Categories: Uncategorized

Is Gum Grafting an Invasive Procedure?

Anytime there is a gum recession that leaves the roots of the teeth exposed and vulnerable to decay, gum grafting may be necessary. This procedure can also be performed to improve the look of a patient's smile. The gradual nature of receding gums means the condition can often become severe without a person's knowledge. Because gum recession can lead to tooth decay and loss due to the exposure of the more susceptible roots, individuals should not avoid the process of gum grafting. Here are three different types of gum grafting and the details about each procedure.

Grafts using tissue taken off the roof of the patient's mouth

Two of the gum grafting procedures involve repairing receding tissue by using healthy tissue from the roof of the patient's mouth.

Free gingival grafts

In this procedure, the tissue is taken from the surface of the roof of the mouth and attached to the treatment area. This type of graft is usually performed on patients who are not experiencing pain, tooth sensitivity or visual concerns. It is also better to use this procedure in cosmetic cases rather than when there are exposed roots that need covering up. Recovery time for this procedure is one to two weeks, and some levels of discomfort and pain have been reported by patients, according to WebMD. 

Connective-tissue grafts

As the most commonly performed type of gum grafts for root exposure, connective tissue grafts are more invasive. During this procedure, a flap is cut in the skin on the roof of the mouth to reveal the subepithelial connective tissue underneath. Some of this tissue is removed for use as the gum graft, and the flap is stitched back in place. The removed tissue is then stitched to the existing gum tissue around the area where the root is exposed. About as equally uncomfortable and painful as free gingival grafts, recovery time from connective-tissue grafts is still between one and two weeks. In both cases, eating foods that are soft and cool can make things more bearable. 

Grafts using existing gum tissue

Not nearly as invasive as grafts using tissue from the roof of the mouth, this type of graft is also typically much less painful.

Pedicle grafts

In cases where there is sufficient gum tissue in the area surrounding the root exposure, part of the gum can be cut back, stretched and reattached over the exposed root. Due to the non-invasive nature of this type of procedure, there is almost no pain or discomfort afterward, and the typical recovery time is only a couple of days. 

Conclusion

There are three primary types of gum grafts performed. The two that involve removing tissue from the roof of the mouth are slightly invasive, somewhat painful and have a recovery period of one to two weeks. Sometimes there is enough healthy gum tissue around the area of an exposed root that a pedicle graft can be performed. This kind of graft is much less invasive, entails little discomfort and only takes a couple of days for a complete recovery. 

Are you considering gum grafting in the Albuquerque area? Get more information at https://www.roderickgarciadmd.com.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.

Recent Posts

Partial Denture For One Missing Tooth: Getting Used To Your Partial Denture

Learning to live with a partial denture for one missing tooth takes time. It will take several weeks for you to get used to having a foreign object in your mouth, and it may be difficult to chew or speak clearly for the first few weeks after getting dentures. There are several things you can…

3 Myths About Getting A Partial Denture For One Missing Tooth

A missing tooth due to an accident or gum disease can lead to embarrassment and oral health challenges. A partial denture for one missing tooth is an excellent option for anyone who wants a fast and affordable way to fill a gap between teeth. Unfortunately, misinformation about partial dentures can prevent dental patients from making…

Examples Of Denture Repair

Denture repair is a necessary procedure to fix damaged and worn-out dentures. Daily usage and structural changes in the body can alter the way your dentures fit and make them uncomfortable and difficult to use. It can cause pain, sores, irritation, and swelling. Luckily, taking your dentures for a repair is a cheaper alternative than…

4 Tips For Aftercare For A Partial Denture For One Missing Tooth

A missing tooth can increase the risk of developing gum disease and cause teeth around a gap to become misaligned. A partial denture for one missing tooth may be recommended as a fast and cost-effective solution.Most dentists usually recommend two options for a single missing tooth. The first option consists of a false acrylic or…

Dr. Garcia

Share
Published by
Dr. Garcia

Recent Posts

Partial Denture for One Missing Tooth: Getting Used To Your Partial Denture

Learning to live with a partial denture for one missing tooth takes time. It will…

3 days ago

3 Myths About Getting a Partial Denture for One Missing Tooth

A missing tooth due to an accident or gum disease can lead to embarrassment and…

1 week ago

Examples of Denture Repair

Generally, there are three types of denture repair — adjustments, relining, and rebasing.

2 weeks ago

4 Tips for Aftercare for a Partial Denture for One Missing Tooth

A missing tooth can increase the risk of developing gum disease and cause teeth around…

2 weeks ago

Dental Bridge vs. Implants: Which Tooth Replacement Option is Right for You?

Both dental bridges and implants are effective tooth replacement options, each with distinct advantages and…

3 weeks ago

The FAQ’s of Getting a Partial Denture for One Missing Tooth

A missing tooth does not have to be a permanent condition. One option for treatment…

4 weeks ago