A gum graft is a surgical procedure designed to replace lost gum tissue caused by gum recession. It involves taking healthy tissue from another part of your mouth and attaching it to the areas of recession to restore your gum line. In some cases, synthetic or donated tissue may be used.

Why is Gum Grafting Needed?

Your dentist may recommend gum grafting if you have gum recession, which is often a result of gum disease, genetic factors, or aggressive brushing. Receding gums expose your teeth roots, which can lead to sensitivity, cavities, and even tooth loss. Gum grafting helps restore the tissue, reduces the risk of further gum disease, and enhances the appearance of your smile.

The Procedure for Gum Graft Surgery

If your dentist believes gum graft surgery is necessary, you will be referred to a periodontist—a specialist in gum care. The procedure typically involves the following steps:

1. Consultation and Evaluation: Your periodontist will evaluate the extent of your gum recession, assess the overall health of your gums, and discuss your treatment options with you.
2. Preparation: Local anesthesia is applied to numb the area. Sedation options, such as nitrous oxide or oral sedation, may also be available for your comfort.
3. Harvesting the Graft: A small piece of tissue will be taken from the roof of your mouth (palate) or from a tissue bank, depending on your treatment plan.
4. Placing the Graft: The harvested tissue is then carefully placed over the exposed tooth roots. The area is stitched in place to promote healing.
5. Post-Operative Care: Your periodontist will provide you with instructions on how to care for the surgical site to reduce the risk of complications.

How Long Does Gum Graft Surgery Take?

The duration of the surgery depends on the number of areas being treated. A single graft typically takes around one hour, while multiple grafts may take longer.

Pain and Recovery After Gum Graft Surgery

While you won’t feel any pain during the procedure, you may experience mild discomfort, swelling, and bruising afterward. Your periodontist will prescribe pain medications and provide detailed aftercare instructions to minimize discomfort and promote healing.

Recovery Timeline

• First Few Days: Expect mild bleeding, swelling, and discomfort. Stick to soft, cool foods like yogurt, smoothies, and soups. Avoid brushing or flossing near the graft area until your periodontist advises otherwise.
• First Week: Swelling and bruising will subside, but be cautious about brushing near the graft. You may resume a more varied diet as your comfort level increases.
• Second Week: Swelling should significantly decrease, and your gum tissue should begin to heal. You may gradually resume normal eating habits, but continue to avoid hard, crunchy, or spicy foods until fully healed.

Benefits of Gum Grafting

Gum graft surgery offers numerous advantages:

• Prevents further gum disease: Protects against the progression of gum disease by restoring healthy gum tissue.
• Reduces sensitivity: Covers exposed tooth roots, reducing sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods.
• Improves appearance: Enhances the aesthetic look of your smile by restoring your natural gum line.
• Promotes overall oral health: Reduces the risk of cavities and tooth loss.

Risks and Complications of Gum Grafting

Though gum graft surgery is generally safe, some risks exist, including:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Graft failure (the graft may not integrate properly with the surrounding tissue)
• Rejection of the graft (though rare)

When to Call Oxford Family Dental

If you experience any of the following after your gum graft surgery, contact us immediately:

• Heavy bleeding that doesn’t subside
• Signs of infection, such as pus or severe pain
• Fever over 101°F (38.3°C)
• Significant discomfort or graft rejection symptoms, such as tissue discoloration

Is Gum Graft Surgery Worth It?

With a high success rate of over 90%, gum graft surgery is an effective solution for treating gum recession. It provides long-term benefits for your oral health by preventing further damage, reducing sensitivity, and enhancing the appearance of your smile. If left untreated, gum recession can lead to more severe oral health issues, such as tooth mobility and eventual tooth loss.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

At Oxford Family Dental, our team of experienced periodontists is dedicated to helping you achieve a healthier smile. If you’re experiencing gum recession or have concerns about your oral health, contact us to schedule a consultation. We’ll help determine if gum graft surgery is the right solution for you.