At what point do you need a gum graft?

Receding gums can expose teeth roots and provide room for bacteria to grow. A graft protects the roots and makes bacteria easier to manage. You should get a gum graft if you have pain from receding gums. It may take some time to recover, but once you have, you can expect long-term success.

When do you know if you need a gum graft?

In many cases, a surgeon will recommend a gum graft if the gums are overly thin and weak, even if they haven't drooped. The reason is that they still may not provide the support that your teeth need to stay healthy. Thin gums are fragile, and they're more likely to recede.

Is gum graft surgery worth it?

Gum grafting is a highly safe and effective procedure; it has been tested and proven successful in treating countless cases of receding and thinning gums due to aggressive brushing and gum disease. Still, complications and infections may occur, especially without proper post-op care.

Is it ever too late for gum grafting?

And by the time you notice the intense sensitivity to hot or cold, the lengthened appearance of your teeth due to the exposed roots, or loose teeth, it is probably going to be too late for the easier solutions. That's when it becomes time for gum grafting.

What age do people get gum grafts?

As you grow older, the gum tissue that surrounds and stabilizes your teeth starts to recede or pull away. This exposes more of the tooth root, leaving it vulnerable to decay and sensitivity. About 15-20% of the patients ages 20-35 have some sort of gum recession and may require grafting.

Gum graft - Coronally advanced flap - Receding gums treatment ©

When should I be concerned about gum recession?

Receding gums are an oral health concern when they get to the point where tooth roots are exposed. It leads to a higher risk of decay, infection, and loss. Therefore, if you suspect your gums are receding, or a dental professional has brought it up to you, it's time to seek treatment.

How painful is a gum graft?

Gum grafting procedure pain

The actual gum grafting procedure is painless. This is because a local anesthetic is used to numb the affected area. A periodontist, who is a dental specialist in gum disease and the gums, typically performs this procedure.

How much does a gum graft cost?

Cost of Gum Graft Surgery

A couple of things can affect the overall cost of your gum surgery. The base cost of a gum graft can be between $600 and $1200 per tooth. A periodontist is a specialist so is likely to have a higher fee.

What is the success rate of gum grafting?

Recovery. The gum grafting procedure has a 90% success rate, therefore patients can feel confident the procedure will benefit them. Recovery from this procedure normally takes 4-6 weeks, during which patients will be asked not to brush or floss near the newly repaired area.

How long do gum grafts last?

No matter the type of oral procedure, proper care and maintenance are necessary to ensure results last as long as possible. With a gum graft, you can expect it to remain in place for a lifetime, but you will need to take care of your oral health on a daily basis.

Is a gum graft covered by insurance?

Gum grafting is generally covered by insurance plan; however, every patient's plan will have different levels of coverage and out of pocket expenses.

Can a dentist do anything for receding gums?

In cases of gum recession, your dentist might suggest scaling and root planing. This is a two-part procedure done by your dentist. Firstly, all the plaque and hardened tartar above and below the gum line (where the gum meets the tooth) is removed.

Why would you need a gum graft?

A gum graft may be necessary to protect your teeth from the damaging effects of gum recession, or you may choose to have one to improve the appearance of your smile. Gum recession is the process in which the tissue that surrounds the teeth pulls away from a tooth, exposing more of the tooth or the tooth's root.

Can you have false teeth with receding gums?

Yes, we can treat receding gums so that dentures can be fitted. Receding gums can be provoked by several issues, ranging from gum disease to age. Left untreated, receding gums can lead to tooth loss. Vallejo patients who need to fit dentures should address any gum recession first.

Are you awake during gum graft surgery?

During your gum graft surgery, you'll probably be awake like most people, or perhaps opt to be sedated. Most patients do not require anything more than local anesthetics to numb the area. Once the area is numb you will only feel slight applied pressure but will not feel pain or sharpness.

Do gum grafts look natural?

By adding new gum tissue with grafting, gums look even, natural, and healthy. They will also be stronger. Your patients will not only have good looking gums again, but their smile will look normal and healthy, too.

What are risks of gum grafting?

Potential complications that could occur due to the procedure include severe swelling, infections, uneven healing and loose sutures.

How much does it cost to fix receding gums?

While this can vary depending on which dentist you see, the cost of gum disease treatment can cost up to $2,000, or even more. This means that the earlier you have the condition treated, the more money you'll save. In many cases, you may need a gum tissue graft, which can cost between $1,600 and $2,000, if not more.

Can a dentist do a gum graft?

A gum graft, also known as a gingival graft, can correct receding gums. Your dentist may refer you to a periodontist, a gum specialist, for this simple surgical procedure.

How do you stop receding gums from getting worse?

One of the most important things you can do to avoid further gum recession is to brush and floss your teeth twice daily. If your gums have receded due to aggressive brushing, be mindful of the force you are applying while brushing and use a soft-bristled toothbrush.

How long is recovery from gum graft surgery?

A gum graft takes one to two weeks to heal. During this time, you'll need to follow strict instructions, including what you can and cannot eat. Your compliance with these directions can affect your outcome.

Do I need gum surgery?

Gum surgery may be necessary for anyone who is suffering from gum disease. This is a common and very serious condition. In fact, most adults will suffer from some form of gingivitis during their lifetime. The severity of the condition will determine what steps one can take to alleviate it.

How do you get a free gum graft?

Can receding gums grow back?

You Need To See A Dentist To Get Treatment For Gum Recession

In most cases, your gum tissue will not come back once you've lost it. It's gone for good. However, this doesn't mean you're completely out of luck. With the right periodontal treatment, you may be able to halt the progression of gum recession.

What happens if you don't fix receding gums?

When gum recession occurs, "pockets," or gaps, form between the teeth and gum line, making it easy for disease-causing bacteria to build up. If left untreated, the supporting tissue and bone structures of the teeth can be severely damaged, and may ultimately result in tooth loss.