Things to Consider Before A Gum Graft

Young women covering her mouth with her hands

If your gums are receding, a gum graft may be something that you are considering. Gum recession exposes the roots of your teeth. This increases the likelihood of decay, sensitivity, and being prone to abrasion.

What To Expect With A Gum Graft

During a gum graft, the dentist removes tissue from the roof of your mouth or from the healthy gum tissue. Then the tissue is attached to the area where your gums have worn away.

There are steps you need to take when preparing for a gum graft. There are three types of grafts: free gingival graft, connective tissue graft, and pedicle (lateral) graft. These options will be discussed and recommendations made, based on your needs by your Boston Periodontist. Some things to keep in mind before your gum graft include:

  • There is no need to fast or change your diet on the day before or the day of the procedure. Just show up.
  • You will need to arrange a ride to and from your appointment. The dentist will provide you with medication for pain and discomfort that may make it unsafe for you to drive.
  • Local anesthesia numbs the area of the procedure.
  • The procedure usually doesn’t take long.
  • Discussion of care will follow the procedure to make sure it heals completely.

If gum grafting in Boston is something you are interested in, please schedule an appointment with us today. Our experienced team of dentists are ready to help you make the decision for gum grafting or give you other options.

Pinhole Surgical Technique

If something less invasive is what you are looking for to help with receding gums, the Pinhole Surgical Technique may be what you are looking for. The treatment takes one visit and patients typically need only over-the-counter pain medicine for the minor discomfort they may feel post-treatment.

The dentist will clean and prepare the affected teeth. Then the dentist will numb the gum tissue with a local anesthetic. A small entry point is made in the gum above the tooth or teeth that need to be treated.

Next, a specialized instrument frees the gum tissues at the entry point and gently moves the gums down to their proper position.

A small angled instrument helps to pass collagen strips or gum graft material through the entry point and place them under the gums. The Pinhole Surgical Technique is beneficial to the individual by improving their level of comfort, speeding up procedure time, and providing instant results.

If the Pinhole Surgical Technique in Boston sounds like something that would benefit you, our team at Dental Partners of Boston is ready to help you feel confident in your smile again. Schedule an appointment today.

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