How Long Does It Take Gum Grafting to Heal?
A gum tissue graft is often recommended for patients who have receding gums. In cases of gum recession, the roots of the teeth become exposed. The roots are extremely sensitive when they are exposed and can be susceptible to decay and damage.
Gum grafting or a gingival graft can help restore receding gums. In some cases, the general dentist may refer patients to a periodontist or gum specialist for the procedure. A gum graft is a relatively minor surgical procedure which is completed in an outpatient setting.
Procedure
The first step of a gum graft involves the dentist or periodontist removing a piece of tissue from the roof of the mouth or another area of the mouth which contains healthy gum tissue. The extracted tissue is then attached to the area which is receding. The procedure is fairly quick, and patients are able to leave the office immediately after. It may take some time for the local anesthesia to wear off completely.
Recovery
Following the gum grafting procedure, patients are able to go home. The dental professional may ask patients to remain at the office for an hour or two to ensure there are no issues. There may be some swelling and minor discomfort, but this should be gone within a few days.
For the first week or two following the procedure, it is critical for patients to follow restrictions provided by the dental team. To ensure the graft is not damaged, patients should focus on eating soft, cold foods. Hard, crunchy, and foods which are hot can irritate or even damage the graft. Below is a summary of soft and mild foods which are recommended during the recovery period:
- Eggs
- Cooked vegetables
- Cottage cheese
- Ice cream
- Pudding, yogurt, and Jell-O
The dentist or periodontist may suggest the use of an antimicrobial mouthwash for the first few weeks to help keep the mouth clean and prevent infection.
Restrictions
Patients should wait to brush or floss on or around the area which received grafting until they receive approval. Brushing and flossing around the grafted area before it has fully healed can damage the graft, open the wound, or result in an infection. Patients can typically manage any pain with an over-the-counter pain medication. Strenuous activities and exercise should be avoided until the doctor gives clearance to do so.
Complications
While complications of a gum graft are rare, they are possible. It is also not common for patients to have an infection after the procedure. If patients have severe pain, persistent bleeding, or oozing around the grafting site, they should follow up with the dentist right away.
One possible complication associated with gum grafting is if the graft tissue does not properly adapt to the mouth. If this occurs, the procedure may need to be repeated.
Patients should be fully healed from a gum graft in a week or two. Patients will have a follow-up appointment about a week after the procedure to ensure the graft is successful and that the mouth is healing properly.
Within about two weeks of the procedure, patients should be cleared to brush and floss. In more severe cases, it may take up to a month for the graft area to completely heal. The recovery time can vary from patient to patient depending on their overall health ability to comply with the post-procedure instructions.
Contact the office today to schedule an appointment with the dental team to determine if you may be a good candidate for gum grafting.