Periodontal and Implant Associates, Inc.

Gum Graft

A gum graft, which is also called a gingival graft or periodontal plastic surgery, is a categorical reference for several surgical periodontal procedures which is performed to cover an exposed tooth root surface with grafted oral tissue.

A gum graft can be an assortment of simple surgical procedures that, when performed, thicken your gums or cover an exposed tooth root surface to put a stop to further gum recession. There are several causes for exposed tooth roots, but the most frequent is gum disease. It can also be the result of your aggressive tooth brushing at home.

Beginning with your very first visit with Periodontal and Implants Associates, Inc., our entire dental team is committed to establishing a relationship with you, acknowledging your unique individual needs, and striving effortlessly to provide personalized oral health care to meet your goals.

We focus on creating the ultimate stress-free and comfortable dental experience. Your health and comfort are our top priorities, and we will do what is necessary to help you understand your symptoms and your treatment options in a relaxed environment. Call Periodontal and Implant Associates, Inc. at (256) 734-8588 with any questions or to make an appointment for a gum graft evaluation.

In addition to improving the healthy look of your smile, having a gum graft performed can also protect your teeth from the negative effects associated with gum recession. Exposed tooth roots are often the result of gingival recession from gum disease. There are other common causes, such as unscheduled trauma.

Are You a Candidate for Gum Grafting?

Although a gum graft sounds like an intimidating procedure, with the innovative advances in both techniques and materials we have at Periodontal and Implant Associates, Inc., it can be easy, quick, and painless. There are several benefits associated with having the treatment performed. After your gum graft, you will begin to enjoy:

Reduced Tooth Sensitivity

Since your gum graft will now cover the sensitive exposed tooth root, you will immediately notice that your teeth are less sensitive to both hot and cold.

Improved Aesthetic Appearance

If you have gum recession, you could feel self-conscious about your smile because your teeth seem to appear longer. By having a gum graft performed, your teeth will now appear shorter, more symmetrical, and more proportionate in balance, which improves the overall perception of your smile.

Better Gum Health

The primary benefit associated with having a gum graft is that you can stymie the progression of gum disease. A simple gum graft could play a critical role in avoiding future bone loss or even a tooth extraction.

The Common Types of Gum Grafting

Periodontal and Implant Associates, Inc. offers four distinctly different gum grafts that can be performed depending on your specific needs:

Allograft

An allograft is an alternative graft material that is not harvested from yourself. The graft material is from donated human tissue that has been processed to bleach out DNA. You will experience less pain with an allograft because you will not have tissue removed from your palate.

Free Gingival Grafts

A free gingival graft uses tissue from the roof of your mouth, or palate. An incredibly small portion of tissue is removed from your palate and attached to the affected gum area. This procedure is quite effective if you have thin gums and require more tissue to make the gum area coverage larger.

Connective-tissue Grafts

This kind of gum graft treatment is beneficial if you have exposed roots. Periodontal and Implant Associates, Inc. will open a flap of skin on the roof of your mouth, remove connective tissue from beneath the flap, and then suture the connective tissue to the gum tissue that surrounds the exposed root. After the tissue is removed, the flap on the roof of the mouth is also sutured closed.

Pedicle Grafts

In a situation where you have sufficient gum tissue next to the affected tooth, a graft can be created by using this excessive gum rather than other tissue. The flap of gum tissue is partially cut with a portion remaining attached to the gumline. The gum is then stretched to cover the area where the root is exposed. The tissue is then sewn into place.

Gum Grafting Post Procedure

To encourage a healthy recovery, it is crucial to follow the post-procedure instructions from Periodontal and Implant Associates, Inc.. We will advise you to avoid hard foods for a few weeks following your gum graft and to avoid foods or drinks that are extremely hot or cold. We may also prescribe pain medication or antibiotics to help ward off any infection, to accelerate your recovery process, and to minimize any discomfort you may experience. If you follow our advice, your gum graft will heal within two weeks.

The most important thing you can do following your successful gum graft is to continue to practice good oral hygiene habits at home. Brush your teeth twice daily and for at least two minutes each time. Also, continue flossing once a day. We may also recommend antimicrobial mouth rinses.

To complement your important oral hygiene habits and to continue to enjoy a healthy smile, be sure to continue with regular visits to Periodontal and Implant Associates, Inc. every six months. During these routine exams, we will perform professional teeth cleaning and monitor the condition of your oral health, practicing prevention and identifying issues before they develop.

We Change Lives One Smile at a Time

It is our mission at Periodontal and Implant Associates, Inc. to educate and provide every patient with the best periodontal and dental care found in Alabama. The attention to detail by our entire dental team achieves quality and successful dental results with healthy and beautiful smiles for all patients. We collaborate to realize a shared vision of excellence. We are committed to:

  • Listening to those we have the opportunity to serve.
  • Earn the trust and respect of every patient, profession, and community.
  • Exceeding your expectations.
  • Ensure a creative, challenging, and compassionate professional environment.
  • Striving for continuous improvement at all levels.

You can find Periodontal and Implant Associates, Inc. at 315 Second St. SE, Cullman, AL, 35055. Or give us a call today at (256) 734-8588.

Periodontal and Implant Associates, Inc.

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