A periodontist will want to complete a number of treatments before performing gum grafting surgery after the need for the procedure has been established. To get rid of germs and calculus (tartar), the teeth must first be carefully cleansed above and below the gum line. The periodontist can also offer information, guidance, and instructional resources to improve the efficiency of homecare and assist in lowering longterm risk of periodontal disease.

A local anesthetic is generally used during the gum grafting operation. The specific method will vary depending on whether the tissue is taken from the patient’s palate or from a tissue bank.

Tiny incisions will be made at the recipient spot to create a small pocket for the transplant. After that, a split thickness incision is created, and the connective tissue transplant is put into the void between the two portions of tissue. There will likely be some surplus because the graft is often slightly bigger than the recession area.

To further stabilize the graft and prevent it from migrating from the intended site, sutures are usually used. During the first week of recuperation, surgical material is used to cover the surgical area. In around six weeks, the gums will be uniform and will have healed. Gum grafts before and after procedure certainly makes so much difference.  

Contact our office to schedule a consultation with Dr. Elliott Weidman, our periodontist, if you have any questions regarding gum grafting.