How Long Does It Take Gum Grafting to Heal?
The amount of time required to complete the healing process following a gum graft denton tx will be slightly different for every patient and will largely depend upon what type of gum graft is being performed. The three most common types of gum grafts are:
- Connective tissue graft: Most common type of graft, this procedure involves cutting a flap of skin at the palate and removing tissue from under the palatal flap, which is then stitched over the exposed root.
- Free gingival graft: Like a connective tissue graft, but the grafting material is taken from the roof of the mouth, which is then stitched over the exposed root. This is most commonly performed for patients with thin gums.
- Pedicle graft: Tissue from gum surrounding the tooth in need of repair is grafted after being pulled down or over the exposed root. This is most commonly performed with patients who have enough gum tissue near the tooth.
An additional grafting option for patients who would prefer a less invasive procedure is allograft, which uses donor tissue that has been medically processed.
Patients using tissue from their palate for the graft can typically expect the area where the tissue was removed to be tender for around 7-10 days, whereas patients using donor tissue will likely only experience discomfort for 2-4 days. Most people are able to return to work or normal daily activities within the next day or two following the procedure, but should make a point of avoiding intense physical activity for at least one to two weeks.
The Recovery Process
Once the anesthetic or sedation wears off, discomfort or pain will begin to present themselves. One of the most common method for dealing with post procedural pain following a gum grafting procedure is over-the-counter or prescription pain relieving medication. Patients who are at an increased risk of developing an infection may also be prescribed antibiotics. Regardless of what type of medication you take, be sure to follow the prescribed dose.
Swelling is also common following a gum grafting procedure, but this can generally be managed with ice packs. When using ice packs, never ice the area for more than twenty minutes at a time.
Additional steps you can take to reduce pain or discomfort following your gum grafting procedure, reduce your risk of developing complications, and speed up the overall healing process include the following:
- Gauze should be kept on the site until bleeding has stopped
- Do not brush the gum graft site until the area has fully healed. During this healing process, you can use a special mouth rinse.
- Avoid strenuous physical activities for 1-3 days following the procedure
- Follow a soft food diet for one to two weeks, slowly reintroducing harder foods, saving hard or crunchy foods for last.
If you closely follow these steps, your recovery period should be fast and the pain level minimal. If you have been following these steps and are still experiencing pain, bruising, or swelling that seems unusual or excessive, contact your dentist to schedule a follow-up appointment.
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