Gum recession is not only painful, but can put your oral health at risk. It’s a condition in which your gums shrink and expose the roots of your teeth. However, with prompt dental intervention, this can be easily remedied with a gum grafting procedure.
If you have receded gums, continue on to learn what gum grafting surgery can do for you.
The Procedure
There are a total of three gum grafting surgeries; pedicle, free and connective tissue. While each procedure has the same goal, they’re all done differently. Free gum grafting is when your periodontist extracts a bit of tissue from the roof of your mouth and applies it to the receding gum line.
A connective tissue gum graft is fairly similar to a free gum graft. The only difference is that it takes a piece of connective tissue.
A pedicle gum graft doesn’t use tissue from other parts of your mouth. Instead, this procedure uses other gum tissue from around the ones that are receding. This procedure is usually the most common one done and sees the most success.
Regardless of the type of gum graft surgery performed, the procedure itself doesn’t take too long to complete. It’s typically done in no more than two hours. Once the initial procedure is complete, you will have to come back to have the stitches removed.
The Recovery Period
Recovering from a gum graft procedure isn’t as bad as it seems. In fact, you’ll be able to go home after it’s done. However, it may take up to two weeks for a complete recovery.
As you recover, it’s recommended you eat soft foods to minimize risk of damaging the graft. Foods such as yogurt, soft vegetables, milkshakes and soup are fine. Overly warm food or drink can cause the graft to burn, so be sure to avoid those while in recovery.
Furthermore, while it’s natural to be concerned about potential risks and complications. Thankfully, these are few and far between. However, if you experience any pain, irritation or oozing, contact your dentist right away.
Looking for Gum Grafts Near You?
Our dentist focuses on your comfort and satisfaction. By remaining up-to-date with the latest technological innovations in the space, you are guaranteed the best results. Patients are never left in the dark as their education is an important part of the process.
If you’re hoping to get a dental exam or think you require gum grafting, contact us at 803-650-3712 for an appointment in our Fort Mill SC office today.
