Gum Graft Surgery in Bellevue, WA

When gum (periodontal) disease has progressed into the advanced phases, gum recession often develops. This causes the gumline to shrink and expose the tooth roots. At Premier Periodontics, we perform gum grafting (soft tissue grafting) to rebuild the gumline for enhanced cosmetic appeal and to protect the more susceptible tooth roots against decay or damage. Using a range of grafting techniques, our board-certified periodontists can create a unique treatment plan to repair your gums. If you need gum graft surgery in Bellevue, WA, please contact our office to learn how this treatment might improve your oral health and the appearance of your smile.

Gum grafting takes existing healthy gum tissue from the mouth (or a donor source) and relocates it to an area that needs it. Gum graft surgery can be ideal for patients who experience gum recession, leaving the gum tissue to pull away from the teeth. A few benefits you may experience from this procedure can include:

• Reduced tooth sensitivity
• Safeguard against tooth decay and tooth loss
• Reduced gum recession
• Strengthens and stabilizes teeth by reinforcing gum tissue
• Enhances the smile

Receding gums can impact the aesthetic appeal of your teeth, creating an "aged" appearance, as well as their overall health. When the gumline recedes, the exposed tooth roots lack the protection they need and are at an increased risk of damage, like tooth decay and mechanical abrasion from toothbrushing. You may be a candidate for a gum graft if you have one or more of the following:

• Sensitive teeth
• Longer-looking teeth
• Teeth that look darker near the gumline
• Exposed tooth roots
• Periodontal disease

Receding gums can result from several factors, including gum disease, a misaligned bite, genetics, aggressive home care techniques, oral piercings, and teeth grinding (bruxism), among others. A consultation with our periodontal specialists can help you learn if your smile could benefit from a soft tissue graft.

There are various types of gum grafts that are used to repair specific conditions.

• Connective tissue grafts are the most common type used to cover exposed tooth roots. This approach involves creating an incision in the roof of your mouth to create a small flap of skin. Connective tissue is taken from beneath the flap and grafted to your receded gumline.
• Free gingival grafts are similar, except that tissue is used directly from the top layer of tissue on the roof of your mouth and may be ideal for repairing especially thin gums.
• Pedicle grafts utilize excess gum tissue from a nearby tooth and stretch it over exposed areas needing coverage.

During your consultation, our experts will explain your options and determine the grafting approach best suited to your needs and goals. If you are searching for specialized treatment for a gum graft in Seattle, WA, our periodontists can help.

Gum graft surgery may need to be completed in phases, depending on the number of areas in your mouth that require treatment. At the end of your procedure, we will go over your recovery instructions, including dietary restrictions and home care recommendations. You may feel some discomfort for a short time after your procedure, which might be reduced with cold compresses and nonprescription pain medication. To avoid damaging the grafts, be sure to follow our team's recommendations on brushing and flossing while your gums are healing. A follow-up appointment may be scheduled so that our periodontists can monitor your recovery.

If you carry dental insurance, a member of our staff will contact your insurer to confirm your benefits and calculate any estimated out-of-pocket costs. Premier Periodontics is pleased to provide high-quality, affordable care and will work with you to find an easy payment solution for covering your treatment costs. Be sure to ask our team about our low-interest financing option to help make your treatment fit within your budget.

How long does it take to heal from gum grafting surgery?
For patients getting a gum graft in Seattle, WA, recovery typically takes at least two weeks. Your surgical team will provide aftercare instructions to help you heal fully after your gum grafting surgery.

How long does a gum graft last?
With proper care, a gum graft can last for many years. Some gum grafting surgeries may need to be repeated to maintain the desired effect.

How effective is a gum graft?
Complications from gum grafts are very rare. For the vast majority of patients, gum grafting is an effective procedure that helps rebuild gum tissue. If you experience any troubling symptoms following your gum recession surgery, please contact our team immediately.

Gum grafting surgery is a proven gum recession treatment offered at Premier Periodontics to rebuild the gums, improve oral health, and help to make your smile more attractive. If you have gum recession due to advanced periodontal disease or other causes, schedule an appointment at our periodontal office in Bellevue, WA to learn more about the advantages of gum grafting.