Do you have receding gums from periodontal disease? This makes your teeth appear long, resulting in sensitivity issues that are an embarrassment and painful as well. Fortunately, these problems can be reduced with a gum grafting procedure, allowing you to smile more confidently. You might wonder if it hurts or how long the recovery time is.
A periodontist will explain what to expect during this oral surgery and reassure you that you need not worry.
This blog will address gum grafting concerns and give our patients proper insight into what to expect during and after the procedure. Caring about your comfort at Enhance Dental Centre, we are dedicated to making this gum grafting process with us as smooth and painless as possible.
What Is a Gum Graft Procedure?
Gum grafting is a surgical procedure for the gums. It corrects receded gums that expose the root of a tooth. This procedure can help prevent cavities and further receding of the gums. During gum grafting, tissue is taken from another part of your mouth and applied over the exposed root.
There are three types of gum grafts:
- Connective tissue graft: This is the most common type. It involves using the tissue from under the surface of the roof of your mouth.
- Free gingival graft: This one is taken directly from the roof of your mouth. It is for individuals with thin gums who need extra support.
- Pedicle graft: In this case, the tissue is taken from the surrounding area of a tooth nearby. It is applicable only when sufficient healthy gum tissue is present in the concerned area.
You may have some discomfort after a gum grafting procedure. Let’s now talk about the possible pain and the methods by which you can relieve it.
Will Gum Grafting Hurt?
During your surgery, you won’t feel any pain because of the anesthesia. After you go home and the anesthesia wears off, you might feel some soreness and discomfort. Luckily, there are ways to manage this pain and prevent problems. Here are some tips for a quick and successful recovery:
- Don’t brush or rinse your mouth on the day of your surgery.
- After 24 hours, use a mouth rinse to kill harmful bacteria.
- Avoid hot foods and drinks for the first few days. Stick to soft foods for the first week.
- Keep your tongue away from the surgical area.
- Avoid heavy activities for about a week.
- Take any prescribed medications as your periodontist instructs.
A gum graft can greatly improve your oral health, but following these steps is important for proper healing. Soon, you’ll enjoy a healthier, more beautiful smile.
How to Manage Pain Following a Gum Graft?
Pain after a gum grafting procedure can be managed with over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve). Your doctor may also give you a prescription pain medication. If you receive one, use it as directed.
To reduce pain after treatment, follow your periodontist’s advice on oral hygiene. Brush and floss gently during recovery. Do not irritate the treated area by touching it with your fingers, tongue, or anything else.
Eat soft foods such as mashed potatoes, yogurt, and jello. Do not eat hard, sharp, spicy, acidic, or very hot or cold foods, as they can potentially irritate the area.
Conclusion
Gum grafting may seem scary, but most patients feel little pain during and after the procedure. Thanks to modern techniques and good pain management, any discomfort is usually brief and easy to handle.
At Enhance Dental Centre, your comfort is our main focus. We work hard to make your gum grafting experience as easy and stress-free as possible. If you have questions or concerns about the procedure, our team is ready to help. Contact us today to learn more or to schedule a consultation. We are committed to helping you achieve a healthy, confident smile.
FAQs
1- Does it hurt to talk after gum graft?
Talking makes the muscles in your mouth stretch, which can loosen the gauze and lead to bleeding. It’s tough to stay quiet, but try to avoid speaking as much as you can for the first two to three days after gum grafting surgery.
2- How soon after a gum graft can I eat?
For the first 48 hours after surgery, only drink liquids. After that, gradually add soft foods back into your diet.
3- What is more painful, a root canal or a gum graft?
A gum graft heals faster and is less painful than a root canal.
