Gingival Grafting

Gum recession uncovers the teeth’ roots, thus considerably increasing the risk for tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues. A gum graft is the most effective treatment for a receding gum line, and this procedure entails adding gum tissue to the area of deficiency. The tissue can either be from the patient’s palate or donor tissue. 

Gum recession begins to take place when the gum tissue wears away, exposing more of the tooth at its root. This may lead to increased sensitivity, especially when eating or drinking hot or cold foods. As the gum recession is likely to happen slowly, many people do not realize it before it is too late. If gum recession is not treated, it could ultimately lead to tooth loss. Some people select to have a gum graft for cosmetic reasons, such as an improved smile, while for others, a gum graft becomes necessary to repair and protect the exposed tooth from further damage.

What is the procedure involved in Gingival grafting?

There are several different types of gum graft surgery, including connective tissue grafts, gingival grafts, and pedicle grafts available. The type of surgery to be undertaken depends on the extent and severity of damage a person suffers. After a detailed exam and X-rays, your dentist will determine which type best fits your individual needs. 

Before starting the gum graft, the periodontist will administer a local anesthetic to numb the area so as to make the patient calm and relaxed. The periodontal specialists will create a pinhole-sized opening in the gums and gently shift the receded tissues back to their original place through the entry point. This will effectively cover the exposed roots of the teeth. The moving of a patient’s gums to a better place will help straightaway protects them. To help in this process, thin pieces of collagen may be employed between the teeth and gums to secure the gumline in its new location while it heals. After the process is completed, the entry point is closed, and you will be asked to rinse out with an antibacterial mouthwash. In the first few days after the gum grafting, minor swelling may take place. However, it will resolve itself quickly.

What are the benefits of Gingival grafting?

Gum grafting procedures deliver a wide range of oral health benefits such as:

• Gum grafting procedures strengthen the gum tissue around a tooth, consolidating and stabilizing it.
• The procedure ensures the protection of the gumline from future recession.
• A gum graft helps covers the exposed teeth roots, thus reducing the risk of dental sensitivity.
• A gum graft can reinstate the appearance of your smile if the recession occurs around the visible front teeth.
• The success rate for gum grafting is remarkably high. In fact, with proper care, a graft can offer lifelong advantages.

 Call us at OC Advanced Periodontics or schedule an online appointment to know more about Gingival grafting