Gum Grafting in Elizabeth, NJ

Gum grafting is a quick and easy way to help with thinning or receding gums. Whether it’s due to a battle with gum disease or the aftermath of aggressive brushing techniques, receding gums can expose more of your tooth and the nerves, making the area painful and sensitive to the touch. It can also increase your risk of further gum diseases and infections. 

When you are looking for a qualified oral surgeon to help complete your gum grafting procedure with professional skill and ease, look no further than the dedicated team at Elizabeth Oral Surgery Group. Dr. Nancy Herbst has more than 25 years of experience in the world of oral and maxillofacial surgery and is proud to be a part of a cost-effective and high-quality oral care service provider. For more information on how we can best help your oral health concerns today, please call our number listed below. 

Benefits of Gum Grafting

Gum grafting is the process of helping thinning or receding gums regain strength and cover better surface area. Gum recession is most likely the direct result of gum disease, which forms when plaque is allowed to harden and gets buried into the pockets of the gum. This causes inflammation and can lead the gum to pull back away from the teeth, leading to increased sensitivity and potential bone loss. Other common causes include aggressive or incorrect brushing techniques, smoking, and congenital disease. 

Depending on the severity of your recession, the benefits of gum grafting can vary. The graft will be used to increase the natural protection of your bone and prevent any further loss or risk of infection. This can lead to an overall healthier smile and a better chance of not losing the tooth to infection, rot, or looseness. Other benefits of the procedure include improving the overall aesthetics of your smile, reduced risk of cavities, and a better chance at successfully fighting off gum disease. 

How an Oral Surgeon Can Help

An oral surgeon can help by providing a unique set of skills and training. Oral surgeons go through regular dental school and then are required to participate in a four-year residency-based program, where they are trained in surgical techniques and other areas of focus. Your oral surgeon from Elizabeth Oral Surgery Group will be there to assist you through every step of the way, including: 

Pre-Treatment Care

Before you go in for a gum grafting procedure, your oral surgeon will likely want to conduct an examination and discuss any concerns or questions you may have. If you are in need of a gum graft due to an ongoing battle with periodontitis or gingivitis, your oral surgeon will likely want to devise a plan of action including other procedures to be done in conjunction with the graft. 

They will measure the recession on each individual tooth and study the gum pockets to assess their current state. From there, they will decide if a gum graft is the best option for your personalized care. 

Gum Grafting Procedure

The actual procedure is fairly quick and pain free, especially when being performed in a top-notch facility with minimally-invasive techniques. Your surgeon will begin by providing you with a local anesthetic and prepping the site of the graft. This tissue is normally taken from the roof of your mouth. Once the tissue has been removed, the area will be sutured and the graft will be placed over the areas of recession. 

From there, the tissue will be sutured onto the gums. Your surgeon can use stitches that fall out on their own, or your stitches may need to be removed manually next visit. 

Post-Treatment Care

Depending on the level of severity and how much recession your gums have, you may require more than one graft. Each grafting procedure will take roughly an hour, after which you will receive gauze to help with any bleeding. Swelling, discomfort, and some bleeding are not uncommon. Your surgeon will provide you with specific instructions on when to take your prescribed medication and use a mouth rinse if necessary. 

Soft foods are encouraged, as they will not disrupt the healing process. Your surgeon will set a follow-up appointment to ensure everything is healing properly and looking good. 

Consult With a Dedicated Oral Surgeon Today

The longer receded gums go without treatment, the more likely they are to cause permanent damage to your teeth and smile. Elizabeth Oral Surgery Group is here to help and alleviate any stress or fear associated with your upcoming gum grafting procedure. Our team practices a people-first approach to the world of dentistry and oral health, meaning we are there with you every step of the process, from the first consultation to the final appointment. We will even work with you to help get the most out of your insurance reimbursement as possible. 

Don’t settle for an uncomfortable smile – set your appointment with a qualified surgeon today. We can be reached directly at our office at (908) 774-8196 or through our contact form.