Gum Grafting Procedure From an Oral Surgeon

A gum grafting treatment may be recommended if gum recession is causing issues with your oral health or appearance. An oral surgeon with specific training in this sector conducts different gum grafting treatments regularly.

An overview of gum grafting

Gum grafting is a procedure that includes placing a tiny quantity of new tissue in an area where it has diminished or disappeared entirely, usually to prevent gum recession from worsening or to cover exposed root surfaces. Tissue for this treatment may originate from several places, but it is commonly removed from the palate (roof of the mouth). The patient is numbed during this process. Then, using suturing material thinner than human hair, the dentist gently sutures (sews) the tissue in place.

After the grafting surgery, the body's natural recuperation mechanism kicks in. New blood vessels develop in the graft, ensuring that it fuses with nearby tissues. A successful graft may help stop issues like tooth sensitivity and additional gum recession.

When is gum grafting recommended?

In some cases, patients can see or feel the issue themselves. Exposed dental roots often make the teeth seem abnormally "long." They are also usually darker than the natural white crowns. Gum recession is a problem that worsens with age. Also, it is not merely a cosmetic issue; it may also have significant consequences on dental health.

Gingival grafting as a treatment for gum recession

The gingival grafting surgery may be advised after a complete examination and evaluation of the teeth, gums, and general health. Tissue for this treatment may come from many places, including the region next to the recession, the hard palate, or another person. With the latter, the donated tissue has been medically treated to make it safe to use.

Grafting may be done in various ways. Suppose the recession occurs around an area that is not visible when smiling or speaking. In that case, extra gum tissue may be implanted there to prevent future recession without attempting to hide the tooth-root surface entirely. Since the tissue is isolated from its blood supply, this operation is called a free gingival transplant, and it takes roughly 45 minutes to complete. It has a high success rate. The method gets more complicated and takes longer if the goal is to cover root surfaces, but it is still quite effective.

Grafting treatments are usually performed under local anesthetic and are painless in most cases. Even if tissue has been taken from the palate, patients should have minimal pain following the procedure, since the donor region is normally coated with a calming liquid substance. Also, patients can take over-the-counter or prescription anti-inflammatory medications for relief from pain, which is usually temporary. A soft diet (along with an antibiotic) may be prescribed for the next week or two to enable the tissues properly heal.

In conclusion

It is essential to practice proper oral hygiene after a gum grafting procedure; this will help avoid gum issues in the future. Talk to the oral surgeon if you think that you might need this procedure.

Request an appointment here: https://corderoperiodontics.com or call Rafael E. Cordero, DDS PA at (561) 763-9221 for an appointment in our Palm Beach Gardens office.

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