Gum Grafting

Gum grafting is a gum surgery in which a piece of gum tissue is grafted to the gums. It is used to cover exposed tooth roots or cover recessed gums. Gum grafting can also be used to fix gum recession. Gum surgery can correct a number of gum-related issues, from minor to severe.

What are the advantages of gum grafting?

Gum grafting is a safe and effective treatment for gums that appear too short. If the gums aren’t properly proportioned to the teeth, it can contribute to dental malocclusion or improper bite. Gum grafting can add more gum tissue to teeth that appear too small or short. It can also correct gum recession, which can contribute to tooth sensitivity and decay.

• Gum grafting can help to eliminate tooth sensitivity caused by gum disease. 
• A gum graft can rejuvenate your smile by making teeth look longer.
• Gum grafting is a great treatment to use for periodontal disease. The diseased tissue is removed from the gums, and new tissue is grafted. This can help prevent the gums from becoming irritated, puffy, and swollen.
• Gum grafting can put a stop to gum recession and the bone loss it can cause, also known as periodontitis. Gum grafting can repair the damage and can also help prevent any future damage from occurring.
• The gum grafting procedure helps with speech impairments caused by gum disease.
• Gum grafting can make it easier for patients to brush and floss their teeth, which is essential for good oral health.
• Gum grafting can be used to improve the appearance of a smile and to restore oral health.

Is gum grafting right for you?

Gum grafting is a procedure that restores the gum tissue to a healthy, aesthetically appealing condition. Gum grafts may be necessary for individuals who have receded gums or gums that appear uneven as a result of tooth loss. When a tooth is lost, the gum and bone tissue that formerly supported that tooth begin to recede as well. Gum grafting procedures restore and replace lost gum tissue, helping patients achieve a healthy and attractive smile.

Procedure

Gum grafting is a surgical procedure that can restore or enhance the gums. During the procedure, tissue from the gum area or from elsewhere in the mouth can be used. A piece of tissue is taken from the roof of the mouth, and the tissue is then stitched into place. The skin around your mouth will be stitched together, and the area will be left to heal.

The piece of tissue in the gum area will grow into the gum tissue, and the area will eventually blend in with the rest of the gums. In some cases, the tissue will be taken from the roof of the mouth and stitched into the gum area, which is known as a subepithelial connective tissue graft. This tissue will attach to the gums directly.

What happens after gum grafting?

The surgeon will suture the gum graft in place. The sutures will dissolve, but they may need to be removed by the dentist. After surgery, avoid brushing the grafted area for at least a day. The grafted area may bleed or ooze blood the first day after surgery. If the patient experiences significant swelling, the dentist may prescribe pain medication.

At LAGOS Periodontics & Dental Implants, Rodrigo A. Lagos, DDS, MS, practices a full scope of periodontics with expertise in preventive periodontics, cosmetic periodontal surgery, gum grafting, and dental implants. To schedule an appointment, call us at 760-568-3421 or visit our practice at 36945 Cook St.Suite 101, Palm Desert, CA 92260.