Gum or tissue grafting is a specialized dental procedure aimed at treating gum recession, which exposes the roots of the teeth, making them more susceptible to decay, sensitivity, and eventual tooth loss. At Arcadia Perio, we understand the importance of your gum health and offer advanced solutions to ensure the longevity and aesthetics of your smile.
Why Gum Grafting is Necessary
Gum recession can be caused by a variety of factors including aggressive tooth brushing, periodontal disease, and genetics. When the gum recedes, it pulls away from the tooth, which can lead to severe dental issues if left untreated. Gum grafting not only improves the appearance of your smile but also protects the roots of your teeth from decay and helps reduce tooth sensitivity.
Types of Gum Grafts Offered at Arcadia Perio
At Arcadia Perio, we offer several types of gum grafts, each tailored to the specific needs of the patient:
- Connective Tissue Grafts: The most common type of graft for treating root exposure. A flap of skin is cut at the roof of your mouth (palate) and tissue from under the flap, known as subepithelial connective tissue, is removed and stitched to the gum tissue surrounding the exposed root.
- Free Gingival Grafts: Similar to connective tissue grafts, but instead of taking tissue under the flap, a small amount of tissue is taken directly from the roof of the mouth and then attached to the gum area.
- Pedicle Grafts: In this procedure, the graft is taken from the gum around or near the tooth needing treatment. This type of graft is preferred when there is plenty of gum tissue near the tooth.
The Gum Grafting Procedure
The procedure generally involves the following steps:
- Preparation: The treatment area is numbed using a local anesthetic to ensure comfort during the procedure.
- Grafting: Depending on the type of graft, tissue is taken either from the palate or from the gums around the tooth. The tissue is then carefully stitched to the area where the gum has receded.
- Recovery: Initial healing typically occurs within the first week or two after the procedure. Complete healing of the tissue can take one to two months.
Aftercare for Gum Grafting
Proper aftercare is essential to ensure the success of a gum graft. Recommendations include:
- Avoid flossing or brushing at the graft site until it has fully healed.
- Eating soft, cool foods to avoid irritation.
- Taking prescribed pain medication as needed and following all post-operative care instructions provided by our specialists.
Comprehensive Q&A on Gum/Tissue Grafting
Q1: Is gum grafting a painful procedure?
A1: While the thought of gum surgery might seem daunting, most patients experience minimal discomfort during the procedure thanks to local anesthesia. Post-procedure discomfort is typically manageable with over-the-counter or prescribed pain relief.
Q2: How long does the healing process take?
A2: The initial healing phase where you might experience discomfort lasts about one to two weeks. However, complete tissue integration and healing can take up to a month or two.
Q3: Are there any risks associated with gum grafting?
A3: As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks, but they are minimal. These can include infection, bleeding, and graft failure. However, these are rare and preventable with proper care and follow-up.
Q4: How can I prevent further gum recession?
A4: Good oral hygiene practices, using a soft-bristled toothbrush, regular dental check-ups, and avoiding aggressive brushing are essential. If you have bruxism (teeth grinding), consider getting a night guard to protect your teeth and gums.
Q5: Will my insurance cover gum grafting?
A5: Coverage can vary depending on your dental insurance plan. It is often considered a necessary procedure, not cosmetic, especially if the gum recession is severe. We recommend checking with your insurance provider to understand your coverage.
At Arcadia Perio, we are dedicated to providing the highest level of periodontal care. If you have more questions or need a consultation, please contact us today. Your health is our top priority, and we are here to ensure that your treatment is as comfortable and effective as possible.