The recovery and healing time for a gum grafting procedure can be as short as a week to two with complete recovery more like a month. This recovery period will come with some strict instructions to ensure proper healing. Before the recovery process let’s describe both the process itself and why you might consider having gum grafting.
The Causes behind Gum Grafting
Gum recession is a natural result from the aging process. As your gums recede the roots of your teeth will become exposed. This will lead to sensitivity from the exposed tooth, some bone loss and even the possible loss of the tooth. Gum recession will become a problem when it is accelerated by periodontal or gum disease, the habit of smoking or the simple bad habit of poor oral hygiene with how you care for your teeth and gums. You might be quite diligent about adhering to the health industry suggestions of brushing twice a day but are doing damage because you are being too aggressive and using a firm-bristle toothbrush. It is best to both consult and work with your dentist on establishing an oral health care plan to maintain the health of your teeth and your gums.
The Gum Grafting Procedure
In most procedures the dentist or periodontist will go to one of three places on your palette, the roof of your mouth, for a donor source for the tissue graft. The procedure is completed with the appropriate amount of anesthesia as the donor tissue is both removed and then surgically placed in the area of need. Essentially when you are finished you have two areas with sutures. On an occasion grafting tissue from a tissue bank may be used eliminating one set of sutures but this source will come with an additional cost.
The Gum Grafting Recovery Expectations
You will be sore for a good day or two. You will be strongly advised to NOT brush your teeth in or around the grafting site and you will be provided a list of preferred soft foods to eat. It might be suggested that for a reasonable period of time the foods remain cold so it will not aggravate the sutures. The softer food will minimize the necessity for you to chew which is beneficial through the recovery process. You can expect a follow up visit in a week to evaluate the progress of the healing and allowing both brushing and diet changes. By following your instructions, you are avoiding the possibility of infections and complications.
The Benefits of having Gum Grafting
Most people consider the appearance of their teeth when they evaluate their smile. The gums though are equally as important in developing a good ratio balance. Your smile is an underappreciated asset that says volumes about your personality and who you are. It can be the basic foundation for your self-confidence and your self-esteem. Paying attention to both your teeth and gums is crucial for quality of life. Allowing your gums to recede will also have the health implications of bone loss and tooth loss so it is more important than just the cosmetics of a healthy smile. Collaborate with your dentist and establish a preventative oral hygiene program at home.
