What Is A Gum Graft Surgery

When gum recession occurs, the roots of the teeth become exposed, which causes several health and aesthetic issues. One of the main problems is that the teeth become more sensitive to hot and cold foods and drinks.

In addition, the teeth become more prone to cavities, especially in the root area ( root caries) because the root is covered with a dentin layer which is weaker and more susceptible to decay. Faster plaque and calculus buildup also is very common when gum recession occurs, and that can affect the surrounding healthy gum tissue and cause severe inflammation. Over time, if gum recession is left untreated, it also causes bone loss around the teeth, leading to tooth mobility in the long term, and eventually, tooth loss.

A gum graft procedure is performed to avoid these complications and maintain the health of the teeth in the long term. In this procedure, we treat gum recession by covering and replacing the lost gum tissue to protect the exposed roots and restore the gum to its normal position. This procedure aims to improve the long-term health of the gums and teeth, preventing damage or teeth loss. In this article, we will discuss the different types of gingival graft procedures.

Why Do You Need A Gum Graft?

1- Gum recession, where the gum tissue wears away or pulls back and the tooth root is exposed, is the most common reason for gum grafting.

2- Mobility of the teeth If gum recession is left untreated, it can lead to further recession and loss of the bone surrounding the teeth. Over time, the teeth become loose, and eventually, this will lead to tooth loss.

3- Gum grafts might be done for aesthetic reasons because gum recession affects the appearance of the teeth and the smile. Restoring the gumline can improve the overall look and boost the patient’s confidence.

4- After periodontal treatment, where deep cleaning or treatment of advanced gum disease (periodontitis) is performed, gum grafts can help restore the gum tissue that may have been lost due to infection.

When Is It Too Late For Gum Grafting?

Usually, gum grafting can be done for most cases, but if you ignore your case and don’t check with your dentist, you may reach a point where it is too late to be treated.

Here are a few situations in which your case may not be recommended for gum grafting :

1- If there is associated prolonged gum disease, significant bone loss around the teeth will occur, and there may not be enough bone to support the gum graft, so bone grafting might be needed before the gum graft procedure.

2- In cases with advanced periodontal disease, where the gums, teeth, and surrounding bone are severely damaged because of infection, it may be too late for gum grafting, as the gums may not be able to support the grafting.

3- If there is significant tooth mobility or if the teeth already have been lost Gum grafting may not be effective. In such cases, your dentist will suggest alternative treatment options like implants or other restorative methods.

4- If there is not enough healthy tissue in the donor site (the roof of the mouth or another part of the gums) to provide the necessary material for the graft.

5- In some health conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes or for immunocompromised patients, these conditions may increase the risk of complications and can also affect the healing process after the procedure.

Gum Graft Procedure

The gum grafting procedure is performed in different ways, depending on which type of grafting will be done. There are three main types of gum grafting: connective tissue grafts, free gingival grafts, and pedicle grafts. Each one of these is suitable for specific patients according to their needs. After a free examination and assessment of the case, your dentist will decide which type will be appropriate for your case.

The following comparison will make it easier to understand each type of procedure:

• Connective Tissue Graft:
  • Description:This is performed under local anesthesia, sedation may also be an available option according to the patient’s preference. The dentist makes a flap in the roof of the mouth, then tissue is taken from under the flap. The tissue is transplanted and sutured to the affected area.
  • Ideal For: Patients needing gum regrowth and coverage for exposed roots.
• Free Gingival Graft:
  • Description: In this type, no flap is needed. The tissue is directly taken from the roof of the mouth and then sutured to the affected area.
  • Ideal For: Patients with thin gums who need additional gum thickness.
• Pedicle Graft:
  • Description: Gum tissue adjacent to the recessed area is partially cut and slid over to cover the exposed roots.
  • Ideal For:Patients with sufficient healthy gum tissue near the affected area.

Gum Graft surgery Recovery

How Long Is Recovery From A Gum Graft surgery?

• The recovery process after a gum graft lasts 1 to 2 weeks, depending on the individual and the type of graft performed. Full healing, including gum stabilization, may take up to 4 to 8 weeks.
• During your recovery period, You have to follow your dentist’s post-operative instructions to maintain your oral health and hygiene so you can avoid complications after surgery.
• Also, remember smoking and alcohol are completely prohibited till you have full recovery as they can delay healing and put you at high risk of infection.
• Make sure you don’t miss your follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing.

Gum Graft Recovery Timeline

• The first day after the surgery:
  The patient may experience mild to moderate pain and discomfort at the grafted area as well as the donor site. Light bleeding and swelling are also normal. Using pain relief and anti-inflammatory medications as prescribed by your dentist will help manage these issues.
• 2-3 Days
  During this period, the swelling may increase slightly. Don’t panic if that happens; it is a normal reaction. Sensitivity in the teeth near the grafted area may also occur. In this phase, cold compresses will be helpful to reduce the swelling, and you will need to stick to a soft food diet, such as yogurt, soup, or mashed potatoes.
• 4-7 Days
  The swelling begins to subside gradually, the pain reduces significantly, and you will start to feel more comfortable. A thin white layer or membrane may appear on the grafted tissue, which is a normal part of the healing process. Don’t try to swab it away, and avoid brushing directly on the grafted area during this period.
• 2 Weeks
  The grafted tissue should start to integrate with the surrounding gum tissue by now. At this time, you can gradually start eating semi-solid foods, but hard, sticky, crunchy, or spicy foods should still be avoided. If your stitches are dissolvable, they may begin to fall out naturally during this time.
• After 2 weeks
  Now you will notice significant improvement in the appearance and stability of your gums. You should see your dentist by now so they can assess the healing progress and make sure there are no complications. If everything is going well, you can return to your normal eating habits.

How Much Is A Gum Graft Cost?

Dental processes are considered very expensive in most countries, and patients usually look for high-quality dental care accompanied by affordable prices, which seems like a difficult goal to achieve. At the time, the gum graft procedure cost ranges from $600 to $1,200 per tooth in the United States, and costs between £500 and £1,000 per tooth in the UK, In Turkey, you can have this procedure with prices ranging from $150 to $200. In addition to the cost savings, Turkey provides high-quality dental care with skilled professionals, modern clinics, and the added benefit of exploring its rich history and culture.

What Are The Disadvantages, Side Effects, And Complications Of Gum Grafting?

• Infection
  There is a risk of infection during the gum graft procedure, as with any surgery. Following your dentist’s oral hygiene instructions will minimize this risk.
• Bleeding
  Light bleeding for the first 2 days after the surgery is very normal, but if the bleeding persists or becomes severe, you may need to call your dentist, as it could be a sign of a complication.
• Graft failure
  The grafted tissue may not integrate properly with the existing gum tissue. This could happen in some cases due to various reasons like insufficient blood supply, excessive movement, or failure to maintain proper oral hygiene during recovery.
• Nerve Damage
  It is a very rare complication of this procedure. It can occur if the site of surgery is near sensitive nerves. Any damage to these nerves during the surgery will result in numbness or altered sensation in the mouth.
• Scars or Irregular Gum Line
  Improving the appearance of the gingival tissue is considered one of the goals of the gum grafting procedure, but having an uneven gum line or visible scarring as a final result after the surgery is still one of the complications that could happen in some rare cases.

What Is The Success Rate Of A Gum Graft?

Some studies show that the gum grafting procedure has a very high success rate, ranging from 85% to 95%. Of course, there are several factors that can affect the success of the procedure, such as the patient’s overall health, the type of gum graft procedure performed, and the level of care taken during the recovery process.

Gum Graft Failure

Why Do Gum Grafts Fail?

There are several factors that can affect the gum graft procedure and lead to failure. Poor blood supply to the grafted tissue, infection, and excessive movement of the graft are very common reasons for gum graft failure. Some factors can be avoided if the patient adheres to post-operative instructions. Smoking, drinking alcohol, poor oral hygiene, and failure to follow feating instructions can contribute to graft failure. In some cases, the patient’s body may reject the graft tissue, and it couldn’t integrate with the surrounding tissue.

What Are The Symptoms Of A Failed Gum Graft?

You should be aware of the symptoms of gum graft failure, so if you notice any of them, it is very important to contact your dentist immediately. These symptoms include severe and persistent pain at the grafted area or at the donor site. Excessive swelling that lasts for more than a week, unusual discoloration or lack of integration of the grafted tissue, and signs of infection (such as pus or a bad odor).

Gum Graft FAQs