Treatment FAQ

times where a gum graft would be necessary before getting restorative treatment

by Jayce Ondricka Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago

Getting treatment as soon as possible and when it’s in the earlier stages is the best way to prevent permanent damage and tooth loss. Gum graft surgery is recommended when the gums have receded enough to expose the roots of your teeth.

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How to take care of your teeth after gum grafting?

Serve at room temperature to avoid the tooth sensitivity after gum graft shock of cold or hot temperatures. After two days, you can add in soft foods, such as yogurt or cottage cheese. 4. Rinse Your Mouth for clean gum Tissue

Do I need a gum graft for gum recession?

If left untreated, gum recession could eventually lead to tooth loss. Some people choose to have a gum graft for cosmetic reasons, such as to have a better smile; while for others, a gum graft is necessary to protect the exposed tooth from damage and repair any damage already done. Different types of gum grafts are available.

How long does it take to recover from a gum graft?

Give yourself some time off post-surgery to allow your body to heal by refraining from exercise and other strenuous activities for the first several days after surgery. The gum graft recovery & healing will usually take weeks so its important to take the time slowly. 3. Stick to a Liquid Diet when considering gum graft recovery foods

When is an oral bone graft needed?

This surgical procedure is usually done when the jaw bone is too weak for the placement of a dental implant. A bone graft is a serious procedure no matter where it is on your body, and an oral bone graft is no exception.

Why do people get gum grafts?

What is gum graft?

What is gum graft surgery?

What is the procedure to remove gum tissue from the gum around the tooth?

How to remove tissue from the roof of the mouth?

How long does it take for a periodontist to heal?

What is the procedure to enlarge gums?

See more

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When are gum grafts necessary?

A gum graft may be necessary to protect your teeth from the damaging effects of gum recession, or you may choose to have one to improve the appearance of your smile. Gum recession is the process in which the tissue that surrounds the teeth pulls away from a tooth, exposing more of the tooth or the tooth's root.

Are gum grafts medically necessary?

Gum grafts are commonly needed by patients with gingival recession, or receding gums, to preserve their oral health. In cases of gingival recession, a gum graft may be needed to cover the exposed teeth roots and correct pockets between the teeth and the gums.

Who qualifies for a gum graft?

The right candidate for gum grafting The ideal candidate for this type of procedure is one who has had severe periodontal disease around the gums and the teeth. This is the type of patient who would benefit from the procedure. There are several symptoms of gum disease.

Is gum graft surgery worth it?

Gum grafting is a highly safe and effective procedure; it has been tested and proven successful in treating countless cases of receding and thinning gums due to aggressive brushing and gum disease. Still, complications and infections may occur, especially without proper post-op care.

Is grafting necessary?

A bone graft is usually necessary after a tooth extraction since the bone can start to melt away. This can cause your facial features to sag, so a bone graft can help provide needed structure and support.

Is there an alternative to gum grafting?

One of the more popular alternatives to having a traditional gum graft performed is a newer procedure called the Pinhole Surgical Technique. Much like orthoscopic/laparoscopic surgery, this minimally invasive procedure corrects gum recession by making a small hole in your gumline.

Who is not a candidate for gum graft?

The tooth or teeth to be covered by a gum graft have to be healthy, too. An infected tooth or teeth might not benefit from gum graft and can cause further infection if not treated. Teeth that are too loose may not serve as an adequate anchor for a gum graft.

Is a gum graft covered by insurance?

Gum grafting is generally covered by insurance plan; however, every patient's plan will have different levels of coverage and out of pocket expenses.

How much does a gum graft cost without insurance?

How much does gum graft surgery cost? The cost of gum graft surgery can run between $600 and $1200 per tooth. Donor tissue is more expensive than tissue harvested from the patient's own mouth and if gum contouring is required as well, the overall cost of gum graft surgery can be up to $3000 per tooth.

What is the success rate of gum grafting?

Recovery. The gum grafting procedure has a 90% success rate, therefore patients can feel confident the procedure will benefit them. Recovery from this procedure normally takes 4-6 weeks, during which patients will be asked not to brush or floss near the newly repaired area.

How long will a gum graft last?

No matter the type of oral procedure, proper care and maintenance are necessary to ensure results last as long as possible. With a gum graft, you can expect it to remain in place for a lifetime, but you will need to take care of your oral health on a daily basis.

How painful is gum graft surgery?

The actual gum grafting procedure is painless. This is because a local anesthetic is used to numb the affected area. A periodontist, who is a dental specialist in gum disease and the gums, typically performs this procedure. You may instead feel some movement or pressure as your periodontist performs the procedure.

Gum Tissue Graft Surgery: Procedure, Recovery, Complications, Cost - WebMD

WebMD explains why and how a gum graft is performed, what to expect, estimated recovery time, and more.

Gum graft surgery after care: how long is recovery time?

If gum recession is affecting your health or your appearance, a procedure called gum grafting may be recommended. Although it might sound scary, a variety of gum grafting procedures are routinely performed by periodontists.

Why do people get gum grafts?

Some people choose to have a gum graft for cosmetic reasons, such as to have a better smile; while for others, a gum graft is necessary to protect the exposed tooth from damage and repair any damage already done .

What is gum graft?

Takeaway. A gum graft is a type of dental surgery performed to correct the effects of gum recession. It is a quick and relatively simple surgery in which a periodontist removes healthy gum tissue from the roof of the mouth and uses it to build the gum back up where it has receded. Gum recession occurs when gum tissue wears away, ...

What is gum graft surgery?

Gum graft surgery is a procedure that helps to restore gums that have worn down, can help protect teeth, and improve the appearance of a person’s smile. There are different types of gum graft surgery available. All are relatively straightforward procedures with minimal risk of any complications.

What is the procedure to remove gum tissue from the gum around the tooth?

Pedicle (lateral) grafts. This is the preferred method for people who have lots of gum tissue growing near the exposed tooth. In this procedure the periodontist: grafts tissue from the gum around or near the tooth requiring treatment. only partially cuts away this tissue, keeping one edge attached.

How to remove tissue from the roof of the mouth?

removes tissue from the roof of the mouth by making a flap and taking tissue from underneath the top layer. stitches the tissue onto the existing gum tissue to cover the exposed tooth root. stitches the flap on the roof of the mouth from where they took the tissue.

How long does it take for a periodontist to heal?

If they remove the tissue from the roof of the mouth a person may feel pain for a few days. The healing process is often quick, taking 1 to 2 weeks for the mouth to heal fully but may take longer.

What is the procedure to enlarge gums?

Free gingival grafts. This is the preferred method for people with thin gums who require extra tissue to enlarge the gums. In this procedure the periodontist: removes tissue directly from the top layer of tissue on the roof of the mouth. stitches this tissue to the existing gum area.

Why is gum graft so successful?

This type of graft is usually the most successful because it doesn’t cut off blood flow in any part of your mouth.

How long does it take for gum grafts to heal?

You should be fully healed from a gum graft in one to two weeks. You’ll need to schedule a follow-up appointment with your periodontist a week or so after the procedure so that they can make sure you’re healing properly and the graft is successful. After about two weeks, you should be able to brush and floss again.

What type of graft is used to cover gum recession?

This is the most common type of graft. Pedicle graft: Your periodontist creates a flap of tissue from an area right next to your gum recession and uses the flap to cover the area of receding gum tissue. In this procedure, gum tissue is moved over the recession with local tissue rather than being taken from another part of your mouth.

What is a free gingival graft?

Free gingival graft: Your periodontist removes a small piece of tissue from the roof of your mouth and suture (stitch) it to the area that needs gum tissue. You’ll likely get this type of graft if your gums are thin and need extra tissue to prevent further recession. Connective tissue graft: Your periodontist opens a small flap in the roof ...

What are the different types of gum grafts?

There are three types of gum grafts: free gingival graft. connective tissue graft. pedicle (lateral) graft. A periodontist will discuss these options with you and make their recommendation based on your individual needs.

Why do dentists do gum grafts?

Why are gum grafts performed? If your gums are receding, your dentist may recommend a gum tissue graft. Gum recession exposes the roots of your teeth. This can cause the root surface of your teeth to become more likely to decay, as well as be more sensitive and prone to abrasion. A gum graft, also known as a gingival graft, ...

How much does a gum graft cost?

Gum grafts can cost anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. If you’re insured, this procedure may be covered in full or at little out-of-pocket cost to you. You may be able to have the procedure done for free if you have dental insurance as part of an Affordable Care Act plan.

When is Gum Graft Surgery Necessary?

Periodontal disease occurs when the destruction from oral bacteria has reached the underlying jawbone. The pockets created by gum inflammation deepen and more gum tissue and bone are affected. Eventually, due to loss of support, the teeth can become loose and fall out due to inflammation and gum recession.

Types of Gum Grafts

There are a few different types of gum grafts that are commonly performed. Dr. Harrison will work with each patient on an individual basis to assess their needs and determine the type of graft needed for your dental health.

Periodontal Surgeon in Asheville, NC

Our multidisciplinary periodontal and dental implant practice is dedicated to restoring and improving your periodontal health using state-of-the-art methods and technologies to create beautiful, healthy smiles. Schedule your appointment online or call us today.

How to recover from gum graft surgery?

The Gum graft surgery recovery process is pretty simple – you don’t have to put yourself through a specific diet or take any medications before to ensure your gum tissue graft recovery goes well at the surgical site. Some tips to follow: Make sure that you are giving yourself enough sleep the day before the procedure.

How to avoid exertion after gum graft surgery?

2. Avoid Exertion during your Gum Graft Surgery Recovery. First, the periodontist might want you to stay at the office for an hour so they can make sure there are no issues with your new gum grafts. After, you are good to go home.

Why is gum tissue important in Los Angeles?

Healthy gum tissue is essential to oral health in Los Angeles. After all, it’s the city that is home to Hollywood’s biggest stars, who need to look their best on and off camera. Our gums help hold our teeth in place and protect the roots from trauma and bacteria.

What to eat after gum graft?

Knowing what to eat after a gum graft is important because your gums will be sensitive and you want to take care of them. Vitamin-rich and well-blended soups and smoothies can help make a liquid diet delicious and appealing for the first two days after your surgery.

How long after gum graft surgery can you eat yogurt?

After two days, you can add in soft foods, such as yogurt or cottage cheese. 4. Rinse Your Mouth for clean gum Tissue. For the first 24 hours after your gum graft surgery, during your gum graft surgery recovery, you should not rinse your mouth at all.

How long does it take for gum grafts to heal?

The gum graft recovery & healing will usually take weeks so its important to take the time slowly. 3. Stick to a Liquid Diet when considering gum graft recovery foods.

What to do after gum surgery?

After gum surgery, it is important to manage pain and ice packs are a great way to do that. By using topical ointments or medications such as ibuprofen, you can reduce the swelling in your mouth, which will also decrease the amount of discomfort you feel.

Why do you need a bone graft before a tooth implant?

A bone graft is most often used in restorative dentistry to bulk up the jawbone before having implant surgery. After significant trauma, infection, disease, or an extended period of time without teeth, your jawbone may need restoration before a tooth implant procedure. That's because your jaw can actually lose some of its density, making it unfit for implantation. That's where a bone graft comes in; grafts are a way to build your bone up, by inserting bone taken from another place in your body, or even another body.

How often should I clean my mouth after bone graft surgery?

They may include rinsing your mouth out with a mouthwash prescribed by your doctor twice or more a day. Keeping your mouth clean while it is healing is incredibly important. After the healing process from the bone graft procedure is finished, the patient can go in for dental implant surgery.

What is socket grafting?

Socket graft. A bone graft for dental implants is necessary if after a tooth is removed, the surrounding bone is weak and susceptible to decay. This type of bone grafting for a tooth implant is called a socket graft and it is typically performed after a tooth is extracted. This is because the body will gradually resorb the bone unless it is ...

How long does jaw bone grafting surgery take?

The state of your jawbone will determine which type you will need. Jawbone graft surgery typically lasts 45 minutes to an hour. Check out this video to see how the surgery works!

What is dental bone graft?

Dental bone graft material. There are many different materials used for bone grafting but they can generally be divided into three categories: Allograft: Bone that is harvested from a human donor or cadaver for use in medical procedures. Autograph: Bone that is harvested from another area of the patient's body.

Why do you need a bone graft?

This surgical procedure is usually done when the jaw bone is too weak for the placement of a dental implant.

How long does it take for a tooth graft to heal?

But, considering that you're essentially adding another piece of bone to your jawbone and getting it to fuse together into a new bone, six months healing time isn't so bad.

What is gum grafting?

Traditional gum grafting surgery involves tissues being cut and stitched to cover exposed roots. This may include taking tissue from the palate to graft onto existing gum tissue, or it may involve cutting the gums, stretching them to cover roots, and then suturing them together.

How is tissue regeneration done?

Tissue regeneration uses a platelet concentrate gel applied to a collagen membrane as the graft instead of using tissue from the roof of the mouth. The graft is soaked in the patient’s platelets using blood drawn in the same visit. Placed over the receding tooth root, the graft is then surgically secured.

Is gum grafting painful?

This technique is considered to be less invasive, less painful, and requires less recovery time than traditional gum grafting. During the procedure, a small pinhole is made in the gums so they can be repositioned to cover exposed roots. Collagen is then injected into pinholes to ensure the gums remain as they have been positioned. Results are immediate.

How to prepare for gum graft?

Below are a few smart ways to prepare before your surgery. Arrange Transportation. After the surgery, you may not be able to safely operate a vehicle for a brief period of time due to the anesthetics used.

Why do periodontists need to graft gums?

Because gum tissue does not grow back, your periodontist will need to perform gum grafting, to replace lost gum tissue and restore your smile.  In this treatment, donor tissue is grafted to the area of recession and will integrate over time.

What to do if you have receding gums?

If they do suggest this treatment, there are certain key steps you should take beforehand to prepare. Ask your dental care team to advise on any further steps you should take as you get ready for the procedure. Preparation for the procedure doesn’t require too much. In general, the patient and dentist will have a consultation beforehand to decide which gum graft is appropriate. Below are a few smart ways to prepare before your surgery.

What happens when your gums are receding?

Receding gums can also damage the bone that supports the tooth.

What is the best vitamin for gum grafting?

Foods rich in this vitamin include oranges, papaya, strawberries, peppers, tomatoes, brussel sprouts, and cauliflower. Vitamin A and protein will also help your body to heal after your gum grafting procedure.

What to take after gum grafting?

Foods rich in this vitamin include oranges, papaya, strawberries, peppers, tomatoes, brussel sprouts, and cauliflower. Vitamin A and protein will also help your body to heal after your gum grafting procedure.

What to eat after a syringe surgery?

For the initial few days, it is better to switch to a liquid diet. Liquid diet decreases discomfort, pain and soothes the healing process. Soups, stews, and juices are perfect to start your diet with after surgery.

Why do people get gum grafts?

Some people choose to have a gum graft for cosmetic reasons, such as to have a better smile; while for others, a gum graft is necessary to protect the exposed tooth from damage and repair any damage already done .

What is gum graft?

Takeaway. A gum graft is a type of dental surgery performed to correct the effects of gum recession. It is a quick and relatively simple surgery in which a periodontist removes healthy gum tissue from the roof of the mouth and uses it to build the gum back up where it has receded. Gum recession occurs when gum tissue wears away, ...

What is gum graft surgery?

Gum graft surgery is a procedure that helps to restore gums that have worn down, can help protect teeth, and improve the appearance of a person’s smile. There are different types of gum graft surgery available. All are relatively straightforward procedures with minimal risk of any complications.

What is the procedure to remove gum tissue from the gum around the tooth?

Pedicle (lateral) grafts. This is the preferred method for people who have lots of gum tissue growing near the exposed tooth. In this procedure the periodontist: grafts tissue from the gum around or near the tooth requiring treatment. only partially cuts away this tissue, keeping one edge attached.

How to remove tissue from the roof of the mouth?

removes tissue from the roof of the mouth by making a flap and taking tissue from underneath the top layer. stitches the tissue onto the existing gum tissue to cover the exposed tooth root. stitches the flap on the roof of the mouth from where they took the tissue.

How long does it take for a periodontist to heal?

If they remove the tissue from the roof of the mouth a person may feel pain for a few days. The healing process is often quick, taking 1 to 2 weeks for the mouth to heal fully but may take longer.

What is the procedure to enlarge gums?

Free gingival grafts. This is the preferred method for people with thin gums who require extra tissue to enlarge the gums. In this procedure the periodontist: removes tissue directly from the top layer of tissue on the roof of the mouth. stitches this tissue to the existing gum area.

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