Most tooth loss results from bad gums. Too many times gum issues get ignored until it’s too late. The tooth is loose, and little can be done to save it. But all is not lost. It is possible, with modern dental techniques, to restore gums to a healthy state. If your gums are receding, your dentist may recommend a gum tissue graft. Gum recession exposes the roots of your teeth. Root exposure increases the likelihood of decay, as well as causing painful nerve sensitivity.
Gum Graft Surgery is suggested when gum tissue deteriorates, leaving tooth roots exposed to infection. During the process, the dentist removes a piece of tissue from the roof of your mouth or nearby healthy gum tissue. Transplanted tissue protects the deteriorated area.
- Gingival Graphing. A piece of tissue is taken from the roof of your mouth and transplanted over the affected area.
- Connective Tissue Graphing uses deep layer connective tissue from the roof of the mouth and transplants it where added gum tissue is needed.
- Pedicle Grafting creates a flap of tissue near the affected that gets placed over it to increase gum density.
- Pinhole Surgical Technique is a minimally invasive treatment. A pinhole made in the gum allows for the insertion of a device that stretches and peels back the gums. Collagen strips are inserted to hold the tissue in place against the tooth.
Recovering from Gum Graft Surgery
You will be able to go home following the procedure. If you are given a sedative, it is best to bring along a friend or someone who can drive you home. You will leave with specific after-care instructions. Follow them to the letter.
- Take all medications prescribed.
- Do not floss or brush the gum line until the area has healed.
- Rinse your mouth with an antimicrobial mouth rinse during the healing process to reduce the chances of infection.
- For a week or two following gum grafting eat soft, cool foods, such as eggs, pasta, Jell-O, yogurt, cottage cheese, well-cooked vegetables, and ice cream.
What About Pain
The degree of pain you have after surgery depends on the type of gum graft performed. If no tissue is removed from your palate, you should have little to no discomfort. If it is, you may experience a degree of discomfort for a few days following the procedure. Discomfort on the roof of your mouth is similar to ‘pizza burn.’ The good news is that affected areas tend to heal quickly if you follow your dentist’s instructions. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication or prescription pain medication can help keep you comfortable in the first days following surgery.
At Think Oral Implants and Periodontics in Paoli, PA gum grafting is our specialty. Call us now for a free consultation. Think Oral Implants and Periodontics, office located at 250 W. Lancaster Ave., Suite 215, Paoli, PA 19301 (610) 550-3333.
