Gum health is an important aspect of overall oral health, yet it’s one that is easily ignored until problems surface. Gum recession is one problem that many patients in St. Cloud experience. Gum recession can cause tooth sensitivity, a higher risk of tooth decay, and cosmetic issues. Gum grafting is an extremely successful gum recession treatment procedure that can also give you a stunning smile that you would be proud to show off. This article is a deep dive into gum grafting, which includes the causes, procedure, benefits, and recovery as advised by a dentist in St. Cloud and Sauk Rapids.
What is Gum Grafting?
Gum grafting is a surgical procedure performed to correct receded gums, also known as gingival grafting. During the procedure, a periodontist or oral surgeon removes tissue from another area of the mouth and secures it to the affected area where the gums are receded. This covers exposed tooth roots, minimizing sensitivity and giving the gum line a more aesthetic appearance.
Causes of Gum Recession
There are a variety of reasons that can contribute to gum recession:
- Periodontal Disease: The most common cause of gum recession is due to gum disease. Bacterial infections destroy gum tissue and the bone that supports the teeth, which can cause recession.
- Aggressive Brushing: If you scrub your teeth too hard or use a hard-bristled toothbrush, you can wear away the gum tissue, which will recede.
- Tobacco Use: Smoking or using other tobacco products can harm gum tissue and lead to recession.
- Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations — particularly in women — can make gums more sensitive and vulnerable to recession.
The Gum Grafting Procedure
A periodontist usually performs gum grafting. There are multiple steps in this process:
Your dentist or periodontist will perform a comprehensive assessment of your teeth and gums – typically involving X-rays – to assess the severity of gum recession and develop an appropriate treatment plan. A local anesthetic will be administered to numb the area of the body that will be undergoing the procedure. Patients with dental anxiety may also have sedation options available.
Grafting
The removed tissue is grafted with meticulous stitching on the receding gums. The surgeon places the graft and secures it in position in this manner, and it even covers the exposed roots.
Post-Operative Care
Following the procedure, you will receive care instructions that will include dietary restrictions, oral hygiene guidance, and medications to minimize discomfort and avoid infections.
Benefits of Gum Grafting
Here are some of the top advantages of gum grafting:
- Reduced Sensitivity: It helps to reduce tooth sensitivity, allowing a more comfortable experience when eating or drinking hot/cold foods and beverages.
- Improved Aesthetics: Rebuilding the biological gum line improves the esthetics of your smile, countering any aesthetic issues from gum recession.
- Prevent Further Recession: In addition to strengthening the gums, grafting can help to prevent further recession and subsequent gum and bone loss.
- Enhanced Oral Health: Maintaining strong and healthy gums is of high importance in oral health This procedure helps prevent decay and damage to tooth roots, promoting the long-term health of gums.
Gum grafting is a highly effective method of treating gum recession and returning you to the smiling, healthy-looking person you used to know. A periodontist can help with treatment options for gum recession in St. Cloud. Knowing the reasons for gum recession and how gum grafting helps is the first step in ensuring you work with your oral health professional to decrease the risk of losing your teeth. When well taken care of, gum grafting can be a long-lasting treatment that can greatly enhance your quality of life.
