Gum tissue grafting is an innovative dental procedure that helps restore and strengthen your gum tissues, prevent tooth loss, and enhance your overall oral health. Before, however, consulting a dentist immediately for the same, here are a few things that you need to know about the procedure.
Gum tissue grafting is a dental procedure used to treat receding gums, a condition in which the gum tissue around the teeth pulls back, exposing the tooth or its root. This can lead to increased sensitivity, an increased risk of tooth decay, and aesthetic concerns. The grafting procedure involves taking healthy gum tissue from another part of the mouth (often the roof of the mouth) and attaching it to the area where the gums have receded.
What is Gum Tissue Grafting?
A gum tissue grafting or gum graft refers to a surgical procedure during which a periodontist Owatonna MN removes gum tissue from a healthy area of your mouth and attaches it to the gums that surround your teeth. The surgery aims to protect your teeth by covering exposed roots and improving the aesthetics of your smile.
In some cases, a gum graft may be done to prepare your mouth for an implant. The surgery may also be conducted to restore the natural shape of your gums so that you can successfully have dental implants.
There are different types of gum grafting procedures:
- Connective tissue graft: The most common type, where tissue from under the skin on the roof of the mouth is used.
- Free gingival graft: Tissue is taken directly from the roof of the mouth.
- Pedicle graft: Gum tissue is pulled from surrounding areas to cover exposed roots.
What are the Benefits of Gum Tissue Grafting?
If you are suffering from gum recession, you are the right candidate for the graft surgery. Since gum recession is a serious problem, it can also make you lose your tooth if left untreated. A graft surgery at this stage can help prevent further complications and tooth loss.
In addition, gum tissue grafting also helps to protect your teeth from further damage. When your gums recede, your teeth become more susceptible to damage. Surgery can help protect your teeth by covering the exposed tooth roots and preventing further damage.
What are the Risks and Complications of Gum Tissue Grafting?
Any surgical procedure comes with certain risks or complications, these include:
Infection:
One of the most common risks with gum grafting is infection. This can occur either at the donor site, recipient site, or both. Moreover, it can also delay healing and cause additional swelling and pain.
Bleeding:
Bleeding is also a common risk associated with gum tissue grafting. It may occur either during the procedure or during the healing process. If you experience severe bleeding, reach out to your periodontist at the earliest.
Severe Pain:
Since gum tissue grafting is a surgical procedure, little pain is to be expected. Most patients, however, only observe mild to moderate pain that is relieved with pain medications. If you experience persistent and severe pain, visit your periodontist for the same.
Swelling:
Swelling is also another side effect of gum grafting. You may observe swelling typically at peak for two to three days after the procedure. It may subside throughout 7 to 10 days. To ease the swelling, you can play ice packs or cold compress.
Donor Site Risks:
During gum tissue grafting, tissue is taken from another area of your mouth including the mouth roof. Due to the sensitivity at the donor site, you may observe pain, bleeding, or infection in the area.
Who Should Consider Gum Tissue Grafting?
If your gums are receding, you may be ideal for a gum grafting procedure. During this procedure, a dentist will extract tissue from another area of your mouth (mostly roof) and attach it to your gums. This will help in concealing any exposed tooth root and preventing further damage. In addition, the procedure can also help in improving the appearance of your smile and bring back your lost confidence.
To Sum It Up
Gum tissue grafting is an excellent procedure to restore your gum health. The procedure is relatively simple and can help in keeping your teeth healthy and secure, reduce sensitivity, and prevent further damage.
If you wish to consult a periodontist for the same, you can visit us at Periodontal Specialists or schedule an appointment with us here.
