Periodontic Care: What to Expect From Gum Graft Surgery

If you’ve noticed your gum tissue receding over the years, gum graft surgery might be in your future. This procedure is an outstanding way to restore proper gum coverage, an essential oral health component. 

When you rely on Brianna Davydov, DDS, Yev Davydov, DDS, Gregory Shank, DDS, and the rest of the Chroma Dental team for care, you’re in the best of hands. These dental specialists have the skills and experience to perform safe and effective oral surgery procedures. 

Why would I need gum graft surgery?

Gum grafting is the primary treatment option for receding gums. When your gum tissue begins to recede, it exposes your tooth roots, making it easier for decay to take hold. Receding gums can also be very uncomfortable, making your teeth more sensitive than usual. 

Then, there are the aesthetic implications to consider. Receding gums make your teeth appear “longer” than normal, whereas the “long in the tooth” term originated in referring to someone who is getting older. 

How dentists perform gum grafting

The first step in all gum grafting procedures is the administration of a local anesthetic, which ensures that you remain comfortable from start to finish as your dentist completes the procedure. 

The essential task of gum grafting involves moving tissue from one area to the areas of your teeth that get exposed due to receding gums. Here are the primary approaches:

Connective tissue grafts

Your dentist removes a small section of tissue from the roof of your mouth and then sutures to the section of your gums where additional coverage is needed. A small flap gets cut into your palate, and the grafting tissue gets removed from beneath that flap, which gets sutured closed once the grafting occurs.

Free gingival grafts

Similar to a connective tissue graft, this approach also uses tissue from the roof of your mouth, but without creating a flap - it’s taken directly from the palate. This option gets utilized if you need a substantial volume of tissue grafting.

Pedicle grafts

Pedicle grafts are a good fit if you have a solid volume of healthy gum tissue above the exposed tooth root. Your dentist cuts a small flap in the gums, pulls that tissue down to cover the tooth root, and then sutures the stretched flap into place. 

Recovering from gum grafting is easier than you might think

The thought of oral surgery often prompts stress and anxiety, especially when it comes to envisioning the recovery process. It might be helpful to know that the recovery from gum grafting is usually quick.

Depending on the type of grafting performed and your overall health, you can expect a few days of bleeding, bruising, and discomfort. Your dentist prescribes medication to reduce pain, but most people do not need to take this medication for long, and some people can get by with only over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications. 

You keep your mouth clean by using a special mouthwash. It’s critical to slow down for a few days after your oral surgery to give your body time to adjust. Choose soft foods that are not too hot, and drink plenty of water. 

You’ve heard it before, but your gum tissue heals faster than virtually any other tissue in your body. It won’t take long before your gums fully heal, and you can resume all normal activities. 

If you have additional questions or concerns about gum grafting surgery, contact the Chroma Dental team in the Midtown East community of New York City, New York, to book a consultation. You can schedule online any time or call during business hours to speak with a friendly administrative staff member.