Gum Grafting

Gum grafting is a surgical procedure used to treat receding gums, a condition where the gum tissue wears away, exposing the roots of the teeth. During the procedure, our oral surgeon in Huntersville, NC, harvests a small amount of tissue from the roof of the mouth or another donor source and attaches it to the affected area, covering the exposed roots. This helps protect the roots from decay, sensitivity, and further recession while also improving the smile's aesthetics.

Gum grafting is crucial for preventing tooth loss, preserving dental health, and enhancing oral well-being by restoring gum tissue and preventing complications associated with gum recession. 

Suitable Candidate for Gum Grafting 

• Gum grafting in Huntersville, NC, is particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing gum recession, where the gum tissue has pulled away from the teeth, exposing the roots. 
• Exposed tooth roots due to gum recession can lead to heightened sensitivity to hot, cold, and touch. Gum grafting, which covers the exposed roots with grafted tissue, can help alleviate this sensitivity. 
• Gum recession creates pockets between the teeth and gums where bacteria can accumulate, increasing the risk of gum disease. Gum grafting can help reduce this risk by covering exposed areas and creating a tighter seal around the teeth. 
• Receding gums can negatively impact the aesthetics of your smile, making your teeth appear longer than they should and creating an uneven gumline. Gum grafting can restore balance and symmetry to the gums, enhancing the overall appearance of your smile. 
• Gum recession can affect the alignment and stability of teeth, leading to changes in bite and jaw function. Gum grafting helps reestablish proper gum support around teeth, improving their alignment and stability within the mouth. Contact us today! 

The Procedure for Gum Grafting 

The procedure for gum grafting typically begins with a thorough examination and consultation with our oral surgeon at The Center For Oral Surgery & Dental Implants to assess the extent of gum recession and determine the most suitable approach.

On the day of the procedure, local anesthesia is administered to ensure the patient's comfort throughout the process. The oral surgeon then carefully harvests a small amount of tissue from the patient's palate (roof of the mouth) or another donor source, depending on the specific type of graft. Alternatively, tissue may be obtained from a tissue bank.

Once the graft tissue is prepared, it is delicately placed and secured over the areas of recession, covering the exposed roots and restoring the natural contours of the gumline. The graft is then stitched into place, and a protective dressing may be applied to aid in the healing process. Patients receive post-operative care instructions and may be prescribed pain medication or antibiotics to manage discomfort and prevent infection. 

Following the procedure, patients are advised to avoid strenuous activities and maintain good oral hygiene to promote healing and prevent complications. While some discomfort and swelling are standard in the days following gum grafting, most patients can resume their regular activities within a few days to a week.

Over time, the grafted tissue integrates with the existing gum tissue, providing long-lasting protection for the exposed roots and improving oral health and aesthetics. Follow-up appointments with the oral surgeon are scheduled to monitor healing progress and ensure optimal outcomes.

Gum grafting is a safe and effective procedure that offers significant benefits for individuals experiencing gum recession, providing a pathway to restored oral health and confidence. 

The Benefits of Gum Grafting 

Preservation of Tooth Structure 

Gum recession exposes the sensitive roots of your teeth, leaving them vulnerable to decay, sensitivity, and eventual loss. One of the primary benefits of gum grafting is that it helps preserve the underlying tooth structure by covering and protecting these exposed roots. By restoring the gumline to its natural position, gum grafting reduces the risk of further damage and maintains the integrity of your teeth. 

Reduction of Sensitivity 

Exposed tooth roots can be extremely sensitive to hot, cold, and touch, causing discomfort and pain during everyday activities such as eating and drinking. Gum grafting addresses this issue by covering the exposed roots with grafted tissue, effectively insulating them from external stimuli. As a result, patients experience a significant reduction in tooth sensitivity, leading to improved oral comfort and a better quality of life. 

Prevention of Gum Disease 

Gum recession creates pockets between the teeth and gums where bacteria can accumulate, increasing the risk of gum disease and other oral infections. Gum grafting helps eliminate these pockets and creates a tighter seal around the teeth by covering these exposed areas with grafted tissue. This makes it more difficult for bacteria to thrive and facilitates more accessible oral hygiene practices, reducing the likelihood of gum disease and promoting long-term oral health. 

Enhancement of Aesthetics 

Receding gums can detract from the beauty of your smile, making your teeth appear longer than they should and creating an uneven gumline. Gum grafting restores balance and symmetry to the gums, enhancing the overall aesthetics of your smile. Gum grafting can help boost your confidence and self-esteem by providing a natural-looking gumline, allowing you to smile with pride again. 

Gum grafting offers many benefits for individuals experiencing gum recession, ranging from the preservation of tooth structure and reduction of sensitivity to the prevention of gum disease and enhancement of smile aesthetics. If you're struggling with gum recession or are concerned about the health and appearance of your gums, visit The Center For Oral Surgery & Dental Implants at 9713 Northcross Center Court, Suite 100, Huntersville, NC 28078, or call (704) 875-8833 to explore whether gum grafting is the right solution for you.