Gum Grafts
Reverse Years Of Damage
Reveal a Healthier Gumline With Gum Grafts in Pasco
A gum graft is an oral surgery procedure that restores gum tissue lost to recession. The procedure will cover exposed tooth roots, rebuild a healthy gumline, and minimize sensitivity. Because your gum tissue can't restore itself, you may need to visit Dr. Leavens at Dental West for gum grafts in Pasco. You'll leave with a restored gumline that improves your smile's appearance and overall health.
Dr. Leavens uses gentle but precise surgical techniques to perform the graft. He ensures your dental health is in order before proceeding, as your restored gumline needs a strong foundation. He will restore the tissue that recession has taken. You'll leave knowing your smile is in top health again. If you feel nervous, ask about our oral sedation. It will keep you comfortable throughout the procedure.
Common Questions About Gum Grafts
Q What is a gum graft?
A gum graft is an oral surgery procedure that restores gum tissue lost to recession. Your dentist places new tissue, either from another area of your mouth or donor tissue, at the site where the gumline has pulled back. Gum grafts are performed as part of a comprehensive approach to periodontal health.
Q What causes gum recession?
Gum recession develops for several reasons, including periodontal disease, aggressive brushing, poor oral hygiene, hormonal changes, and trauma or injury to the gum tissue. Identifying the underlying cause of your recession is an important part of treatment planning. Your dentist address the source of the problem to ensure your graft heals and integrates properly.
Q How do I know if I need a gum graft?
You may need a gum graft if you have visibly exposed tooth roots, increasing sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks, a gumline that pulls away from your teeth, or recession that has been progressing over time. Your dentist will check for signs of tissue loss at every routine exam. They will recommend a graft when conservative treatment is no longer sufficient to protect your teeth and roots.
Q Can gum recession come back after a gum graft?
Gum recession can recur after a gum graft if the underlying cause isn't addressed. A gum graft restores the tissue that recession has taken. However, if the factors that caused the recession continue, new tissue loss can develop over time. Your dentist takes the cause of your recession seriously during the planning process. Consistent preventive care after your graft is the most effective way to protect your results in the long term.
Q How long do gum graft results last?
Gum graft results are designed to be long-lasting. With consistent care, your restored tissue can become a durable part of your natural gumline. How long your results last depends largely on whether the underlying cause of your recession is addressed and managed going forward. With consistent oral hygiene, routine cleanings and exams, and avoiding habits like aggressive brushing, you can maintain your graft results long-term.
Q Does a gum graft hurt?
A gum graft does not hurt during the procedure. Local anesthesia is administered before surgery begins. Oral sedation is available if you feel anxious about the procedure. You may experience mild soreness and swelling in the days following your graft. However, that will fade over time.
Q Where does the gum graft tissue come from?
The tissue used in a gum graft can come from several sources. A graft may use tissue taken from the roof of your own mouth, donor tissue from a tissue bank, or processed tissue material. The source depends on what your dentist determines will produce the best outcome for your needs.
Q How long does it take to recover from a gum graft?
You can expect to recover from a gum graft within one to two weeks for the initial healing phase. Complete tissue integration takes longer. The grafted material bonds with your existing gum tissue over the following weeks and months. Our team monitors your healing at follow-up visits. We'll let you know when integration is progressing as expected.
