Gum Grafts Help Maintain Good Oral Health

Are you experiencing gum recession or sensitivity? Do your teeth appear longer than they used to? If so, a gum graft may be the solution for you! Gum grafts are a surgical procedure that can help maintain good oral health by preventing further damage due to receding gums.

What Is a Gum Graft?

A gum graft is a surgical procedure that involves taking tissue from another part of the mouth, such as the roof of the mouth or nearby gum tissue, and attaching it to an area where the gums have receded. Gum recession can occur due to factors such as periodontal disease, genetics, or abrasive brushing habits.

The goal of a gum graft is to cover exposed tooth roots and prevent further damage by protecting them from bacteria and plaque buildup. Not only does this improve aesthetics by reducing the appearance of longer teeth, but it also helps maintain good oral health.

Why Might Someone Need a Gum Graft?

There are various reasons why someone might need a gum graft. One common reason is receding gums which occurs when the gum tissue pulls away from the teeth, exposing the roots of the teeth and leaving them vulnerable to decay and infection.

Gum recession can be caused by several factors, including genetics, poor oral hygiene, aggressive brushing, or periodontal disease. If left untreated, it may lead to tooth loss or other dental problems.

Another reason for needing a gum graft is to improve the appearance of one's smile. Uneven or receding gums can make teeth appear longer than they should be and give an unbalanced look to your smile. Additionally, patients who have undergone orthodontic treatment may require a gum graft if their braces or aligners have caused their gums to recede.

Whatever the reason for requiring a gum graft, it's important that patients seek prompt treatment from a qualified dentist or periodontist in order to maintain good oral health and prevent any further damage from occurring.

How Are Gum Grafts Performed?

During a gum graft surgery, your dentist will use either local anesthesia or sedation to ensure that you are comfortable and pain-free throughout the procedure. The first step is to identify the area of the mouth where tissue needs to be taken from. This is typically the roof of your mouth, but it could also come from a donor source. Once the tissue has been harvested, your dentist will prepare the recipient site by thoroughly cleaning and preparing it for transplant. The new tissue is then secured into place in small sections using sutures.

Afterward, you may experience some discomfort or swelling, which can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication and ice packs applied to your face. Over time, as new blood vessels form and integrate with existing tissues in your mouth, the grafted tissue should begin to take on a similar appearance and texture as natural gum tissue. With proper care and maintenance after surgery, you can expect long-term success from this procedure.

Recovery From Gum Graft Surgery

After undergoing gum graft surgery, it's important to properly care for the affected area in order to ensure a speedy and successful recovery. The first few days after surgery can be uncomfortable, with swelling and tenderness being common symptoms. To alleviate discomfort, your dentist may prescribe pain medication or recommend over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen. You should also avoid strenuous activity or exercise for at least 24-48 hours after the procedure.

It's crucial to maintain good oral hygiene during recovery by gently brushing around the surgical site and using an antiseptic mouthwash as directed by your dentist. Avoid touching the area with your fingers or tongue, and refrain from consuming crunchy or hard foods that could irritate the site.

Depending on the type of graft performed, you may need to follow specific post-operative instructions provided by your dentist. Follow-up appointments will be necessary so that your dentist can monitor healing progress and adjust treatment if needed.

By following these guidelines for proper recovery care, you'll help ensure the long-term success of your gum graft procedure and overall oral health.

To learn more, visit Stonewall Dental Associates at 8719 Stonewall Rd, Manassas, VA 20110, or call (703) 368-1000.