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How Do I Prepare for a Gum Graft?

B. Chisholm
B. Chisholm

Steps taken to prepare for a gum graft include having good oral hygiene, stopping smoking and, in some cases, stopping blood-thinning agents for a brief period. This, however, depends on the reason for the blood-thinning agent and the specific surgery being performed, and should be discussed with both the doctor performing the surgery and the prescribing doctor well in advance of the procedure. Gum graft surgery is done on people with receding gums to replace the gum.

Receding gums may occur due to a number of factors, including genetics and aging. Aggressive brushing may also be a cause, and poor oral hygiene may allow enzymes to eat away the gums. Chewing tobacco and eating disorders such as bulimia may also cause receding gums. Regardless of the cause, gum graft surgery may be an option, as it allows for a reduced risk of further dental caries and bone loss, stops sensitivity and is cosmetically pleasing.

Eating disorders such as bulimia may cause receding gums.
Eating disorders such as bulimia may cause receding gums.

Gum graft surgery is performed by either a periodontist or general dentist who has been trained. It is usually performed in the dentist's room under local anesthetic. A mild sedative may be given to minimize anxiety and discomfort during the procedure. Someone should be available to drive the patient home after the procedure, as he may be drowsy.

Before a gum graft is performed, the different options for the procedure should be discussed with the dentist. There are two ways in which it may be performed. The patient's own tissue may be cut from the palate and stitched, or grafted, to the gum, or donor tissue may be used. The advantages and disadvantages of each type should be discussed. Any current medication and allergies should also be mentioned.

Maintaining good oral hygiene is important when preparing for a gum graft.
Maintaining good oral hygiene is important when preparing for a gum graft.

After a gum graft, it is recommended that the patient rest for at least 24 hours, with the head slightly raised. During this period, hard foods should be avoided. A stent or guard may be given to those who have used tissue from their palate for the graft. This will protect the palate while it is healing.

Mild analgesic drugs may be given after the procedure, as the patient may experience some pain. Antibacterial mouthwash may also be given. The dentist who performed the surgery will advise the patient as to when normal flossing and brushing of the teeth may be resumed. Only the mouthwash or rinse may be used until the graft has healed to prevent bleeding or damage to the healing graft.

Discussion Comments

lonelygod

@Mae82 - I am sorry to hear that your sister may need gum grafting. It isn't a very pleasant experience. I got the short end of the genetic stick myself and had to have it done a few years back.

As far as the cost of gum grafting you are looking at around $1,200 USD for one tooth if it is really bad. If it is a minor graft, maybe $200 USD. It really depends on your insurance and exactly what needs to be done. As for the healing process, it is about a week of awkward careful eating and brushing before you start to get well enough to eat things normally again.

Mae82

Does anyone know the how much gum grafting costs? Also, how long does gum graft healing take?

My sister has struggled with bulimia for years and her teeth are really paying the consequences. Her dentist told her that she will need gum graft surgery soon but she left before she could get any additional information. I guess she was really upset about the idea.

I think that dental gum grafting sounds a bit scary myself but if she needs it done I think we really need to do it. I can only imagine what would happen if she just left it alone.

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    • Eating disorders such as bulimia may cause receding gums.
      By: Sylvie Bouchard
      Eating disorders such as bulimia may cause receding gums.
    • Maintaining good oral hygiene is important when preparing for a gum graft.
      By: GVictoria
      Maintaining good oral hygiene is important when preparing for a gum graft.
    • Gum grafts are typically a single-day procedure performed in an oral surgeon's suite.
      By: Vladimir Melnik
      Gum grafts are typically a single-day procedure performed in an oral surgeon's suite.
    • People who brush their teeth aggressively may experience receding gums.
      By: CandyBox Images
      People who brush their teeth aggressively may experience receding gums.
    • Gum graft surgery is used to address gum recession and tooth loss.
      By: Igor Gromoff
      Gum graft surgery is used to address gum recession and tooth loss.
    • Mild to moderate pain may occur after a patient undergoes a gum graft.
      By: Igor Mojzes
      Mild to moderate pain may occur after a patient undergoes a gum graft.
    • A patient may recieve antibacterial mouthwash after having a gum graft.
      By: theartofphoto
      A patient may recieve antibacterial mouthwash after having a gum graft.