A lot of people do not notice the gradual recession of their gums. It is such a “slow” process that the changes in your gum line are really hard to notice. Gum recession is a fairly common dental problem and can go unnoticed until the condition becomes quite severe.
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Below are some of the common questions you may about gum grafts.
What is Gum Graft Surgery?
Gum surgery sounds worse than it actually is- really! Gum recession can result in exposed roots. If your gum is no longer the “blanket” that covers your tooth’s root, you could suffer from significant dental problems.
Gum grafts is a surgical procedure performed by a periodontist. The main objective of the graft is to stop gum recession and prevent the loss of your teeth’s important supporting structures.
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What are the main types of Gum Grafting?
There are 3 main types of gum grating
1. Subepithelial Connective Tissue Graft
This type of gum graft will involve the removal of tissue from the outer layer of the palate. This tissue will then be relocated to the affected site of gum recession.
2. Free Gingival Graft
Gingivital grafts are mostly used to thicken and strengthen the gum tissue. A layer of tissue will be taken from the palate. It will then be transposed tot the site of gum recession.
3. Acellular Dermal Matrix Allograft
In this case, donated human tissue will the transferred to the site of gum recession. There won’t be any tissue taken out of the patient’s palate.
Gum graft surgery can seem complicated and scary. During your consultation with Dr. Manhas, feel free to voice your concerns. We welcome your questions and our staff is here to help you deal with any anxiety you are experiencing about the procedure. A gum graft sounds frightening, but is in fact, a highly predictable procedure with tremendous positive results.
What if I choose not to have the gum graft?
The effects of gum recession can be incredibly damaging. If not treated, gum recession can cause tremendous root sensitivity, especially when exposed to hot or cold foods. In addition, you could suffer from loss of bone, decay, and tooth loss.
What are the benefits of a gum graft?
Gum grafts can have tremendous positive effects in terms of function and esthetics. The main advantages of a gum graft are:
- Prevention of further gum recession and bone loss
- Exposed roots are covered and protected from decay
- Reduced food sensitivity and less dietary restrictions
- Improved aesthetic appearance
Is gum graft surgery painful?
Most patients report that post-surgery pain is very manageable with regular pain medication. Depending on your condition and your level of intolerance to pain, you may get a prescription for stronger pain medication. It is common for patients to experience bruising in the lips and cheeks.
Prior your gum graft surgery, our staff will share detailed instructions on how you can prepare for your procedure. After your surgery has been completed, Isabelle, one of our Registered Dental Assistants, will spend some time discussing the post-surgery recommendations. We strive to make the process comfortable, and will partner with you to achieve your quick and easy recovery.
If you’ve been told that you need Gum Graft Surgery in Calgary, please contact our clinic at 403.288.3334. Our NW periodontal clinic is conveniently located in the Northland Professional Centre Building, next to the Northland Wal-Mart.