Gum grafting surgery is an imperative aspect of dentistry designed to aid in restoring gum tissue that has receded due to numerous factors such as periodontal disease, improper brushing technique, or genetic predisposition.
If you have or are experiencing gum recession, knowing about the procedure, its benefits, and recovery can help you consider your teeth and gum health moving forward.
This blog will cover all the basics about gum grafting, including the different types of grafts, the procedure details, and what to do after the surgery.
What is Gum Grafting?
Gum grafting is a surgical procedure in which therapists will use tissues from another area of the mouth and replace them in a required area in the mouth where there is a lack of gum tissue.
Gum grafting surgery is frequently recommended for individuals with gum recession.
Compromising the enamel tissue around sensitive roots, which can lead to tooth sensitivity, tooth decay, and, if left untreated, can lead to tooth loss.
Why You May Want to Consider Gum Grafting.
- Gum grafting accomplishes a handful of things, including reducing sensitivity. Exposed roots lead to tooth sensitivity due to food or drinks being hot and/or cold.
- Reduced Risk of Tooth Decay: Gum recession can expose cavity-prone roots on a tooth, which, if untreated, will establish tooth decay.
- Improves the Look of Your Smile: Gum grafting can improve the look of your smile by replacing gum tissue if it has receded.
- Reduced Recession: The primary purpose of gum grafting is to replace the gum tissue covering each root, reducing the risk of further gum loss.
Gum Grafting Procedure
Here is the detailed step-by-step process of gum grafting:
- Having a clear idea of the operation in advance can remove some of the pressure. Here is a step-by-step guide:
- Anesthesia: Because of local anesthesia, patients feel no pain in the procedure areas earmarked.
- Tissue Retrieval: Depending on what kind of graft it is, tissue is taken from the palate or areas of adjacent gums.
- Securement of Grafted Tissue: The harvested tissue is carefully laid over the exposed root and sutured down.
- Postoperative Care: Dressing might be applied to act as a shield to protect the grafted area.
Recovery after Gum Grafting
Postoperative care is still essential for a successful recovery. Here is how to make it smoother and better:
- Diet And Liquids: For the first few days, stick to a soft-food diet. Don’t eat anything complicated, crunchy, or hot that could irritate the surgical area.
- Oral Hygiene: Gently brush your teeth with a padded-head toothbrush to maintain oral hygiene and avoid harm to the grafted area. Use the mouthwash prescribed by your doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does gum grafting surgery last?
It usually takes one to two hours, depending on the number of grafts needed and the complexity of the work.
What is recovery like post-gum grafting?
Most people can look forward to about two weeks of recovery conditions, during which swelling and irritation may occur. Full healing takes a few months, typically with the integration of the graft.
Are there any dangers associated with gum grafting?
Like any surgical procedure, gum grafting has certain dangers, including infection, bleeding, and failure of the graft.
However, these threats are relatively low when done by an experienced professional.
What should I do if I need an emergency dental consultation?
If you experience severe discomfort or complications after your procedure, contact our office immediately for an emergency dental appointment.
Davis dentistry, Murfreesboro, TN is a leading periodontist clinic in the Murfreesboro, Tennessee area.
Our periodontists are specially trained to identify and treat periodontal disease and its symptoms, such as bleeding gums, bad breath, and loose teeth.
We offer a variety of advanced periodontal procedures and technology such as LANAP Laser Treatment, dental implants, cosmetic periodontal surgery, gum grafting, All-on-4 implants, Teeth-in-a-Day, and bone grafting.
To schedule your appointment today at our emergency dental clinic, get in touch with us.
