Gum grafting can be performed to treat receding gums.
If you are suffering from receding gums, you will know that the condition can cause some discomfort, as well as a cosmetic concern. To resolve the issue, your dentist might recommend that you undergo a gum grafting procedure. The treatment can go a long way towards improving the health of your gums as well as the appearance of your smile. But what can you expect from the process?
Why is gum grafting performed?
Gum grafting is often recommended in the case of receding gums, especially when the roots of the teeth are exposed. When the gum tissue recedes to a point where the root surface is exposed, the risk of decay tends to increase, and issues like sensitivity often occur.
If you decide to go ahead with a gum graft, your dentist will remove some tissue from the roof of your mouth or nearby healthy gum tissue and reattach it to the affected area. The treatment helps to restore proper gum function, prevents bacteria overgrowth, and achieves tighter, healthier-looking gums.
How do you prepare for the procedure?
There are several types of gum grafts, and your dentist will let you know which one is best and most appropriate for you, depending on your particular needs. When you consult with your dentist, feel free to raise any questions or concerns that you have about the process. It is important that you feel confident and informed before you go ahead with the surgery.
What can you expect during the treatment?
Before your dentist begins, they will administer a local anaesthetic to the site of treatment. This will ensure that you are relaxed and will not feel any pain during the procedure itself.
During the procedure, your dentist will extract tissue from the roof of your mouth and stitch it to the area that needs replacement tissue.
The procedure itself is fairly quick, and the recovery period is short. Your dentist may prescribe medications to help you manage any post-surgical discomfort.
What can you expect during the treatment?
It is advisable that you eat soft foods for the first week or two following your procedure and that you avoid foods that are particularly hot or hard, as these can irritate the site of the graft. Some of the best foods to eat while your mouth heals include yoghurt, soft-cooked vegetables, lukewarm soups, and smoothies.
You must practice proper oral hygiene, as this will aid your recovery and ensure that you don’t suffer an infection. Your dentist may recommend that you rinse with antimicrobial mouthwash for a few weeks. They will let you know when it is safe to brush and floss at the site of treatment. You must clean the area gently— brushing too vigorously could cause the wound to open, which might lead to pain and infection.
How can we help?
Dr. Jaclyn Wong offers a range of oral surgeries, including gum grafting procedures. If you have exposed root surfaces and would like to rebuild your gum line, we encourage you to come in for a consultation. Dr. Wong will thoroughly examine your gums and let you know if gum graft surgery is right for you.
Dr. Wong performs gum grafts with the use of microsurgery techniques. She has achieved excellent results and has helped many of her patients achieve healthier, more even, and firmer gums.
To find out more about gum grafting and what the process involves, please have a look here.
To arrange a consultation with Dr. Jaclyn Wong, please get in touch here or give us a call at (03) 9028 2665 or 0422 944 830.