How Long Does It Take for a Free Gingival Graft to Heal?
Gum recession
Gum recession can occur as a result of the action, and most often the cooperation, of various factors. They can be divided into:
- anatomical or genetic conditions related to the structure of bones, teeth, and soft tissues, or
- pathological or behavioral factors, which include, among others, bacterial plaque caused by poor oral hygiene and injuries.
For about 75% of the population, it is the absence of good oral hygiene, which develops into gingivitis and then full inflammation of the gums, which is known as periodontitis, that causes gum recession. With periodontitis, there is a displacement of gum tissue surrounding the teeth, which will expose the necks and roots of the teeth, causing teeth to look longer in your mouth.
What are the symptoms of gum recession?
Receding gums are a common reason for patients to visit dental offices. The reason is mainly the worsening aesthetic effect. The recession of gums progresses gradually, so it is initially difficult to notice. However, once it starts, it can be very noticeable.
Additionally, when gums recede and the neck of the tooth is exposed, you may begin to experience hypersensitivity in your teeth or gums. This can be accompanied by a sharp, stabbing pain that appears when you brush your teeth, eat, or drink.
What to do if you have gum recession
The solution to receding gums is often going to be a gingival graft. A Free Gingival Graft is when we use a small portion of the tissue on the top of your mouth to secure, strengthen, thicken, or lengthen the existing gum tissue that is receding around your tooth. Thanks to anesthesia, this is a virtually painless procedure and is minimally invasive. Because of this, it usually takes only 2-3 weeks to fully heal.
How to care for yourself after a Free Gingival Graft
After a Free Gingival Graft, we will send you home with plenty of instructions on how to care for your mouth. Following these instructions will help speed up healing time. These may include refraining from brushing your teeth for at least 12 hours after the procedure and using a special anti-bacterial mouthwash. You will want to be careful in the area of your palate where the skin was taken, as well as where it was placed around your teeth. Refraining from hard, super-hot, super-cold, or spicy foods is also recommended after a Free Gingival Graft. Avoiding vigorous brushing on the sites of the graft is also recommended. Should you experience pain or swelling, we recommend ice packs and over-the-counter pain medication to manage the pain. Though this is rare, if you experience intense pain after a Free Gingival Graft, we want you to contact us immediately, as it could be a sign of infection or other issue.
In Conclusion
The Free Gingival Graft is a minimally invasive procedure that shouldn’t take more than 1-3 weeks to heal, especially if you follow our aftercare directions and refrain from activities such as smoking that will compromise the health and healing of your mouth. If you are experiencing gum recession, reach out to us today to discuss whether a Free Gingival Graft is the right solution for you!