A gingival graft, or gum graft, is a simple dental procedure that involves placing a small amount of tissue in an area around a tooth where there is little or no gum tissue. Gum grafting will cover exposed teeth roots to improve discomfort from increased sensitivity and add needed volume to the gum line for both better health and better appearance. Gum grafts will also help to protect the teeth and bone from deterioration.
Gum grafts might be necessary if there is gum recession from periodontitis, or gum disease, but that is not the only issue that will cause gums to recede. Simply brushing too aggressively, or smoking, hormonal changes, diabetes, and your genetics will play a role in gum recession.
What Is the Gingival Graft Success Rate
Gingival grafts have a proven success rate of over 90% and will help treat gum recession and improve your oral health. If there are no complications and you maintain your proper oral hygiene and dental care, a gum graft will last your lifetime.
Gingival Graft Recovery
Free gingival graft recovery might take one to two weeks, but the recovery will vary from person to person. It is usually more comfortable with donor tissue instead of taking the graft from the palate, or roof of your mouth.
The immediate area is usually tender for a few days. You might want to refrain from strenuous activity or exercise for 24 hours after the procedure, but usually you can return to your usual activities the following day.
The pain of the gum graft fades quickly, but there might be sensitivity to hard foods and hot or cold drinks for a few weeks. With a free gingival graft taken from the palate, the discomfort can feel similar to burning the roof of your mouth. Over-the-counter medications are usually sufficient to manage any discomfort. Soft foods are also recommended for several days during free gingival graft healing.
Is There an Alternative to Gum Grafting?
Gum graft procedures are a wonderful option if you have gum recession, but there are alternatives if you have gum recession and prefer not to have a gum graft.
- Scaling and root planing- Scaling and root planing will remove accumulated, damaging tartar from below your gum line, allowing your gums to heal and preventing further recession. This might not be an option if you are suffering from severe gum recession.
- Bone regeneration- When your gums are significantly receded, there might be accompanying jawbone deterioration beneath your gum line. Bone regeneration with a bone graft could be necessary to augment the bone to prepare for dental implants, but this might be reserved for severe periodontitis.
- Gum contouring- Gum contouring is used to reshape your gums using either a laser or scalpel under anesthesia. This procedure will reduce the depth of the pockets around the teeth to improve oral hygiene and also restore the look of your healthy smile. Gum contouring is often used in conjunction with gum grafting.