Gum Grafting - Arlington, TX

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Treat Recession & Sensitivity With Gum Grafting

Gum recession, a prevalent oral health issue, involves the deterioration of the gums’ soft tissue. Left untreated, it can lead to the exposure of sensitive tooth and root structures, ultimately resulting in tooth and bone loss. Beyond the pain it causes, gum recession limits food choices and affects the appearance of your smile by making teeth look elongated and discolored.

At DFW Implant Center in Arlington, TX, our specialized team, led by experienced periodontist Dr. Farhad E. Boltchi, employs advanced technological approaches to gum grafting. With over 25 years of expertise, Dr. Boltchi skillfully restores even advanced stages of gum recession. New patients can call 817-663-4704 while returning patients can reach us at 817-467-7731 to schedule an appointment and regain a healthy, natural gum line.

If you have bleeding gums in Arlington, TX reach out to our experienced team at DFW Implant Center, we can help.

What is Gum Grafting?

Gum grafting, also known as soft tissue augmentation and gingival grafting, is a procedure aimed at treating gum recession, a condition where the soft tissue of the gums starts to recede, exposing tooth and root surfaces. This recession can lead to increased sensitivity and discomfort, and, if left untreated, may result in tooth and bone loss.

During a gum graft procedure, our periodontist takes a small piece of tissue, often from the patient’s palate or a donor source, and grafts it onto the affected area of the gums. This helps to rebuild and restore the gum tissue, covering exposed tooth roots.

Types of Gum Grafting

The three main types of gum grafting techniques include:

Connective Tissue Graft: This involves taking a small piece of tissue from underneath the surface of the palate and grafting it onto the affected area, covering exposed tooth roots.
Free Gingival Graft: Similar to the connective tissue graft, this technique uses tissue directly from the palate’s surface to augment the gum tissue.
Pedicle Graft: In this approach, the graft is created using adjacent gum tissue, rather than taking tissue from the palate. This technique suits individuals with sufficient gum tissue near the affected area.

Benefits of Gum Grafting

Gingival grafting offers several benefits in addressing gum recession and related oral health issues:

Reduced Sensitivity: Gingival grafting helps cover exposed tooth roots, reducing sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures and improving comfort.
Prevention of Further Recession: By restoring and strengthening the gum tissue, grafting prevents ongoing recession, protecting teeth from potential damage and decay.
Improved Aesthetics: Soft tissue augmentation enhances the appearance of the smile by creating a more even and natural gum line, addressing issues like elongated or discolored teeth caused by recession.
Preservation of Tooth and Bone Structure: The procedure helps maintain the integrity of the teeth and underlying bone, preventing potential tooth loss and supporting oral health.
Enhanced Oral Health: Gum grafting contributes to better oral hygiene by reducing the risk of plaque and bacteria accumulation in areas with receding gums.
Increased Comfort During Eating: Restoring gum tissue through grafting allows individuals to enjoy a wider range of foods without discomfort, positively impacting their diet and nutrition.
Boosted Self-Confidence: Improving the aesthetics of the smile can have a positive impact on self-esteem and confidence, allowing individuals to smile more freely.
Long-Term Results: Soft tissue augmentation is a durable and long-lasting solution that provides lasting benefits, promoting oral health for years.

Who Qualifies for Gum Grafting?

Individuals who may qualify for gum grafting typically include those experiencing gum recession and related issues. The procedure is often recommended for:

Gum Recession: Individuals with receding gums, where the soft tissue has pulled away from the teeth, exposing tooth roots.
Tooth Sensitivity: People experiencing heightened sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures due to exposed tooth roots resulting from gum recession.
Cosmetic Concerns: Those with aesthetic concerns such as elongated or discolored teeth caused by gum recession may benefit from gingival grafting to improve the smile’s appearance.
Prevention of Further Recession: Individuals at risk of ongoing gum recession, which could lead to complications like tooth and bone loss.
Periodontal Health Issues: Patients with periodontal (gum) disease or a history of gum-related problems may be candidates for gingival grafting to address associated complications.
Dental Restorations: Individuals requiring dental restorations, such as dental implants, crowns, or veneers, in areas with gum recession may undergo gingival grafting to ensure proper support for these restorations.

Dr. Boltchi will determine if you’re a candidate for gum grafting during your initial consultation.

The Gum Grafting Process

Consultation for Gum Grafting

Before undergoing your gum grafting surgery, you’ll have a consultation with Dr. Boltchi. During this appointment, Dr. Boltchi will assess your oral health, examine the extent of gum recession, discuss your concerns, and determine if gum grafting is the appropriate solution for your needs. This is also an excellent opportunity to ask questions and understand the details of the procedure.

Preparation

On the day of the gum grafting procedure, we’ll administer a local anesthetic to numb the treatment area, ensuring a pain-free experience. Depending on the complexity of the case and your preference, sedation dentistry options may also be discussed to enhance relaxation during the procedure.

Gum Grafting

Once you’re comfortable and adequately numbed, the gum grafting procedure begins. Dr. Boltchi will graft the tissue in place using one of the techniques previously mentioned.

Gum Grafting Aftercare

After undergoing gum grafting, diligent aftercare is crucial for a successful recovery. Follow these guidelines from Dr. Boltchi and our team to promote healing and optimize the results of the gum graft and procedure:

Post-Operative Care Instructions: Adhere strictly to any post-operative instructions provided by Dr. Boltchi. This may include guidance on oral hygiene, dietary restrictions, and recommended medications.
Managing Discomfort: Expect some discomfort and swelling, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications as recommended by your dental professional.
Apply ice packs to the treated area in intervals to minimize swelling.
Oral Hygiene: Practice good oral hygiene, but avoid brushing or flossing directly around the treated area for the initial healing period. Use a prescribed antimicrobial or saltwater solution for gentle rinsing, as advised.
Diet Modification: Follow a soft or liquid diet initially, gradually reintroducing solid foods as comfort allows. Avoid hot, spicy, or acidic foods as they may irritate the healing gums.
Physical Activity: Limit strenuous physical activities for the first few days to minimize bleeding and support the healing process.
Follow-Up Appointments: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your dental professional for evaluations and necessary adjustments.
Communicate any concerns or unusual symptoms promptly.
Monitor Healing Progress: Keep an eye on the healing progress, looking for signs of infection such as increased redness, swelling, or persistent pain. Contact DFW Implant Center immediately if you experience any unexpected issues.
Resume Normal Oral Care Gradually: Gradually reintroduce regular brushing and flossing once advised by your dental professional, taking care not to disturb the treated area.
Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Eat a balanced diet rich in nutrients to support healing. Avoid tobacco and limit alcohol consumption, as they can hinder the healing process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is gum grafting a painful procedure?

The procedure is performed under local anesthesia to ensure the patient’s comfort. Post-operatively, some discomfort is expected, but it can be managed with prescribed or over-the-counter pain medications.

Is gum grafting covered by insurance?

In some cases, insurance may cover the procedure if it is deemed medically necessary, such as for addressing issues like gum disease or preventing further oral health complications. However, if the procedure is primarily for cosmetic reasons, insurance may not provide coverage. It’s essential to check with your insurance provider and consult with your periodontist to understand the specifics of your coverage and explore potential financing options for the dental procedure.

How long does the gum grafting procedure take?

The duration varies depending on factors such as the extent of gum recession and the chosen grafting technique. Generally, it can take anywhere from one to two hours. Your periodontist will give you a more accurate breakdown of the time for the procedure during your consultation.

Will there be visible scarring after gum grafting?

Periodontists employ precise techniques to minimize scarring. In many cases, any residual scarring is typically minor and not easily noticeable. Your periodontist can provide guidance based on your specific case.

Elevate Your Smile with Expert Gum Care at DFW Implant Center

Take the pivotal first step towards a healthier, more confident smile by scheduling a consultation with Dr. Boltchi at DFW Implant Center. Entrust your gum health to our seasoned periodontist, who brings over 25 years of expertise and advanced techniques to provide unparalleled care.

Whether you’re a new patient ready for transformative care or a returning patient continuing your path to lasting confidence, call 817-663-4704 if you’re a new patient or 817-467-7731 if you’re current. Your journey to a revitalized and radiant smile begins now. DFW Implant Center serves Arlington and surrounding areas such as Irving, Fort Worth, and Grapevine, TX.

Stop your receding gum line … for good!

Call DFW Implant Center today to schedule a gum grafting consultation.

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