Gum Recession Surgery
Gum recession is defined as when a tooth’s root begins to show due to a lessening of the gum line. Once the root is exposed, decay, abrasion, and sensitivity are more likely to occur. This can lead to extensive treatment requires and/or eventual tooth loss.
When gum recession occurs, gum graft surgery is the solution. Also known as a gingival graft, a gum graft is a simple surgical procedure proven to correct receding gums.
Receding Gums Treatment
The first step in gum graft surgery is to consult with a dentist or a gum specialist.
Depending on the specific needs of each patient, the dentist will suggest one of three treatment options:
- Connective-Tissue Graft – This is the most common method of treating gum recession. The procedure involves using connective tissue from the roof of the mouth to cover the exposed roots at the gum line.
- Free Gingival Graft – Similar to the connective-tissue graft, this treatment includes removing tissue directly from the roof of the mouth to place onto the gum line at the exposed roots. This surgical procedure is most common for patients who have exceptionally thin gums.
- Pedicle Graft – When patients have enough gum tissue around their teeth, they can receive this type of graft. The tissue is split into what’s called a pedicle near the teeth, then greatly rolled down or over to cover the receding gum line.
A dental professional will be able to advise on which treatment is best for you. *Alternative options include synthetic graft materials or Bovine (cow).
Gum Graft Preparation and Recovery
Besides the consultation, dental patients do not need to do much to prepare for the surgery. However, the procedure will result in one to two weeks of recovery time in which you are able to work and continue life as normal.
Eat soft foods such as:
- Yogurt
- Ice Cream
- Cooked Vegetables
- Jell-O
Gum Graft Pain:
Depending on which procedure is performed, there may be a bit of pain or discomfort in the days following the treatment. This is especially true if tissue had to be removed from the roof of the mouth.
The good thing about mouth tissue is that it heals quickly. For pain relief, over the counter medications usually do the trick! However, your surgeon will provide you prescription if necessary to ensure your comfortable while healing.
Gum Graft Cost
Gum Graft Cost for surgery is anywhere between a couple hundred dollars to a couple thousand, depending on the patient’s insurance plan. In some cases, insurance plans may cover the entire procedure. Check here to see if Maxus Dental accepts your insurance plan!
