What is gum grafting?

A gum graft is a type of dental surgery. It treats gum recession, a condition where your gums pull away from your teeth and expose the roots underneath. Exposed teeth roots increase your risk of tooth decay, sensitivity and bone loss around teeth. Gum grafting replaces the lost tissue around your teeth and improves your overall oral health.

Types of Gum Grafts

Synthetic Gum Grafts

Synthetic gum grafts offer a modern solution for treating gum recession and improving oral health. Made from biocompatible materials, these grafts eliminate the need for harvesting tissue from the patient’s palate, reducing discomfort and recovery time. They provide a durable and effective alternative to traditional grafting methods, promoting natural gum regeneration and enhancing the aesthetics of your smile.

Connective-Tissue Grafts

This is the most common type of graft used to treat gum recession. In this procedure, your periodontist will cut a small flap of skin on the roof of your mouth (your hard palate). Under this skin is the subepithelial connective tissue. A piece of subepithelial connective tissue is then removed and attached to your gum line. Once your periodontist removes the tissue from your palate, they will carefully reposition and secure the flap with stitches, although sutures may not be required in some cases.

Free Gingival Grafts

This procedure also uses tissue from the roof of your mouth. However, tissue is taken directly from the roof of the mouth instead of cutting a small flap to retrieve the underlying tissue. Generally, this procedure is common for those with naturally thin gums. This allows your periodontist to retrieve more tissue than in connective tissue grafts. For those who are seeking gum grafting for cosmetic reasons, this is one of the more common procedures.

Pedicle Grafts

This procedure does not take tissue from the roof of the mouth. Instead, your periodontist will graft tissue from the gum line itself. Generally, the tissue is from an area nearby the tooth receiving treatment. Only those with lots of surrounding gum tissue can get this type of procedure. It is generally for those with only one or two teeth with receding gum lines.

What should you expect during recovery?

You’ll be able to go home shortly after the procedure is done. Your periodontist may have you wait an hour or two if they want to observe you to make sure there aren’t any issues with the graft.

During the first week or two of recovery, try to eat soft, cold foods to make sure you don’t damage the graft. You shouldn’t eat hard or hot foods that can burn or irritate the graft.

Good foods for the recovery period include:

• Eggs, especially scrambled or soft-boiled
• Yogurt
• Vegetables that have been cooked until they’re soft
• Cottage cheese
• Ice cream
• Gelatin, such as Jell-O

Your periodontist will likely recommend that you use an antimicrobial mouthwash for a couple of weeks to prevent infections, plaque buildup on your teeth, or issues with the graft. You shouldn’t brush or floss in that area until your doctor says it’s safe to do so. Brushing or flossing before the area has healed can open the wound or cause an infection. If you’re dealing with any pain or discomfort, over-the-counter pain medications, such as naproxen (Aleve), may provide relief. Don’t exercise or perform any strenuous activities until your doctor says it’s fine to do so.

Why Choose Leading Edge for Your Gum Grafting?

At Leading Edge Periodontics & Dental Implants, our specialists have extensive experience performing gum grafting procedures. We utilize advanced techniques and state-of-the-art technology to ensure precision, comfort, and effective results. Our patient-centered approach ensures that your concerns are addressed, and your treatment plan is customized to meet your specific needs.

If you’re experiencing gum recession or are interested in improving your smile with a gum graft, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Let Leading Edge Periodontics & Dental Implants help you achieve healthier gums and a more confident smile.