Restore Your Gum Health at Jupiter Dentistry
Are you experiencing gum recession or noticing that your teeth appear longer than usual? Receding gums can not only affect the aesthetics of your smile but also pose significant risks to your oral health. Gum grafting is a proven solution to restore your gum line and protect your teeth from further damage.
If you’re struggling with gum disease, contact our Jupiter dental office today by calling (561) 575-5599 for an appointment. While we may not offer gum graft surgery, we’ll evaluate your gum tissue and recommend the best treatment option.
What Is Gum Grafting?
A gum graft is a surgical procedure used to treat gum recession caused by gum disease. It involves taking tissue from another part of your mouth, usually the roof of your mouth, and grafting it onto the receding gums. It helps cover the exposed roots of the teeth, reduces sensitivity, and improves the appearance of your smile.
Types of Gum Grafts
- Connective Tissue Graft: This is the most common type of gum graft. Tissue is taken from the roof of your mouth (subepithelial tissue) and placed over the exposed roots. This method effectively restores gum coverage.
- Free Gingival Graft: In this technique, a small portion of tissue is taken directly from the roof of the mouth and attached to the affected area. This procedure is often used for patients with naturally thin gums.
- Pedicle Graft: If you have sufficient gum tissue near the affected tooth, we can use a pedicle graft. In this method, tissue is partially cut and repositioned to cover the exposed root.
- Alloderm Graft (Donor Tissue): For patients who prefer not to use their own tissue, Alloderm (donor tissue) can be used as a safe, effective alternative.
What Is Bone Grafting?
A bone graft is also used as a surgical procedure to replace lost or damaged tissue in the jaw caused by gum disease. A small amount of bone is taken from another part of your body, or donor source, and placed in the area of the jaw where the bone loss occurred. This procedure can prepare the jawbone for dental implants or restore bone density after tooth loss.
Causes of Gum Recession
Several factors can contribute to receding gums, including:
- Periodontal Disease: Gum disease is the leading cause of gum recession. Bacterial infections damage gum tissue and cause it to pull away from the teeth.
- Aggressive Brushing: Brushing too hard can wear down gum tissue over time.
- Poor Oral Hygiene: Inadequate brushing or flossing can lead to plaque buildup, which exacerbates gum recession.
- Genetics: Some individuals are predisposed to thinner gums, making them more susceptible to recession.
- Tobacco Use: Smoking or chewing tobacco weakens gum tissue and increases the risk of recession.
- Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Grinding or clenching can put excessive pressure on teeth, leading to gum damage.
- Misaligned Teeth: Crooked teeth can place uneven pressure on gums, contributing to tissue loss.
Why Gum Grafting is Necessary
Protects Exposed Tooth Roots
When gums recede, the roots of your teeth become exposed. Unlike the enamel on your teeth, roots are not as resistant to decay, making them prone to cavities and sensitivity.
Prevents Further Gum Recession
Gum grafting reinforces the existing gum tissue, preventing further gum loss and protecting the integrity of your smile.
Reduces Tooth Sensitivity
Exposed roots can cause extreme sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods. By covering the roots, gum grafting alleviates discomfort.
Enhances Aesthetics
Receding gums can make teeth appear longer and uneven. Gum grafting restores a natural, healthy gum line, enhancing the overall appearance of your smile.
Prevents Tooth Loss
Severe gum recession can compromise tooth stability. By strengthening gum tissue, gum grafting helps secure teeth in place for years to come.
How Gum Grafting Works
During a gum grafting procedure, a dentist or periodontist takes tissue from another part of your mouth—such as the roof of the mouth—or uses donor tissue to replace the lost gum tissue. The graft is carefully placed over the affected area to encourage the growth of new, healthy gum tissue.
Costs of Treatment
The costs of a bone or gum graft will vary depending on several factors, including the geographical location, the complexity of the procedure, the extent of the graft needed, and the dentist or periodontist performing the treatment. The specific materials used for the graft can also affect the overall cost.
The cost of a bone graft can range from $200 to $3,000 per graft site. However, if multiple grafts are required, the costs can increase accordingly. The cost of gum grafts can vary depending on the technique used and the amount of gum tissue that needs to be grafted. Generally, gum grafting can range from $600 to $1,200 per graft site.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is grafting painful?
Bone and gum grafting procedures are typically performed with a local anesthetic applied, which numbs the area and reduces any discomfort or pain during the procedure. After the procedure, patients may experience some discomfort, but this can be managed with pain medication and proper aftercare.
How long does it take to recover from bone grafts or gum grafts?
Recovery time varies depending on the extent of the procedure and the patient’s overall health. Generally, patients can expect to experience some discomfort and swelling for a few days after the procedure, and it may take several months for the transplanted tissue to fully integrate and heal.
Will insurance cover the cost of bone or gum grafting?
The cost of bone and gum grafting procedures can vary depending on the extent of the procedure and other factors. Some insurance plans may cover all or a portion of the cost of these procedures, but it’s important to check with your provider before the procedure to determine your coverage.
How do I know if I need gum grafting?
If you have symptoms such as receding gums, tooth sensitivity, or visible root exposure, gum grafting may be necessary. Schedule a consultation to evaluate your condition.
Improve Your Quality of Life With Gum Disease Treatment
Don’t let bone and gum loss rob you of your beautiful smile and oral health. Take action today by contacting our Jupiter dentist to schedule a consultation for bone and gum grafting. Call (561) 575-5599 to get started.
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2151 FL A1AAlt #1300,
Jupiter, FL 33477- (561) 575-5599
- Monday: 8am - 5pm
- Tuesday: 8am - 5pm
- Wednesday: 8am - 5pm
- Thursday: 8am - 5pm
- Friday - Saturday - Sunday: Closed