Looking to change the shape of your gum line? Or do you have receding gum line and want a more natural-looking and pleasing smile? Well, you might be a candidate for gum grafting.
At Southern Colorado Periodontics & Implants, Colorado Springs, our periodontist specializes in gum treatments. A periodontist an surgically add, shape, or remove gum tissue to achieve an esthetically, healthy smile. The procedure is simple and very safe. Patient satisfaction rates are very high.
Call us today to schedule your consultation to learn if gum grafting is right for you …
Keep reading to learn more about your gum grafting treatment options …
Gum grafting is a technique that involves adding tissue to the gums. This tissue can come from many areas. Some patients use donor tissue while others use tissue from the roof of their own mouth. Gum graft surgery can help restore lost gums and prevent loose teeth. Or you might receive gum grafting as part of a gum contouring procedure.
Gum Grafting for Gum Loss/Receding Gum Lines?
Did you know that 58 percent of adults have gum loss? If you have this incredibly common condition, you might struggle with discomfort and insecurity. However, there’s good news. Gum loss might not reverse itself naturally, but your situation isn’t hopeless. A gum graft can restore lost tissue and help you stay healthy.
What Is Gum Grafting?
Gum grafting is a procedure used to add more tissue to the gums. Unlike other parts of the body, your gums don’t grow naturally. If disease damages them, you have to replace the missing gum to heal the area. This replacement tissue can come from the roof of your own mouth, other parts of your gums, or from a deceased donor.
During the surgery, your doctor will carefully attach the new tissue to your gums. Over time, your gums will bind with and absorb this tissue. The connective tissue graft then effectively adds extra gum around your tooth. This extra tissue helps hold teeth in place.
How to Tell if You Need a Gum Grafting Procedure
There’s all sorts of reasons to need a gum graft procedure. Your doctor might suggest it for any situation where you don’t have enough gums. Some reasons to get grafting include:
- You have gum disease that caused gum recession.
- Your gums are so receded your teeth are loose.
- Your teeth look too long due to lack of gum tissue.
- You’ve had an injury that damaged your gums.
- Your gum line is uneven due to random receded spots.
The Benefits and Risks
Gum grafting comes with many perks, including:
- Grafts can prevent future recession.
- Covering exposed teeth will protect them from decay.
- Grafts may improve the look of your smile.
- Grafting will stabilize your tooth.
- You’ll be less likely to have tooth sensitivity.
- Grafting can reduce bone loss risks.
However, you should be aware of these potential risks.
- Some people can get infections after the surgery.
- There is a rare chance of your body rejecting the graft. You’ll have to get a second graft if this happens.
- If you don’t get contouring, the graft might look oddly shaped.
- You will need to eat soft foods and avoid brushing the area for a week or two.
How Much Does Gum Grafting Cost?
The gum repair surgery cost varies based on how much work you need. On the national average, each tooth that needs grafting will cost $600 to $1,200. It is usually cheaper if you get harvested tissue from your own mouth. Paying for donor tissue causes extra fees. It might also cost more if you need contouring alongside the grafting.
Insurance can help with these costs. In cases where grafting stabilizes the tooth, your dental insurance usually covers it. However, if you just want grafting for aesthetic reasons, you might have to pay out of pocket.
Does Gum Grafting Really Work?
Gum grafting is a very effective treatment. Less than two percent of patients have a failed graft. Most importantly, research finds that gum grafts directly prevent tooth loss. Additionally, they can also reduce risk of later recession and bone loss.
Patients who have had gum grafting are mostly happy with their results. A survey checked in with gum grafting patients after 10 years. They found that roughly 87 percent of patients were happy. Patients reported that they had minimal pain and improved oral health.
Reasons to See a Periodontist
A regular dentist or an oral surgeon can technically do a gum graft. However, they usually refer their patients to a periodontist for a gum graft. A periodontist is a specialist that focuses on the gums. They have years of extra training and experience. Therefore, they have the expertise needed for this delicate procedure.
If you’re looking for a periodontist in the Colorado Springs Area, we’re here to help! At Southern Colorado Periodontics & Implants, you can get expert gum care. In addition to grafts, we also provide help with implants, deep cleaning, and other periodontal treatments. Contact us now to schedule your consultation.
