Gum Grafting
Are your teeth sensitive to hot or cold? Do your teeth look longer than normal? This is caused by gum recession or the receding of the gumline. Over time tooth loss is a possible outcome resulting from the recession, and the associated conditions it promotes. Additionally, many people are unhappy with the way their mouth and smile looks when they have gum recession. When it has reached the point of it being easily noticeable by other people, this can cause mental health issues. Things like anxiety and self-confidence issues brought about by recession can have a real impact on people’s lives.
Before Surgery
After Surgery
Gum Disease
Periodontal disease is an infectious disease of the gums that can cause mild or severe recession of the tissue and the surrounding bone. Periodontal disease can destroy gum tissue very quickly. When untreated, a large amount of tissue is lost over a short period of time. Gum grafting will halt tissue and bone loss. It will also protect the exposed tooth from decay. In addition, grafting will make teeth shorter in appearance, symmetrical and more appealing. More so, the adjacent tissue will also be enhanced. There are people who are more susceptible to gum disease. Studies show that 30% of the population may be predisposed to gum disease, this can mean regardless of how well they take care of their teeth.
Gum Grafting Surgery
If the tooth is exposed, eating or drinking hot or cold foods makes the teeth overly sensitive. Gum graft procedures permanently conceal the overexposed root and reduce discomfort as well as restore the health of the gums.Gum grafting is performed as an outpatient procedure. You will be able to go home afterward however, if you had sedation anesthesia, you will need someone to drive you home, as well as drive for you the next 24 hours. There are two different types of gum grafting procedures.
- Connective Tissue Grafting: This procedure is used primarily for posterior teeth in which a thinner piece of tissue from the palata is needed.
- Free Tissue Grafting: This procedure is used primarily for anterior teeth in which a thicker piece of tissue from the palata is necessary.
Will I need to get another gum graft?
Gum grafts are efficient at repairing damage caused by gum recession and preventing further recession, but there is no guarantee that similar problems won’t reappear in the future. Luckily, if you are persistent with your dental check-ups and oral hygiene at home, you can detect problems before they get serious. Here are some other ways to prevent gum recession:
Brush twice daily
Floss once a day
Use mouthwash daily
Do not miss a dental appointment
Eat a healthy and balanced diet
Avoid smoking
Gum Graft Recovery
The type of gum graft you receive will determine how much pain you may experience after surgery. You may have pain for the first 3 days after surgery, this is common. The good news is that it heals fast and using ice packs to control inflammation helps with this discomfort. Your doctor may also prescribe you pain medicine or instruct you to take Ibuprofen to keep you comfortable after the procedure.
A soft food diet is necessary to ensure the site is not disrupted, such as smoothies, mashed potatoes and soup. Proper oral hygiene is also necessary to not disrupt the site. You will need to abstain from flossing or brushing the area too vigorously for a while to ensure proper healing.
Gum Recession Dentist
Our office of board certified periodontist went to school for an additional 3 years to master the art of gum grafting. Let our specialists take care of you today. Crafting the perfect smile is a breeze with our 3rd party financing, competitive cash prices and we are even in network with a majority of dental insurance PPO plans. Why not come receive your complimentary consultation and 3D scan today?!?
