Are you looking to change the shape of your gum line? Or do you have a receding gum line and want a more natural-looking and pleasing smile? You may be a candidate for gum grafting at Southern Colorado Periodontics & Implants (SoCO Perio) in Colorado Springs.
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. You might also receive gum grafting as part of a gum contouring procedure.
Our periodontist, Dr. Tullis, specializes in gum treatments at Southern Colorado Periodontics & Implants in Colorado Springs. A periodontist can surgically add, shape, or remove gum tissue to achieve an esthetically healthy smile. The procedure is simple and very safe, with patient satisfaction rates being exceptionally high.
Call us today to schedule your consultation at SoCO Perio today to learn if a gum graft is right for you:
What is gum grafting?
The fact is that 58% of adults will experience gum loss in their lifetime. Fortunately, gum grafting is a safe and effective procedure used to restore and add more tissue to the gums. Unlike other parts of the body, your gums don’t grow naturally. You must replace the missing gum to heal the area if the disease damages it. This replacement tissue can come from the roof of your mouth, other parts of your gums, or from a deceased donor.
Your doctor will carefully attach the new tissue to your gums during the surgery. 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.
When is a gum graft needed?
There are various reasons to undergo a gum graft procedure. Your doctor might suggest it for any situation where you don’t have enough gum. Some reasons to get grafting include:
- You have gum disease that causes gum recession.
- Your gums are so receded that your teeth are loose.
- Your teeth look too long due to a 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 recessions.
- 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 must eat soft foods and avoid brushing the area for a week or two.
How much does gum grafting cost?
The cost of gum repair surgery varies depending on the extent of the work required. On the national average, each tooth that requires grafting will cost between $600 and $1,200. It is usually less expensive to obtain harvested tissue from your mouth. Paying for donor tissue incurs extra fees. It may also be more costly if you require contouring in addition to the grafting.
Insurance can help with these costs. In cases where grafting stabilizes the tooth, your dental insurance typically covers the procedure. However, you may need to pay out of pocket if you opt for grafting for aesthetic reasons.
Does gum grafting work?
Gum grafting is a very effective treatment. Less than 2% of patients experience a failed graft. Most importantly, research has found that gum grafts can directly prevent tooth loss. They can also reduce the risk of later recession and bone loss.
Patients who have undergone gum grafting are generally satisfied with their results. A survey checked in with gum grafting patients 10 years after the procedure. They found that roughly 87% of patients were happy. Patients reported minimal pain and an improvement in oral health.
Reference: aap.onlinelibrary.wiley.com
Reasons to see a periodontist
A regular dentist or an oral surgeon can technically perform a gum graft. However, they usually refer their patients to a periodontist. A periodontist is a specialist who focuses on the health of the gums. They have years of additional training and experience, which provides them with the expertise necessary for this delicate procedure.
If you’re looking for a periodontist in the Colorado Springs Area, we’re here to help! At SoCO Perio, you can get expert gum care. In addition to grafts, we help with implants, deep cleaning, and other periodontal treatments. Contact us now to schedule your consultation.