Gum Grafts
Restore Your Smile by Reversing Gum Recession
Gum recession is a common problem. It can happen naturally with age, but it can also be the result of oral health issues, such as gum disease or chronic teeth grinding. As the gums start to pull away, your teeth may appear unusually long, and they could be extra-sensitive as the receding gums expose their sensitive roots. Lost gum tissue will not regrow on its own. Fortunately, our team can help with a restorative service known as gum grafting.
What Is Gum Grafting?
Gum grafting is a minor surgical procedure during which we cover the exposed roots of teeth and strive to restore a healthy, aesthetically pleasing gumline.
Here is how the procedure typically works:
- We will numb your mouth to make sure you are comfortable. If you are particularly nervous or sensitive, we may also administer sedation.
- We will harvest tissue from the roof of your mouth. Taking a graft from your own body reduces the risk of complications and rejection. In some cases, though, tissue from a donor can be used.
- We carefully attach the harvested tissue to your gums in places where they have receded.
- A few weeks after your surgery, you may have another appointment, where we will remove any sutures and check to see how well you are healing.
Benefits of Gum Grafts
- Gum grafting can protect the roots of your teeth, reducing sensitivity to hot and cold foods and beverages.
- This procedure helps restore a natural and attractive gumline, thereby enhancing the aesthetic appearance of your smile.
- By covering exposed roots, gum grafting can lower the risk of tooth decay and prevent further dental complications.
- Gum grafting can contribute to improved oral hygiene by making it easier to clean your teeth effectively.
- The procedure strengthens the support structure around your teeth, which may help prevent tooth loss.
- This treatment often requires only minor surgery and a relatively short recovery period compared to more invasive procedures.
Recovering from Gum Graft Surgery
Swelling and discomfort after a gum graft usually start to fade within 2 – 3 weeks, while full recovery might take 6 – 8 weeks. Our team will communicate with you as you heal, and you should feel free to reach out to us if any questions or concerns arise.
You can facilitate a smooth recovery process by applying these tips:
- Be very careful during your oral hygiene routine. You may be able to start brushing after 24 hours, but you should exercise great caution and be gentle.
- Eat soft, cool foods such as yogurt, eggs, or smoothies for the first week.
- Do not eat spicy, crunchy, or hard foods that may irritate the surgical site.
- Use a prescribed mouth rinse or warm salt water to gently clean your mouth and soothe inflammation.
- Refrain from smoking or using straws, since suction can disturb healing tissues (and smoking can interfere with healing).
- Limit strenuous activities and get plenty of rest to promote recovery.