What Happens in a Gum Graft Procedure from a Periodontist

Gum Graft Summit, NJ

You may have many questions on your mind if your periodontist tells you that you require a gum graft. Read on to learn more about this procedure. Learning about gum grafting, the process, and the recuperation period is a great step toward easing these concerns.

An overview of gum graft procedures

Gum grafting is a periodontist-performed dental treatment. It is the standard treatment for gum recession to avoid exposing the root surface of the teeth, which can lead to decay and discomfort. Gum grafts can reverse these negative consequences of the condition and restore gum health to preserve the protective barrier surrounding the teeth.

A gum graft entails taking a portion of tissue from the roof of the mouth or nearby healthy gum tissue. This portion is then grafted to the receding gum tissue. In essence, it is a two-part treatment that involves using healthy tissue to fix problems and safeguard the smile from potential complications.

Gum grafting can be done in various ways, each addressing a different periodontal issue. The degree of gum recession, the amount to which the cheek can pull on the surgical site during everyday activities, and whether the gums have receded in between the teeth or only on the front surface all influence which type of gum transplant is advised.

Gum graft procedures all entail taking donor tissue from another region of the mouth and connecting it to the receding gums. The periodontist will go through each of these gum grafting procedures with the patient and recommend the ideal option based on their unique situation and oral health history.

The gum grafting process

One of the interesting things about a gum transplant is how little preparation is required. It simply entails meeting with a periodontist to determine the severity of the recession problem and the most suitable gum grafting procedure.

There are no food restrictions or drugs to take before the operation; patients will only need to arrange for a ride to and from the dental office, as the combination of anesthetic, post-op medication, and minor pain can make being alone or driving unsafe.

A local anesthetic will be given to numb the region. In certain situations, general anesthesia may be used instead, especially if the patient is nervous and can relax more easily if asleep.

Since the periodontist has previously selected the donor tissue for harvesting and plotted out the grafting location, the gum grafting process itself is quick. Patients will be instructed to rinse their mouths with an antimicrobial mouthwash after the sutures are in place and the graft has been secured. The periodontist may also urge them to wait for an hour or two after the graft to check that everything went well.

The bottom line

During the initial consultation, the periodontist will guide the patient through the gum graft process. Make an appointment right away if you have observed the warning symptoms of gum recession. If left untreated, gum recession will worsen over time.

Request an appointment here: https://www.summitperioimplants.com or call Summit Periodontics & Dental Implants at (908) 219-6664 for an appointment in our Summit office.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.

Related Posts

Expert Periodontist Services For Healthy Gums And Beautiful Smiles

People who are seeking healthy gums but are dealing with challenges with gingivitis can see an expert periodontist, a dental professional who has studied the structures that support the teeth. These include the gums, the jawbone itself, and the ligaments that help hold the teeth in place.Periodontists are trained dentists who focus their attention on…

When To Visit A Periodontist For Gum Recession

Concerned about gum recession? Read on to learn more. If your smile looks different in the mirror recently, you might want to see a periodontist. You may notice your tooth roots are showing more, your teeth seem longer, or your gums are receding. Perhaps your gums are becoming more tender and your teeth are more…

Are All-on-4 Dental Implants Right For You? Factors To Consider

A missing tooth can be a big hindrance when you want to smile confidently, and many patients do not realize that All-on-4 dental implants might be an alternative to a smile full of gaps. When a person is missing a single tooth, a replacement can seem simple; however, those who have lost multiple teeth or…

Understanding Bone Grafting: How It Restores Jawbone Health And Strength

The jawbone is the part of the face that holds many essential elements together, such as the teeth, ligaments, and muscles; however, bone grafting may sometimes be necessary if the jawbone is too weak to perform these tasks. A person’s jawbone can deteriorate over time, whether due to age, genetics, poor oral health, cancer, or…