Gingival grafting could be the answer if your gums have begun to recede, causing pain, sensitivity, and exposed roots. Gum recession is a common condition where the gums begin to recede from the teeth, exposing the roots. It’s often a result of smoking, harsh brushing, or even genetics. No matter the reason, it can be incredibly uncomfortable. Gingival grafting is a procedure to help cover the exposed roots and restore comfort and oral health. Dr. Georgio Woo, our periodontist, is our expert on gingival grafting here at Pound Ridge Cosmetic Dentistry. He is well-versed in all techniques used in gingival grafting and can create a personalized treatment plan for correcting your specific problem. Please contact our office today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Woo for gingival grafting in Pound Ridge, NY.
What Is Gingival Grafting?
Gingival grafting is a dental procedure conducted by a periodontist in which the exposed roots and tooth are covered using tissue from other mouth areas. Once this heals, your gums will appear as usual, tooth and root covered, creating a more comfortable and healthy smile.
What Is the Procedure for Gingival Grafting?
There are several techniques for gingival grafting, and Dr. Woo will be able to assess which one is right for you during your initial consultation. On the day of your procedure, Dr. Woo will begin by applying a local anesthetic to the regions that will be receiving a tissue graft. Should you require it, there are sedation options such as nitrous oxide to make you feel more comfortable and relaxed.
Once it begins, he will remove tissue from an area inside the mouth, typically the roof of the mouth, and close it back up. Then he will place this new tissue onto the exposed tooth roots and shape them accordingly. Finally, he sutures up the area, usually with stitches that fall out on their own.
The amount of time this will take depends on the number of teeth that need to be covered. One graft usually lasts about one hour.
What to Expect for Recovery
After your procedure, you will likely experience some bleeding for the next 24 to 48 hours. We will provide you with medicine and instructions for caring for the site in the coming days.
For the first few days, you should follow all instructions and stick to cool, soft foods like yogurt, cottage cheese, and smoothies. These will ease the pain and swelling without irritating the area.
You will likely remain swollen for the first week, but you can slowly incorporate soft foods as you begin to see fit based on your healing and pain levels. However, it is highly recommended you do not eat anything hot, spicy, chewy, or hard; this will irritate the gums and cause immense pain.
When brushing, be sure to go slowly and avoid the gums. Do not begin flossing again until given the go-ahead by Dr. Woo. He will likely want to have you back for a check-up a week or so after the appointment. Continue closely following Dr. Woo’s instructions and recommendations until you fully heal.
Benefits of Gingival Grafting
Gingival grafting, while a little uncomfortable, can provide great benefits for appearance, health, and comfort, including:
- Reduced sensitivity
- Less risk of gum disease
- Reduced risk of decay
- More aesthetic smile
The advantages of partaking in this procedure far outweigh the disadvantages, making it a viable treatment option for gum recession.
Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Woo
If you’re experiencing gum recession causing pain, sensitivity, and discomfort, consider gingival grafting in Pound Ridge, NY. Dr. Woo is an expert in gingival grafting techniques and procedures and will provide you with a treatment personalized to your unique situation. Contact us today at 914-764-3540 or book an appointment online to schedule your consultation with Dr. Woo today.
