Rebuild Your Healthy Gums with Soft Tissue Grafting Techniques

Gum grafting in Mississauga, Ontario, is a surgical procedure that treats receded gums. Gum grafting is available at Family Dental Care Mississauga. So, if you have gum recession, talk to our team to reclaim your healthy gums. Our office combines advanced technology with technical skills to achieve remarkable gum grafting outcomes.

Why do I need gum grafting?

Gum disease causes more than bleeding or tender gums. When left to thrive, it attacks the periodontal ligaments, causing gum tissues to pull away from teeth. When gum tissues recede, they expose the tooth roots, increasing sensitivity and the risk of decay. Gum recession can also be triggered by aggressive brushing, poor genetics, or severe teeth grinding (bruxism). Taking action early to address gum recession is crucial for safeguarding your gums and overall oral health.

Gum grafting involves transplanting healthy tissues to the areas with receded gums. The procedure involves taking healthy tissues from the roof of the mouth or other sources and using them to cover exposed roots. Gum grafting restores healthy gums and prevents tooth loss and other complications.

How is the procedure performed?

Gum grafting is an outpatient procedure that takes 60-90 minutes. After establishing the procedure is right for you, the dentist will numb your gums with local anesthesia. Patients report minimal discomfort during the procedure. However, if you are anxious about this treatment, you can request sedation dentistry for a stress-free dental experience.

There are several types of gingival grafts. The dentist will recommend the best option based on your dental needs:

  • Connective tissue graft: This is the most common type of gum graft. A small flap of tissue is removed from the roof of your mouth (palate). The dentist harvests the deeper layer of tissue beneath this flap. The gum graft is then stitched over the exposed tooth roots, and the flap on the palate is sutured back in place.
  • Free gingival graft: For this procedure, the dentist will harvest a small strip of tissue from the roof of the mouth (palate) without creating a flap. The dentist then carefully places the graft material on the needed area and stitches it into place. Free gingival grafts are best for thin gums, preventing gum recession in areas prone to recession.
  • Pedicle graft: The dentist doesn’t harvest graft material from other sources. Instead, the dentist creates a flap from the nearby tissue to cover the receded areas. This procedure is ideal for patients with plenty of gum tissue.

After placing the graft material and stitching it, we’ll put a dressing or protective material to help the gums heal properly.

What can I expect after the procedure?

After treatment, expect some swelling, tenderness, or minor bleeding. This is normal and should subside within a few days. Our dental team will give you post-op instructions to ensure a seamless recovery.

  • Pain management: We’ll prescribe over-the-counter pain medications to manage discomfort. Ice packs will also help relieve swelling.
  • Diet restrictions: We recommend a soft diet for 1-2 weeks. Avoid hard, crunchy, or spicy foods.
  • Oral hygiene: Brush and floss your teeth diligently, but avoid disturbing the surgical site.

Complete healing may take 4-8 weeks, but initial recovery typically happens within 1-2 weeks. Although gum grafting is permanent, your gums may recede again if you fail to observe optimal periodontal care.

Are you interested in grafting?

Gums are as important as your teeth. So, if you need gum grafting near Mississauga, you can trust Family Dental Care Mississauga for expert care. To get started, call (289) 813-3441 to schedule an appointment.