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Are you preparing for a gum tissue graft procedure or considering one with your doctor? In this article, we answer all of the most common questions about the procedure, preparation, and recovery. The good news is that gum tissue grafting is a relatively simple and common procedure. Educating yourself about gum grafts is the first step to having a successful procedure and recovery.
What is gum grafting?
Gum tissue grafts are performed if your gums are receding. Gum recession exposes the roots of your teeth. This usually happens slowly so many people often don’t realize this happening until their doctor recommends the procedure. Gum recession can be an issue because it makes your teeth more prone to decay, abrasion, and sensitivity. If left untreated, gum recession can also lead to tooth loss. Some people choose to have gum tissue grafting done for cosmetic reasons, and for some it is necessary to repair or prevent damage.
There are three different types of gum grafts. They include free gingival graft, connective tissue graft, and pedicle (lateral) graft. Your periodontist will consult you on the best option for your case.
What happens during gum grafting?
Periodontists are gum specialists and they often perform this simple surgery. In the procedure, your periodontist will remove a piece of tissue from health gum tissue on the roof of your mouth or in another location. Next, they attach it to the location where your gums have receded. Your periodontist will use local anesthesia for this procedure. It is a relatively quick procedure and you can usually leave the office shortly after it is performed.
How do I prepare for gum grafting?
There is very limited preparation for this procedure. You will only need to arrange transportation to and from your appointment. You will be given medication for any pain and discomfort so having a friend or family member drive you to your appointment is wise. Reading educational blogs such as this one and asking your periodontist any clarifying questions is also a great way to prepare.
What is the recovery from my gum tissue grafting procedure?
Your periodontist may recommend that you stay at the office for an hour or so after the procedure, but patients can generally return home shortly after and return to work the next day.
Here are a few tips to follow after your procedure:
- Try to avoid hard and hot foods to prevent irritation. Eat soft and cold food for the next week or so to ensure a successful recovery.
- Use an antimicrobial mouthwash for a few weeks to prevent infection or any issue with the graft.
- Avoid strenuous activities shortly after the procedure.
- Use over the counter (OTC) pain medications to provide pain relief after the procedure.
- Your periodontist will likely schedule a follow up appointment a week or so after the procedure so they can ensure that you are healing properly.
What are the risks involved with a gum tissue graft?
There are very minimal risks involved with this procedure. You can watch for these signs of infection or concern after your procedure.
Call you doctor if you experience any of these symptoms:
- Bleeding that continues for over 20 minutes, after applying pressure
- Unexpected pain, swelling, or bruising
- Fever and pus at the procedure site
What is the cost of a gum graft?
The cost of a gum graft varies. Prices can range from hundreds of dollars to thousands of dollars. Depending on your insurance, you may end up paying nothing or a small amount for the procedure. Once you find the right periodontist for you, you can inquire about their prices and see what is best for you.
At Simi Valley Periodontics, Dr. Natasha Yashar is a Board certified Periodontist who is highly experienced in gum grafts. You can trust you are receiving the best in class treatment when you visit Dr. Yashar. Between her extensive training and accolades, and her commitment to continuing her education and continuously improving office technology, there is no one more certified to treat you than Dr. Yashar. Request a consultation today to see how we can help you at Simi Valley Periodontics.