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Receding Gums

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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.


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Dental surgery is often necessary for oral health or for improving aesthetics. Most people, however, are concerned with visiting their dentist for such procedures. Their concerns mostly have to do with the prospect of feeling pain or enduring scarring from dental surgery.

Luckily, you don’t have to worry about either. Our dentist in Fort Mill, SC will offer you the highest level of treatment and care for your needs. Knowledge is the best way of overcoming your fears and our dentist will be happy to advise you on how safe your procedure will be.

What Is Dental Surgery?

Dental surgery encompasses a wide range of procedures for a patient’s teeth and gums. These procedures include tooth extraction, root canals and implants. You can have dental surgery to correct an issue that burdens your oral health or for improving your appearance.

Should You Expect Scarring From Dental Surgery?

When deciding on a specialist to perform your dental surgery, you should find an experienced periodontist. In the case of a tooth extraction, there should be minimal scarring if any at all. If scars do occur, they tend to be near the gums where they will be hidden from sight and inconsequential to your daily life. It’s important to note that your post-operative care will play a big role in eliminating the possibility of scars.

Best Ways to Heal From Dental Surgery


While there may be some temporary bleeding and swelling, your dentist will advise you on the best course of action to take. After your dental surgery, you’ll want to avoid smoking. Your dentist will also suggest rinsing with a saline solution and following a diet that will allow your gums to heal.

Other post-surgery tips include applying an ice pack, abstaining from strenuous activity and avoiding the use of straws. Sucking on a straw can cause blood clots to loosen, thus further delaying the healing process.

Getting Dental Surgery in Fort Mill

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 think you need a dental exam, or would like to consult with a specialist on a dental procedure, call our dental office in Fort Mill, SC today. Our staff members are helpful and will be happy to assist you.

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No one looks forward to oral surgery, and even when pain is present, many people still avoid the dentist. However, when it comes to gum grafting, the benefits far outweigh any negatives you might worry about. Whether you’re dealing with gum disease or tooth sensitivity from receding gums, understanding what to expect can ease your concerns.

Read on to learn more about gum grafting and the recovery period associated with it.

What is Gum Graft Surgery?

Gum graft surgery is performed for several dental issues, including:

  • Periodontal Disease: To stop gingival recession and protect teeth.
  • Tooth Sensitivity: To cover exposed roots and reduce sensitivity.
  • Aesthetic Concerns: To improve the appearance of your gum line.

Before undergoing gum graft surgery, a comprehensive oral exam is necessary to assess the extent of gum recession and overall oral health. In some cases, other dental issues may need addressing before the procedure

What Causes Gum Recession?

Gum recession can result from multiple factors, including:

  • Periodontal Disease: The most common cause.
  • Aging: Natural wear and tear over time.
  • Poor Oral Hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing habits.
  • Brushing Technique: Using a hard-bristled toothbrush or brushing too aggressively.
  • Medical Conditions: Conditions that affect gum health.

Switching to a soft-bristle toothbrush and brushing gently at least twice a day can help prevent further gum damage.

Recovery from Gum Graft Surgery

As with any oral surgery, some bleeding and swelling are expected post-procedure. Here’s a typical recovery timeline for gum graft surgery:

  • First 3 Days: Swelling usually peaks by the third day.
  • Up to 10 Days: Swelling typically resolves completely by the tenth day, although individual recovery times can vary.

To minimize swelling and ensure a smooth recovery, follow these tips:

  • Ice Packs: Alternate applying ice for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off.
  • Diet: Avoid foods that can irritate the treated area.
  • Medication: Over-the-counter anti-inflammatories can help reduce swelling and tenderness.
  • Post-Op Care: Follow your dentist’s postoperative instructions carefully.

Our Fort Mill dentist provides detailed post-operative care instructions to expedite healing and minimize recovery time.

How Can I Schedule an Appointment?

Gum graft surgery can be intimidating, but it plays a crucial role in preventing bone loss and further gum recession. If you need a dental exam or want to learn more about gum grafting, call our dental office in Fort Mill, SC, today. Our dedicated staff members are happy to answer any questions you may have and help you schedule an appointment.

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Total Perio Woman With Fear Of Dentist Min

Receding gums are an oral problem that can have very harmful consequences, not only aesthetically but, above all, from a health perspective.

In this post we tell you what they are, what causes them and what is the best solution to stop the progress of the gums in recession.

What are Receding Gums?

Receding Gums (also known as “retracted gums”) is an oral condition that leads to a progressive loss of dental support tissue and leads to expose the root of the tooth, the previous step even to a possible loss of the dental piece.
What Makes You A Good Candidate For Soft Tissue Grafting

Dr Patel is AMAZING. I went for a consult appointment and I had a great experience. The office is super clean and very modern. Lori was such a pleasure to work with. Highly reccomend this office!

Charlena G.
Total Implants 09949

Meet Dr. Samir Patel !

Our Fort Mill periodontist, Dr. Samir Patel, has extensive education & experience in the field of periodontics!
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What Are The Causes of Receding Gums?

The reasons are diverse. Some do not cause them on their own, but they can cause problems that, if left untreated, result in gum retraction. We list the most common:

  • Accumulation of bacterial plaque. As we have talked on other occasions, the accumulation of plaque can cause diseases such as gingivitis (inflammation of the gum around the tooth) and periodontitis, also commonly called “pyorrhea.”
  • A tooth brushing too aggressive or the use of brushes with excessive hardness, can lead to bleeding and I gradual loss of gingiva.
  • Traumatism. Occasionally, bumps in the mouth caused by accidents, or even the practice of some sports, can also cause gum retraction.

In addition, there are also risk factors. For example, diseases that affect the immune system (such as diabetes or AIDS), age, stress, tobacco, or genetics, increase the likelihood of suffering from gum retraction.

How Do You Prevent & Treat Receding Gums?

As we always say in this blog, the best way to prevent any oral disease is to maintain correct dental hygiene habits. But there are also solutions for more advanced cases. The first thing to do, before resorting to some type of surgical treatment, is to eliminate the cause that causes the retraction. For example, if our retraction is caused by too aggressive brushing, we must correct this habit to restore gum health. But on many occasions, the above is not enough and we must undergo surgical techniques that consist of soft tissue grafting in our gums to recover them, both from the point of view of health and aesthetics. As always, when you go to your dental clinic, the specialist will make a detailed analysis of your problem, will give you guidelines to take care of your gums and, if necessary, will choose the best surgical treatment for your case.

Looking for a Dentist Who Treats Receding Gums in Fort Mill?

Our periodontist Dr. Samir Patel is experienced in treating receding gums in Fort Mill, SC! If you have any additional questions about laser dentistry, periodontics, or would like to schedule with Dr. Patel, please don’t hesitate to contact our friendly staff today! We look forward to serving you.

Schedule an Appointment!

We look forward to treating you at our Fort Mill periodontal office!

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Friday: By Appointment Only

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(803) 650-3712

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2526 Highway 160 West Suite 104
Tega Cay, SC 29708

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