Are your gums thinning or do you feel like your teeth are becoming longer? That could be due to gum recession. To add volume to your gums, your dentist may recommend gum grafts.
Gum grafting is a dental procedure that seeks to restore the health and appearance of your gums. It’s a relatively common treatment used to treat gum recession, which can occur due to gum disease, genetics, or other factors.
Gum recession can have damaging effects, such as sensitivity, tooth decay, and even tooth loss, if left untreated. Let’s explore further what gum grafting is, how it’s done, and the benefits of this procedure.
Understanding gum grafting
Gum grafting is a surgical procedure that involves taking tissue from one part of your mouth, usually the roof of your mouth, and transplanting it to the gum tissue that needs additional coverage.
The procedure can be done in one of three ways: connective tissue grafts, free gingival grafts, or pedicle grafts. The type of graft used will depend on the location and extent of the gum recession.
The connective tissue grafts involve getting skin from a flap of skin on the roof of the mouth and tissue from under the flap. Free gingival grafts, meanwhile, use tissue directly from the roof of the mouth.
And pedicle grafts take tissue near the treatment area. Instead of the tissue being taken away, only one side of it is cut and the other stays attached.
The benefits of gum grafting
Gum grafting offers several benefits for patients, including reducing sensitivity, preventing further gum recession, improving the look of your smile, and protecting the tooth roots from decay.
Additionally, gum grafting can prevent tooth loss and improve overall oral health. By covering the exposed tooth roots with healthy gum tissue, you can reduce the risk of decay and infection.
Who needs gum grafting?
Patients who have experienced gum recession, which can be caused by gum disease, aggressive brushing, or genetics, may benefit from gum grafting.
Those with receding gums after orthodontic treatment or due to ill-fitting dentures may also benefit from this procedure. Your dentist can evaluate your oral health and determine whether gum grafting is the right treatment for you.
What to expect during and after gum grafting
Gum grafting is a surgical procedure that typically takes 1-2 hours, depending on the extent of the graft. You’re given local anesthesia to numb the affected area, and in some cases, sedation may also be used.
After the procedure, patients may experience some discomfort, swelling, or bleeding, but these symptoms should subside in a few days. You’ll need to follow special care instructions for a few weeks following the procedure to ensure proper healing.
Gum grafting vs. other treatments
While gum grafting is a common treatment for gum recession, there are other options available, such as gum contouring or dental implants.
Your dentist can recommend the right treatment for your needs based on your oral health and overall goals. It’s important to seek regular dental care to prevent gum recession and other oral health issues.
Learn more about getting gum grafts, see a dentist in Chilliwack, British Columbia
Gum grafts are a valuable treatment that can improve the health and appearance of your gums. While it may seem daunting, it’s a routine procedure that offers numerous benefits for those experiencing gum recession.
By understanding what gum grafting is and how it’s done, you can make informed decisions about your oral health and seek the right treatment for your needs.
If you’re dealing with receding or thinning gums, be sure to speak with your dentist about gum grafting and other treatment options. If you need a consultation with a dentist in Chilliwack, BC, get in touch with us at Vita Dental Wellness.
Our dental office is open during the week and we have evening hours, so you no longer need to take the day off for your appointment. If you require emergency dental care services, please let us know, and we’ll do our best to accommodate you immediately.