The Benefits of Gum Grafting for a Healthy Smile with Excellent Results
At Perio Implant Chicago, we are proud to offer a variety of general and periodontal treatments for patients, including gum grafting. Gum grafting is a gum restoration procedure used to rebuild oral tissue and to help cover exposed tooth roots. It is sometimes called periodontal plastic surgery or a gingival graft. It may be performed with bone grafting when patients have loose teeth. Dr. Sabzehei and associates can educate patients on gum grafting and what to expect.
Why might I need gum grafting?
Patients who have had periodontal disease will often experience gum tissue loss and recession. That can also occur due to aggressive brushing or trauma to the soft tissues. Gum grafting uses a variety of tissue materials and techniques to rebuild gums over the natural teeth for dental health and aesthetic purposes.
What are the most common types of gum grafting?
- Free gingival graft
- Subepithelial connective tissue graft
- Acellular dermal matrix allograft
- Pinhole Technique
What are the reasons for choosing gum grafting?
Gum grafting is a common periodontal surgery procedure performed at Perio Implant Chicago. Seeing an expert to perform these procedures will produce excellent, predictable results. Below are just a few of the benefits of undergoing gum grafting:
- Reduced sensitivity of the teeth
- Improved appearance of the smile
- Improved gum health after destruction from periodontal disease
What happens during gum grafting?
Once patients have spoken to their dental team and have decided to move forward with gum grafting, the procedure is done in the office as an outpatient procedure. The teeth are thoroughly cleaned to remove bacteria and tartar. Local anesthetic is used for comfort as small incisions are made in the tissues to create a small pocket. The connective tissue graft is inserted, and sutures are used to stabilize the graft in place. The healing of the gums will take place over approximately six weeks to see the results.
Gum Grafting: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Am I a good candidate for gum grafting?
Gum grafting is generally indicated for those individuals who have experienced the loss of gum tissue and gum recession. Your gumline may become damaged due to aggressive brushing or other trauma to the soft tissues. You may also be predisposed to gingival (gum) recession due to an infection that destroys tissue and bone. Very thin tissue and bone are also frequently seen among orthodontic patients, which results in little protection for the roots of the teeth.
Why is gum grafting done?
Gum grafting generally rebuilds oral tissues and covers the exposed root surfaces of the teeth. Various tissue materials and techniques may be employed to restore dental health and the overall aesthetics of the smile. After all, the appearance of the gumline plays an important role in attractive smile proportions and balance.
What results can I expect from gum grafting ?
When performed by our specialists, excellent and predictable results are supported. We have greatly succeeded in reducing the often painful sensitivity associated with gum recession and root exposure, enhancing the overall appearance, and treating the effects of gum disease by improving the health of these soft tissues.
How is gum grafting performed?
Treatment is performed in office and starts with a thorough cleaning. After we have removed bacteria and plaque build-up, our specialists use minimally-invasive techniques to access and treat damaged tissues. These techniques involve small incisions. We create a small pocket and insert the connective tissue graft through these tiny openings. Sutures are then applied to stabilize the graft. The most common techniques we use to perform this procedure are free gingival and subepithelial connective tissue grafts, acellular dermal matrix graft, and the pinhole surgical technique (PST). We can discuss the most appropriate techniques following an exam and during your consultation.
Does gum grafting hurt?
Once we have properly cleaned your teeth, local anesthetic is administered for your comfort. Your gums will be fully numb before any openings are made. Furthermore, our minimally-invasive techniques help to support a comfortable treatment experience at every step – before and after the procedure.
What is the recovery time like?
Your recovery experience is unique. No two people heal exactly the same. Generally, it takes approximately six weeks for the gums to heal and for the full results from your treatment to be visible.
Is there anything that I should avoid after this procedure?
We provide instructions on pre-treatment and after-care for all of our procedures. By following these instructions, you support fast and complication-free healing. Following a gum graft, you should largely:
- Take it easy – avoid strenuous exercise, lifting, and activity.
- Stick to a diet of cool, soft foods – pudding, smoothies, and yogurt are good choices.
- Use antibacterial mouthwash to keep the surgical site clean.
- Avoid brushing and flossing directly on the graft and only do so when directed by your doctor.
- Work your way up to more (still gentle) tolerable foods, such as steamed veggies and pasta.
- Take all medications exactly as prescribed by your dentist.
- Be prepared to incorporate spicy, hard, and crunchy foods into your diet.
Schedule a visit with Dr. Sabzehei and associates today
At Perio Implant Chicago, our professionals can assist with a wide range of dental and periodontal treatments for new and returning patients to the practice. The practice is located at 939 W. North Avenue, Suite #700, and can be reached at (312) 736-7959 to request an appointment to learn more about gum grafting in Chicago, IL.
