Gum Grafting IN LAS VEGAS & HENDERSON, NV
ANTHEM PERIO, LAS VEGAS' CHOICE FOR ADVANCED PERIODONTICS
Gum grafting is a safe and effective procedure commonly performed for patients who have experienced gum recession, which is most commonly caused by gum disease. Early indications of gum disease include gums that bleed while flossing, gums that have begun to recede, swollen or bright red gums, and/or halitosis. Indications that gum disease has advanced to a more severe stage include teeth that have become loosened or fallen out and the deterioration of the jawbone. In addition to damaging the overall functionality of your teeth and diminishing the aesthetic appearance of your smile, studies indicate that gum disease may also play a role in systemic inflammation, which puts you at an increased risk of developing serious health issues, such as heart disease, stroke, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and/or dementia.
Benefits of Gum Grafting
Patients who have gum grafting performed will benefit in the following ways:
- Strengthens and stabilizes your gums
- Teeth sensitivity decreases
- Reduces risk of developing gum disease
- Decreases risk of experiencing additional gum recession
- Improved appearance of your smile can restore self-confidence
The Gum Grafting Procedure
An initial consultation and general examination will be necessary to determine if gum grafting is the right treatment option for you. During this visit, we will review your health history, discuss your oral health concerns and goals, and examine your teeth, gums, and cheeks to determine your overall health and identify any underlying issues. Following this examination, we will explain available treatment options and answer any questions you have.
If it is determined that gum grafting is necessary, the type of gum graft provided will be determined. Patients with thin gums and who require more tissue will likely have a free gingival graft, whereas patients with exposed roots will likely have a connective-tissue graft performed. A pedicle graft may be performed for patients with significant loss of gum tissue, whereas allograft (donated human tissue) may be used for patients who would prefer to not undergo the pain involved in collecting tissue.
Regardless of the graft type, your follow-up appointment will begin with administration of a local anesthetic and/or sedation. Next, the tissue will be removed from your palate (unless allograft tissue is being used) and then placed over the area of recession. Once properly positioned, the graft is sutured in place and the healing process can begin.
Do you Want To
Improve Your Oral Health or Replace Missing Teeth?
Aftercare Following Gum Grafting
Once your procedure is complete, we will provide post-operative instructions to ensure that you minimize your risk of developing complications and enjoy a fast a recovery time. Following a gum graft, it is common to experience sensitivity, swelling, and mild discomfort, but this can typically be managed using ice packs and over the counter pain relieving medication. If you are prescribed pain relieving medication and/or antibiotics, it is essential to follow the recommended dose until the prescription runs out. It will also be necessary to stick to a soft food diet for the next two weeks and avoid beverages that are extremely hot or extremely cold.
Once you have fully recovered, you can return to your normal diet and self-care practices, however, taking consistent good care of your oral health will reduce the likelihood of needing similar treatments in the future, especially if this procedure was performed because of improper or insufficient self-care. Make it a habit to brush your teeth twice daily (at a minimum) for at least two minutes each time. Also, remember to brush your tongue and cheeks, as well as behind the lower and upper front teeth.
Flossing at least once a day and being mindful of the type of foods and beverages you consume are also important steps to maintaining good oral health and preserving the integrity of your implants. Finally, continuing to schedule regular checkups every six months (or more if necessary) is the most important step you can take to maintain your oral health and identify and correct issues before they develop into something more significant. By following these best practices, you will maximize your recovery process and continue to enjoy good oral health!
Cost of Gum Grafting
The cost of gum grafting is contingent on a variety of factors, including the severity of your case, whether dental sedation is used, and your dental insurance plan. At Anthem Periodontics and Dental Implants, we are committed to helping you maximize your insurance reimbursement so you can receive optimal care, which is why we will file your claim and handle your paperwork. Please be aware, though, that any remaining balance following coverage is your responsibility to cover. Though not required, we do offer a discount for patients who pay their bill in full (cash, check, or credit) prior to treatment.
Before scheduling your appointment, we will provide an estimated total cost and answer any questions you have concerning payment plan options, such as Care Credit which offer interest-free payment plans for six-to-twelve-month periods and/or a payment arrangement made in advance with our office.
For your convenience, we accept MasterCard, Visa, Discover, and American Express.
Schedule Your Appointment
Fortunately, gum disease can be reversed and gum recession can be corrected through a variety of procedures, one of the most common being a gum graft, a procedure that involves removing a piece of tissue from the roof of your mouth (or using donor tissue) then grafting that tissue over the recessed area. At Anthem Periodontics and Dental Implants, your oral health is our number one goal. We are committed to providing you with the comprehensive periodontal support you need to continue enjoying a bright, healthy smile. To learn more or schedule an appointment for gum grafting, contact our office at (702) 270-4600. We look forward to providing you with quality care tailored to your unique needs!