Categories: Gum Grafting

What Happens in a Gum Graft Procedure from a Periodontist

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.torreyhillsperio.com or call Torrey Hills Periodontal Group at (858) 925-1188 for an appointment in our San Diego office.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Gum Graft in San Diego, CA.

Recent Posts

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…

The Impact Of Periodontal Disease On Your Oral Health: What You Need To Know

Periodontal disease is a result of severe bacterial infection in the gum tissue. It causes many problems in the mouth. Knowing the impact of gum infection on your oral health can motivate you to set an appointment with your dentist right away. Here are the details on how periodontal disease impacts your oral health.Research shows…

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…

Assessing Eligibility For Dental Implants From A Periodontist's Perspective

Periodontists work closely with the supportive structures of the mouth, such as the gums, so it likely comes as no surprise that dental implants are among the most common treatments that they can provide. Dental implants can be an exciting possibility for those seeking long-term tooth replacement options that stimulate their gums just like natural…

Torrey Hills Periodontal Group

Share
Published by
Torrey Hills Periodontal Group

Recent Posts

When To Visit a Periodontist for Gum Recession

Gums that are infected and receding may be sensitive, inflamed, or red.

1 week ago

The Impact of Periodontal Disease on Your Oral Health: What You Need to Know

Working with your dentist can catch this disease early and prevent complications later in life.

1 month ago

Understanding Bone Grafting: How It Restores Jawbone Health and Strength

To perform a bone graft, the dentist will collect bone tissue from somewhere else in…

2 months ago

Assessing Eligibility for Dental Implants From a Periodontist’s Perspective

Dental implants can effectively replace missing teeth, but not everyone is a good candidate for…

3 months ago

Are All-on-4 Dental Implants Right for You? Factors to Consider

Recovery after All-on-4 depends on the treatments necessary to complete the process.

5 months ago

Treatment Options from a Periodontist for a Gummy Smile

A periodontist can help correct your gummy smile by performing some effective procedures. Seeing your…

5 months ago