-dent.com   (847) 818-9950

Gum Disease - Systemic Health Links

Center for Periodontics & Implant Dentistry

www.cpi-dent.com   (847) 818-9950

Dispelling Myths about Gum Disease - Perio.org

American Academy of Periodontology - The Truth Behind Healthy Teeth & Gums

In order to help distinguish between fact and fallacy regarding periodontal disease, the AAP has identified and addressed below some common misconceptions about oral health.

Bleeding gums are not that big of a deal.
Red, swollen and bleeding gums are an important sign of periodontal disease. If you notice bleeding while brushing or flossing, or when eating certain foods, you should schedule a visit with your dental professional to be evaluated for periodontal disease. Studies have shown that in addition to tooth loss, gum disease may contribute to the progression of other diseases, including heart disease and diabetes, so it is important that you begin treating periodontal disease as soon as possible.

You don’t need to floss every day.
Routine oral care, which includes brushing after every meal and before bedtime, and flossing at least once a day, is the best way to prevent gum disease. However, a recent survey estimates that only 13.5 percent of Americans floss each day. It is vital that you keep up with your daily oral care, and see a dental professional for a thorough check-up twice a year. If gum disease is diagnosed, a consultation with a periodontist, a dentist who specializes in treating periodontal disease, may be beneficial.

A visit to the periodontist will be scary.
Periodontists are gum disease experts. They have received three or more years of specialized training following dental school centered on the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of periodontal disease. Periodontists are equipped with the latest treatments and technologies, using innovative tools such as digital radiography, ultrasound technology, biomarker measurement and laser therapy to help make your visit more comfortable.

A tooth lost to gum disease is a tooth lost forever.
Gum disease is a major cause of tooth loss in adults. However, in addition to treating gum disease, periodontists are also experts in placing dental implants – a convenient and comfortable way to permanently replace missing teeth. A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is placed into the jaw to hold a replacement tooth. Studies have shown that dental implants have a 98 percent success rate, and with proper care, allow you to speak, eat and smile with confidence. In fact, a survey conducted by the American Academy of Periodontology found that over 70 percent of respondents reported being “pleased” or “extremely satisfied” with the results of their dental implants.

Poor oral hygiene is the only way to develop gum disease.
Forgoing good oral hygiene can certainly contribute to the progression of gum disease, but there are a variety of other factors that can also impact your risk. For instance, tobacco use has been shown to greatly increase your chance of developing gum disease. Stress, poor diet, and even genetics, can also play a role in the health of your gums.

Center for Periodontics & Implant Dentistry

www.cpi-dent.com   (847) 818-9950