When gums start to recede, it can cause both discomfort and a decline in confidence. To improve your gums, Full Smile Periodontics offers gum grafting procedures that will help restore the health of your gums. Our experts can help with sensitivity, root exposure, and appearance concerns with a lasting solution.

What Are Gum Grafts?

When gum recession becomes a problem, gun grafting is a treatment option used to fix the problem. Gum recession is when the gum tissue pulls away from the teeth, eventually exposing the roots. This can cause decay, sensitivity, and an uneven smile. Gum recession is caused by gum disease, genetics, poor oral hygiene, aggressive brushing, and lifestyle factors like smoking and teeth grinding.

Impacts from gum recession include an increased risk of infection, tooth sensitivity to cold or hot items, a disproportionate appearance of teeth, and potential tooth loss over time. Gum grafts take tissue from elsewhere in the mouth to place over the areas receding to replace it with healthy tissue.

Types of Gum Grafts

There are multiple types of gum grafts available, and the team at Full Smile Periodontics will determine the best kind for you. 

• Connective Tissue Grafts: The most common gum grafting technique, this method takes a small piece of tissue from the roof of the mouth to be placed over the exposed tooth root. This works well for improving gum coverage to treat root exposure.
• Free Gingival Grafts: For patients with thin gums, tissue is taken directly from the roof of the mouth and grafted to the necessary area in a way that will thicken the gum area.
• Pedicle Grafts: If the surrounding gums are healthy, a pedicle graft may be used. This technique moves tissue from a nearby healthy gum to cover the area that is receding.
• Pinhole Surgical Technique: This method is a less invasive procedure where small pinholes are made to reposition existing gum tissue.

After your gum grafting procedure, mild discomfort can be managed with pain medication and following the after-care instructions given by Dr. Plata. Most patients fully recover within 1-2 weeks. To take care of your newly refreshed gums, excellent oral hygiene and frequent dental checkups are a must.

Benefits of Gum Grafts

Choosing gum grafts offers the following benefits:

• Improved Oral Health: Gum grafts will improve the health of not only your gums but your overall oral health. Your tooth roots will be protected, reducing the risk of further recession. Proper gum coverage will also prevent decay, protecting teeth from further future damage.
• Reduced Sensitivity: When gums recede, they expose the roots of the tooth which can cause mild to severe sensitivity. Gum grafts cover those roots and alleviate the pain you may suffer from hot, cold, or acidic foods.
• Improved Appearance: Gum grafts will improve the look of your smile by bringing a more symmetrical look to your gums and teeth.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gum Grafts

Q: Are Gum Grafts Painful?

A: The procedure itself will not be painful as we will ensure proper anesthesia for your comfort. During recovery, some mild discomfort is to be expected. This can be managed with pain medication and proper care.

Q: How Long Is Recovery From Gum Graft Surgery?

A: The main healing that comes with mild discomfort will take place within the first few days, with most patients fully recovered within 1-2 weeks.

Q: What Causes Gum Recession?

A: A variety of things can cause gum recession, including gum disease, genetics, poor oral hygiene, smoking, teeth grinding, and aggressive brushing.

Q: What Are The Risks Of Gum Grafting?

A: There are minimal risks to gum grafting, but you may deal with some minor swelling and discomfort for the first few days. You will be sent detailed aftercare instructions with information on how to promote better healing.

Q: Will My Insurance Cover Gum Grafting?

A: Most dental insurance plans cover gum grafting, but individual coverage can vary. During your consultation, we will go over your available benefits and any other necessary financial information.

Schedule your Gum Craft Consultation with Full Smile Periodontics Today! 

Don’t let your gums take a toll on your oral health or your confidence. Full Smile Periodontics offers state-of-the-art treatments to effectively treat gum recession in a way that will improve the way you feel and look. Schedule an appointment today for a consultation to discuss how gum grafting can help you!

Full Smile Periodontics
4515 Van Winkle Dr.
Amarillo, TX 79119

806-699-6111
[email protected]