How to Get a Gum Graft

Gum grafts sound more serious and painful than they actually are, although they treat the very serious condition of gum recession. The condition causes no pain, but because gums cannot grow back, a graft will cover the exposed area. Results include an improved smile and decreased tooth sensitivity. Read this article to know how to prepare and care for a dental graft.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Prepare for the Graft

1. Know which medical situations necessitate a graft. The most common conditions include receding or thinning gums that expose too much tooth, uneven gum tissue, root exposure and sensitivity. Each situation creates an unsightly smile and increases the risk of cavities and root gouging.
2. Distinguish between the two kinds of dental grafts. The free gingival graft (FGG) takes donor tissue from the roof of the mouth and attaches it to the existing gum line where it will grow to adhere. Dentists perform this procedure easily and most often. It also heals quickly.
3. Understand that a connective tissue graft (CTG) takes longer to administer, requires better surgical skills and is used in more serious cases to cover exposed roots. Healing takes longer and may require follow-up laser reshaping.

Care for the Graft

4. Take pain medication as prescribed before leaving the dental office or as soon as you get home because the anesthesia will wear off quickly.
5. Wear a stent if directed by the dentist. A stent is like a retainer coated with ointment that protects the roof of mouth (where donor tissue was excised) and assists healing. Wear the stent as long as needed, but wash it daily with soap and water and reapply ointment for the first three days.
6. Refrain from spitting, rinsing, drinking with a straw or eating crunchy sharp-edged foods for 24 hours after the dental graft. Failure to abide this rule could increase bleeding and delay healing.
7. Get plenty of rest for the first 24 hours. Avoid physical activity and lay down with your head elevated.
8. Keep the affected area clean with a Q-tip and antibacterial rinse provided by the dental office. Do not brush or floss at the site until given permissions by your dentist.

Tips & Warnings

• A gum graft is a common procedure for many dental patients.
• Most dental insurance plans cover a significant portion of the procedure.
• Your dentist will administer a local anesthetic prior to the procedure.