What Is a Soft Tissue Graft?

Have you been informed by your dentist or orthodontist that you need a soft tissue graft? You may be on the verge of panicking because gum grafts sound worse than they are. However, it is a procedure to protect your teeth from the adverse effects of gum recession. You may choose to undergo a soft tissue graft if you want to enhance your smile and a cosmetic procedure of restorative dentistry.

Receding gums affect many people, and the process causes gum recession to expose the tooth’s root. The recession can damage the supporting bone and is a common problem that affects approximately 4 to 12% of adults without being noticed unless it develops into a severe condition.

If your periodontist has recommended you a soft tissue graft, here is what you can expect during the procedure.

What Happens During a Soft Tissue Graft?

Soft tissue grafts are available in three types, and the method used on you will depend on your specific requirements. The procedures for the graft include:

Connective tissue grafts are the most common method for treating exposure to the roots. During this procedure, a flap of skin is taken from the roof of your mouth, and the tissue from under the flap is removed to be stitched to the completion around the exposed root.

If you have thin gums and need additional tissue to enlarge them, the periodontist will offer you free gingival grafts similar to connective tissue grafts. Instead of creating a flap and removing tissue from under the top layer of the flesh, some tissue is removed from the roof of the mouth and attached to the affected area.

If you have plenty of gum tissue near the tooth, you could be offered pedicle grafts where the gum is grafted from around the tooth that needs repair.

Dentists are also using graft material from a tissue bank rather than the roof of the mouth. At times proteins for stimulating the tissue are used to encourage the natural ability of the body to grow bone and tissue. Your dentist will recommend the best method suitable for you after evaluating your situation.

Recovering after Undergoing Soft Tissue Graft

You will be discharged from the clinic following the procedure to go home. However, if you have received a sedative during the process, you must make arrangements to have someone to drive you home.

Your dentist will provide specific instructions regarding the diet you can have, physical activity, and medications to ensure your recovery progresses well. You must not brush and floss the gum line that underwent the soft tissue procedure until the area has healed. The dentist will recommend you rinse your mouth with a special mouth rinse to help control plaque. Antibiotics may also be prescribed to manage the risk of infections.

A couple of weeks after the surgery, you will be advised to have soft foods and avoid hard foods to prevent injuries.

The type of soft tissue graft performed on you will determine how much discomfort you will experience after the procedure. You will require a couple of weeks for your mouth to heal fully, but you should be able to return to work and continue regular activities the day after the surgery.

Contacting The Dentist After the Procedure

If you are experiencing any unusual symptoms like bleeding that doesn’t stop even after applying pressure for over 20 minutes or pain and swelling along with bruising than your dentist advised to expect you should consider contacting the dental professional who performed the soft tissue graft. In such cases, the dentist may recommend additional medications to help you overcome the discomfort.

The Costs Associated with Soft Tissue Grafts

If you are not aware of the costs involved in getting soft tissue grafts, it would be helpful to determine the value of gum surgery beforehand by consulting your dentist. Insurance companies are paying a portion of the operation, but if you don’t have insurance, the procedure’s cost will depend on the extent of work that needs to be done. You can discuss payment options with your dentist before considering the process to enhance the appearance of your gums.

Will You Need Soft Tissue Grafts Repeatedly?

Soft tissue grafts are competent in repairing problems with gum recession. Still, if you do not care for your teeth and gums appropriately, you may need to undergo it more often than you think is necessary. Therefore it is essential for you to maintain good oral care at home by brushing and flossing and visiting your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. Having a well-balanced diet will also prove helpful to prevent gum recession.