Information on Gum Grafting

Receding gums caused by gum disease can be treated with gum grafting. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, "...your periodontologist takes tissue from your palate or another donor source to cover the exposed root."

Benefits

• Exposed tooth roots are often sensitive to hot and cold temperatures, which causes pain while eating or drinking. Gum grafting covers the roots, eliminating this problem. Gum disease can also cause bone loss and, according to the AAP, a gum graft "can reduce further recession and bone loss."

Procedure

• A local anesthetic numbs the affected area. The doctor removes tissue from your palate (roof of the mouth) or uses donor tissue. The doctor then sutures the tissue to your gums.

Surgery Follow-up

• According to Dr. H. Kendall Scholes, DMD, one week later the doctor removes the stitches. An additional visit or two might be needed to check that the gums are healing properly.

Recovery

• According to Dr. Mark J. Sebastion, DMD, there are several rules you should follow for successful recovery. Use an ice pack for the first six hours after surgery to reduce swelling. Eat only soft foods and don't drink from a straw for two weeks. Do not brush the affected area for a week.

Warning

• If either the gum graft site or the tissue collection site won't quit bleeding call the doctor who performed your procedure or your general practitioner.