Gum Grafting - General Dentistry | Smile Dental Implant Center

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Gum Grafting

Look good, feel good, lasts a long time!

Learn more about our gum grafting services and how they can benefit you.

Gum grafting is needed for those who have active or chronic periodontal disease that has caused their gums to recede.

This can happen to people with a history of forcefully brushing, heavy biting forces like grinding and clenching and low oral hygiene. When the gums recede, the tooth’s root is exposed, which increases the risk of tooth root decay, inflammation, bone loss, and sensitivity.

A gum graft (also known as a gingival graft or periodontal plastic surgery), is a collective name for surgical periodontal procedures that aim to cover an exposed tooth root surface with grafted oral tissue.

The gum grafting procedure is usually performed under local anesthetic. The exact procedure will depend much on whether tissue is coming from the patient’s palate or a tissue bank.

Initially, small incisions will be made at the recipient site to create a small pocket to accommodate the graft. Then a split thickness incision is made and the connective tissue graft is inserted into the space between the two sections of tissue. The graft is usually slightly larger than the recession area, so some excess will be apparent.

Sutures are often placed to further stabilize the graft and to prevent any shifting from the designated site. Surgical material is used to protect the surgical area during the first week of healing. Uniformity and healing of the gums will be achieved in approximately six weeks.

Sometimes, a patient's teeth may be covered with too much gum tissue. This can give the impression of the teeth being too short, even thought they are the proper length. This is often referred to as a 'gummy smile'.

We can correct this by performing gum grafting. With this procedure, excess gum and bone tissue is reshaped to expose more of the natural tooth. This can be done to more than one tooth, to even your gum line, and to create a beautiful looking smile.

Whether you’re seeking gum grafting to improve your oral health or enhance your smile, contact us to find out which procedures may be right for you!

What are the consequences of gum recession?
Gum recession is the process in which the margin of the gum tissue that protects the teeth wears away or pulls back exposing more of the tooth root. When gum recession occurs, pockets or gaps form between the teeth and gum line, therefore, making it easy for disease causing bacteria to build up and destroy teeth. If left untreated, the supporting tissue and bone structures of the teeth can be severely damaged and may ultimately result in tooth loss and even severe health consequences.
Is gum grafting painful?
Your dentist will first administer local anesthesia to numb the area and ensures your safety during the gum graft procedure. The tissue will heal up fast, a bit discomfort is totally normal.
Do I need a gum graft?
It is essential to maintain good gum health because they protect the teeth, roots, and bones that help teeth function and are susceptible to infection if exposed. If the gums are receding and in critical condition, gum grafts are needed.
Is a gum graft permanent?
If Gum recession causes are diagnosed properly by a skilled practitioner and treated, healthy gum maybe preserved for a long time with grafting.
When should you get gum grafts?
Gums are critical in protecting the roots and bones of your teeth, preventing infection and injury. If your gums have receded to the point that your roots are exposed, with or without sensitivity, you may need a gum graft.
How much does a gum graft cost for one tooth?
Gum grafts costs are depending on several factors, including which dentist you visit and your operation’s extent. This demonstrates that the sooner it is handled, the better to minimize additional costs.
What if I don't like the appearance of my gums?
If you are unhappy with your gums’ appearance, you may want to consider gum grafting as a cosmetic treatment. Gum grafting will improve the quality of your smile by bringing the gums into line with your teeth.
Is pain after gum graft normal?
It's completely normal to have some discomfort or pain as you recover from a gum graft. This will typically begin to ease more as each day passes.
Can you brush your teeth after gum surgery?
You may resume brushing and flossing all teeth except the surgical area 24 hours after surgery. Avoid brushing the surgical area until your stitches are removed or have dissolved depending on the type of stitches placed for your procedure.
Is gum grafting worth it?
Gum grafting is a highly safe and effective procedure; it has been tested and proven successful in treating countless cases of receding and thinning gums due to aggressive brushing and gum disease.

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