Dental Factoid

As of 1999, there were 164,664 professionally active dentists (dentists using their dental degree in some fashion), and 152,151 active private practitioners in the U.S. For more information, see the Distribution of Dentists in the U.S. by region and state.

Grafts

Some abnormalities, as well as advanced gum disease that cannot be treated periodontically or non-surgically, may require application of soft tissue grafts. Such procedures can be used to cover an exposed root or correct uneven gum lines.

Soft tissue grafts are small pieces of tissue taken from other areas and surgically implanted in the affected area. This helps to stop bone loss, the recession of gums, and even reduce pain-causing root sensitivity.