How long does it take a gum graft to heal?
Patients who suffer from gum recession May find themselves avoiding certain foods and beverages that are very hot or cold. Gum recession can cause extreme sensitivity along the gum line since the root surface has become exposed. Recession can be a result of periodontal disease, aggressive brushing, genetics, and even certain medications.
Left untreated, gum recession can lead to jaw bone deterioration and even tooth loss. Gum tissue does not regenerate on its own but fortunately, a gum graft can restore the area and relieve pain. Some general dentists have the training and technology to perform a gum graft Richmond virginia in-house but if they do not, they can refer you to a periodontist for treatment.
Gum Graft Procedure
To begin, your doctor will apply a topical numbing agent before injecting a local anesthetic in the area being treated. A gum graft uses tissue that is harvested from either a donor or the roof of the patient’s mouth. There are different types of gum grafts that can be performed and after an evaluation, your doctor will determine which option will be best for you. Types of gum grafts include a free gingival graft, a pedicle graft, and a connective tissue graft.
- A free gingival graft uses tissue taken from the roof of the patient’s mouth or harvested from a donor cadaver that is then stitched into place over the affected area.
- A pedicle graft is less common as it is necessary for the patient to have thick and healthy gum tissue surrounding the affected area. The doctor will cut a flap of healthy tissue and stitch it into place over the affected area.
- A connective tissue graft is the most common procedure and uses a piece of underlying connective tissue harvested from the roof of the patient’s mouth that is then stitched into place over the affected area.
Recovery from Gum Graft Surgery
Gum graft surgery is an outpatient procedure that takes just an hour or two, depending on the size of the area being treated. After your treatment, the doctor will provide you with a list of postoperative instructions to follow while you heal. It is important to follow these instructions closely so that you heal as quickly as possible.
Instructions will include dietary restrictions and oral care instructions. While you heal, it is important to continue brushing and flossing as normal while taking extreme care to avoid your surgery site until your doctor clears you. Brushing and flossing can irritate the area and cause the site to re-open and possibly lead to an infection. A warm salt water rinse is a great way to clean your mouth after eating and will help clear food particles away from your surgery site. It will also help to soothe the area and ease inflammation.
Soft foods that are high in fiber and protein will keep you satiated during recovery. Foods that are crunchy, acidic, have small seeds, or are too hot will only irritate your surgery site and should be avoided. Scrambled eggs, soup, soft cooked vegetables, and pasta are all great options!
You may also choose to take over-the-counter pain medication can help ease discomfort but if you feel that you are experiencing more pain than you can tolerate, contact your doctor to make sure that you are not developing an infection and ask about prescribed pain medication.
On a very rare occasion, a patient may develop an infection or the gum graft will fail to integrate with existing gum tissue so make sure that you follow your post-operative instructions to the letter and if you notice any bleeding or pus coming from your surgery site, contact your doctor immediately so that they can treat you for a possible infection.
More on Gum Grafting : How Painful is Gum Grafting?