How Long Does It Take to Heal From Gum Grafting?

When gum disease has progressed into later stages, gum recession can occur. This will cause the gumline to shrink and the tooth roots to become exposed. At Premier Periodontics, we offer gum grafting and soft tissue grafting to improve how the gumline looks and to protect these tooth roots from tooth pain or sensitivity. Our professional periodontal team uses grafting techniques to offer this gum recession treatment. Contact one of our convenient locations in Bellevue, Everett, Kirkland, Mercer Island, Olympia, or Redmond, WA to schedule an appointment to learn more about how cosmetic periodontal treatment can help you to restore your oral health.

Causes of gum recession

Gum recession is when the margin of gum tissue that surrounds the teeth is pulled away or erodes. This exposes more of the tooth and the tooth root. When this occurs, pockets form between the teeth and the gumline, which makes it easy for harmful bacteria to build up. When left untreated, the gums become damaged, which leads to tooth loss.

Some factors that may lead to gum recession include:

• Periodontal disease: This gum infection destroys gum tissue and the jaw bone that holds the teeth in place. Ultimately, gum disease is the main cause of gum recession.

• Poor oral hygiene: A poor oral hygiene routine of regular brushing and flossing can allow plaque to turn to tartar, which can lead to gum recession. Also, brushing too hard or the wrong way can lead to enamel erosion, which can lead to gum recession too.

• Teeth grinding or clenching: Both of these habits can put too much force on the teeth, which can cause receding gums.

• Hormonal changes: Pregnancy and menopause are two instances where the gums may become more sensitive.

• Misaligned bites: When the teeth don’t come together properly, too much force is placed on the gums, which can lead to gum recession.

Ultimately, the first sign of gum recession is usually tooth sensitivity. When the gumline recedes, exposed tooth roots lack the protection needed to prevent this sensitivity. These exposed tooth roots also make you more susceptible to tooth decay or enamel abrasion when brushing. If you believe your gums are receding, it’s important to make an appointment at Premier Periodontics to discuss treatment options before your gum disease progresses to more damaging stages.

What is gum grafting?

There are different graft types that can be used during gum grafting treatment at Premier Periodontics. While it is minimally invasive, we do numb the treatment areas with local anesthesia. After you are numb, our periodontists will make a pinhole-sized opening, known as the Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique (PST).

Through this small opening in the gums, we will gently move receded gum tissue back to their desired position through this point. This will help cover any exposed roots. Also, returning the gumline to a healthier place will immediately protect at-risk surfaces from further damage. We use thin pieces of collagen between the teeth and gums to hold the new gumline in place while it heals. Minor swelling may be experienced during the first few days following gum grafting.

Gum grafting recovery

The pain and discomfort that you feel will vary depending on your oral health. You will most likely be prescribed antibiotics as a preventive measure after your oral surgery. Healing usually is quick. Most patients are fully healed in just one to two weeks. Most people do return to work the day after their procedure though.

After gum grafting, your teeth may feel more sensitive than usual. Desensitizing toothpaste or mouthwash can help with this discomfort. A liquid diet may be beneficial for the first few days following gum grafting. A follow-up appointment to check the healing process and to remove any stitches if applicable will be scheduled about a week after your procedure.

Learn more on how gum grafting can improve your oral health

Premier Periodontics performs gum grafting to help patients to repair their receding gums and to restore their oral health. This gum recession treatment successfully improves a smile. When you’re experiencing gum recession, schedule an appointment with our periodontal specialists at one of our locations in Bellevue, Everett, Kirkland, Mercer Island, Olympia, or Redmond, WA to discuss cosmetic periodontal treatment.