6 Interesting Things You Should Know About Gum Grafting

Receding gums is one of the most common dental issues. When it happens, a patient’s roots are exposed and this affects their smile. Luckily, there is a solution to the problem known as gum grafting treatment. In this blog, we will discuss more about the treatment.

1. Gum Grafting Defined

Gum grafting means the use of replacement tissues to replace one’s worn out gums. The wearing out of the gums can be caused by poor oral health or gum disease. It is also worth noting that the condition is inheritable. You can count on us if you require gum grafting in Ajax, ON.

1. When to Consider Gum Grafting

There are various reasons why one may consider this treatment, and they include:

If you are not comfortable with your smile

There are various reasons why one may not be happy with her smile. One of the reasons is receding gums. If your roots are exposed and you are not happy with your smile, this treatment is perfect for you. After the procedure, your smile will be restored and you can smile comfortably even in public.

Root sensitivity

When your roots are exposed, you may start feeling pain and sensitivity Gum grafting treatment can cover the exposed roots and you can continue enjoying all your favourite foods like you used to do.

Decay

Receding gums makes your teeth even more susceptible to tooth decay. Getting this treatment will protect your roots and minimize the risk of cavities.

Minimize the risk of future gum recession

If your gums are just beginning to show signs of recession, the procedure may be performed to prevent future complications. If your family has a history of gum recession, avail yourself in a dental clinic and the dentist will help you determine the need for gum graft surgery.

1. Procedure

There various types of gum graft surgeries and the one perfect for you dictates the amount of time you will spend in a dentist’s office. The dentist will walk you through these options and help you choose the most suitable, depending on the extent of the recession. Here are the common types of gum graft surgeries:

Connective tissue grafts

The procedure involves making a flap on the roof of a patient’s mouth and getting tissue from the top layer. The dentist then stitches the tissues on the receding gums, before stitching the flap where he took the tissue.

Free gingival graft surgery

The dentist removes tissue directly from the roof of the patient’s mouth without needing to make a flap. He then stitches it on to the receding gums.

Lateral grafts

This procedure is only used if the patient has lots of gum near the exposed roots. The dentist gets tissue around the exposed tooth and stitches it on to the exposed tooth.

Alternatively, tissue can be sourced from another person or tissue banks. You can always go for those options if you don’t have enough tissue in your mouth.

1. Preparing for the Treatment

You don’t need to prepare in any special way for this procedure. However, it is important to come with a friend or family member to the appointment to drive you home after the treatment. This action is essential since it may be uncomfortable or unsafe to drive after taking the prescribed medications. The dentist will provide you with the aftercare instructions before you leave.

1. The Recovery Process

It does not take long to recover from the treatment and you can aid the recovery process by:

1. - Avoiding using tobacco products
  - Taking antibiotics
  - Using recommended mouthwashes
  - Eating soft foods and avoiding hard ones
  - Brushing and flossing with care. If possible, avoid disturbing the treatment site.

People experience pain and discomfort differently, depending on the type of surgery conducted. For example, a person who got a tissue from a tissue bank may experience less pain than the one who the tissue was sourced from her mouth.

Within ten to 14 days, your mouth should be all healed up. Be sure to take pain relievers to manage pain discomforts. If the pain is unbearable, contact your dentist and get to his office ASAP.

1. Complications

Complications are rare but a patient may experience these complications:

- Bleeding gums
- Infection
- Swollen gums
- Spaces between teeth
- Graft tissue not attaching properly

Restore Your Smile & Protect Your Oral Health—Book Your Gum Grafting Consultation Today!

Don’t let receding gums affect your confidence or oral health. At Dr. Patel Dentistry in Ajax, ON, we provide expert gum grafting solutions to restore your smile, reduce sensitivity, and prevent further damage. Schedule your appointment now and take the first step toward a healthier, brighter smile!