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The gums recede from the teeth in a common oral condition known as receding gums. Gum recession results in tooth sensitivity and pain and can cause tooth loss when treatment is neglected. Gum grafting stands as one of the most effective treatments for receding gums. Gum grafting serves to restore gum tissue while securing teeth in position and enhancing overall oral health status.
If you’re looking for gum grafting near you, knowing about the procedure and its advantages can help you make the right choice.
What Is Gum Grafting?
Gum grafting is a surgical procedure wherein tissue is taken from one area in the mouth and transplanted onto the areas where the gums have receded. This helps cover up the exposed tooth roots, reduce sensitivity, and prevent further damage.
A periodontist or an experienced dentist performs the procedure. Depending on the severity of gum recession, different types of gum grafting procedures can be utilized.
Types of Gum Grafts
There are several gum grafting options based on your specific dental needs. The main types are:
- Connective Tissue Graft – It is the most common. The tissue of the palate at the top of the mouth is used and covered over the roots of the uncovered teeth.
- Free Gingival Graft – It is similar to the connective tissue graft, but rather than using tissue underneath, a little bit is harvested directly from the palate.
- Pedicle Graft – This is a graft where tissue from the nearby gums is used rather than from some other area of the mouth.
Your dentist will choose the best grafting procedure for your case based on how much gum recession you have.
Why Do Gums Recede?
A gum recession can happen for a variety of reasons. Some of the most common are:
- Poor Oral Hygiene – Lack of brushing and flossing can lead to gum disease, which causes the gums to recede.
- Aggressive Brushing – Brushing too hard can wear away the gum tissue over time.
- Genetics – People are genetically predisposed to gum recession.
- Gum Disease – Gum disease is one of the main reasons for receding gums, which damages the soft tissue as well as bone structure.
- Smoking and Tobacco Use – They lead to thinning of gum tissue and enhance its susceptibility to receding.
Treating these causes in the early stages can prevent extensive gum recession and treatment.
How Long Does a Gum Graft Last?
Many people who are considering this procedure wonder, how long does a gum graft last? The good news is that, with proper care, a gum graft can last for a lifetime. The success of the procedure and the health of the gums depend on proper oral hygiene, regular dental visits, and breaking habits that can harm the gums.
Patients should follow their dentist’s instructions carefully after surgery to ensure the graft heals properly. Maintaining healthy gums through daily brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings will help the results last longer.
Is a Gum Graft Worth It?
If you’re wondering, is a gum graft worth it, the answer is yes for many patients dealing with gum recession. This procedure offers multiple benefits, such as:
- Protecting Tooth Roots – Gum grafting shields exposed roots, reducing sensitivity and pain.
- Stopping Further Recession – Strengthening the gums prevents further gum loss.
- Improving Aesthetics – Rebuilding the gum line creates a more healthy and harmonious smile.
- Improving Oral Health – Healthy strong gums keep teeth firm, preventing decay and other oral issues.
This treatment can significantly help those with gum recession and significantly improve oral health and overall health.
What to Expect While the Procedure Is Being Done
Gum grafting is an easy procedure and generally involves the following steps:
- Numbing the Area – Your dentist will numb the area to keep you from feeling any pain during the treatment.
- Tissue Collection – In case tissue collection is required, tissue will be taken from the roof of your mouth or from another source.
- Grafting the Tissue – The tissue is placed over the receded area and stitched in place carefully.
- Healing Process – The gums will take a few weeks to heal, and patients must adhere to post-care instructions to experience the best outcome.
A little pain after surgery is expected but can be managed using painkillers prescribed or purchased over the counter.
Recovery and Aftercare Tips
Following gum grafting surgery, proper aftercare will allow for a smooth recovery. Here are some tips to help with healing:
- Eat Soft Foods – Only consume soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and soup to avoid irritating the graft site.
- Avoid Brushing the Treated Area – Brush your mouth as advised by your dentist without disturbing the graft.
- Use a Special Mouthwash – Antibacterial mouthwash helps to prevent infection of the area while healing.
- Follow Medication Guidelines – Painkillers and antibiotics can be given to prevent pain and infection.
- Show Up for Follow-Up Visits – Regular visits will ensure that the graft heals as it should and that complications are avoided.
Other Gum Recession Treatments
While gum grafting is a very successful treatment, in some cases, alternative treatments may be recommended based on the amount of gum loss. These are:
- Pinhole Surgical Technique – A surgical-free method that relocates the gum tissue without grafting.
- Scaling and Root Planing – A deep cleaning process to remove plaque and bacteria below the gums.
- Gum Contouring – Reshaping the gums to create a more balanced gum line.
Your dentist will help determine the most suitable treatment for your specific condition.
Finding a Trusted Dentist
If you are having gum recession, the ideal action is to get professional treatment. Gum grafting can stop more of your teeth from being exposed, enhance the look of your smile, and make you feel more comfortable overall.
At Team Roncesvalles Dentistry, we have professional gum treatments in order to provide the best to our patients. If you are looking for a dentist near you, contact us today to discover more about gum grafting and how it can benefit you. Our team is here to help you achieve a healthy and confident smile!