
What is Gum Grafting?
Have you been told you have receding gums? You’re not alone—many adults face this common issue. Often linked to periodontitis, receding gums occur when gum tissue gradually pulls back from the teeth, potentially exposing the tooth root and increasing the risk of tooth loss.
Gum grafting is a simple surgical procedure that restores lost gum tissue using tissue from other parts of your mouth. Though it may sound intimidating, most patients find it to be straightforward and virtually painless, providing effective protection for your oral health.
The Benefits of Gum Grafting
Gum grafting offers several important benefits for those with receding gums:
Enhanced Smile
Receding gums can make your teeth look longer and uneven, which might affect your smile. Gum grafting restores lost gum tissue, bringing back a balanced and natural appearance, so you can smile with confidence again.
Protects Your Teeth
Gum recession exposes the roots of your teeth, making them more vulnerable to decay. A gum graft acts like a shield, covering those roots and preventing plaque from reaching below the gum line, helping to keep your teeth strong and healthy.
Less Tooth Sensitivity
When your gums recede, your teeth can become sensitive to hot or cold foods and drinks. Gum grafting restores the gum tissue, reducing sensitivity and making eating and drinking much more comfortable.
The Gum Grafting Process
You might be surprised to learn that gum grafting is a quick and straightforward procedure with minimal prep. The main step is a consultation at our Breslau dental office, where your dentist will assess your gum recession and discuss the procedure. From there, it’s just a matter of scheduling your appointment.
Applying the Anesthetic
Before starting, your dentist will apply a local anesthetic to numb the treatment area, ensuring a pain-free experience throughout the procedure.
Removing the Tissue
With your mouth numbed, the dentist will take a small tissue sample, usually from the roof of your mouth, to use in the graft.
Grafting the Tissue
The harvested tissue is then carefully stitched over the exposed tooth root. As it heals, this graft will merge seamlessly with your existing gum tissue, restoring a natural look and promoting healthier gums.
Aftercare
While the procedure itself is painless, mild discomfort might occur as the anesthetic wears off. Your dentist may recommend pain medication to ease any discomfort. During the 1-to-2-week healing period, stick to soft, cold foods and avoid brushing or flossing the grafted area. A follow-up appointment will ensure that everything is healing properly.
The Cost of Gum Grafting in Breslau
The cost of a gum graft can vary based on factors like the type of graft, the number of teeth needing treatment, and your insurance coverage. Fortunately, many gum grafts are considered preventative care, so they’re often covered by insurance. Without coverage, you can expect to pay between $600 and $1,200 per tooth.
It’s important to note that accurate pricing can’t be provided online or over the phone. To get a precise estimate, schedule a consultation at our Breslau dental office or book an appointment online today.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Thanks to local anesthetics, the gum grafting procedure is generally painless. As the numbness fades, you might experience some sensitivity or discomfort, but pain medication can help manage this.
Yes, with proper care and good dental hygiene, a gum graft can last a lifetime. The grafted tissue integrates with your natural gums, creating a permanent bond.
Recovery typically takes 1 to 2 weeks. While complications are rare, if you notice signs of infection or if the graft becomes loose, contact your dentist right away for further care.
During the first 1 to 2 weeks of recovery, it’s best to stick to soft, cold foods like yogurt, smoothies, and mashed potatoes. Avoid hot, spicy, or crunchy foods that could irritate the grafted area until your dentist gives the all-clear.
The need for multiple sessions depends on the extent of gum recession and how many areas require treatment. In many cases, one procedure is sufficient, but your dentist will advise if more are needed during your consultation.
To support healing, avoid brushing or flossing the grafted area until your dentist advises otherwise. Use a saltwater rinse to keep the area clean, and follow any aftercare instructions provided to ensure a smooth recovery.
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