Gum grafting

Gums can recede due to several factors, including periodontal disease, aggressive brushing, poor oral hygiene, hormonal changes, tobacco use and genetic predisposition. Receding gums can lead to various dental issues such as tooth sensitivity, decay and aesthetic concerns.

During the recovery period after a gum graft, you may experience mild discomfort and swelling, which can be managed with prescribed pain relief medication. It's important to follow post-operative care instructions, which typically include a soft food diet, avoiding strenuous activity and maintaining gentle oral hygiene to ensure proper healing.

A gum graft aims improves dental health by covering exposed roots, reducing tooth sensitivity and preventing further gum recession. This procedure also helps with decay and plaque buildup, preserving the supporting bone structure.

The main types of gum grafting procedures include connective tissue grafts, free gingival grafts and pedicle grafts. Connective tissue grafts involve taking tissue from under the skin of the roof of your mouth and placing it over the exposed roots. Free gingival grafts involve taking tissue from the roof of your mouth and attaching it directly to the gum area. Pedicle grafts use gum tissue adjacent to the recession site to cover the exposed roots.