Gum Graft Surgery

Gum graft surgery, also known as gingival grafting, is a periodontal procedure designed to correct gum recession. During this surgery, a periodontist or dental surgeon takes healthy gum tissue from one area of your mouth and transplants it to the area where your gums have receded. This helps to cover exposed tooth roots, improve the appearance of your smile, and protect your teeth from further damage.

Why Might You Need Gum Graft Surgery?

There are several reasons why your dentist might recommend gum graft surgery:

1. Severe gum recession
2. Exposed tooth roots leading to sensitivity
3. Increased risk of tooth decay and bone loss
4. Aesthetic concerns due to an uneven gum line
5. Prevention of further gum recession

Types of Gum Graft Procedures

There are three main types of gum graft procedures:

1. Connective Tissue Grafts

This is the most common type of gum graft. The periodontist creates a small flap in the roof of your mouth and removes a layer of tissue from underneath. This tissue is then stitched to the gum area being treated.

2. Free Gingival Grafts

In this procedure, a small amount of tissue is taken directly from the roof of your mouth and attached to the treatment area. This method is often used for people with naturally thin gums who need additional tissue to enlarge the gums.

3. Pedicle Grafts

This technique uses gum tissue adjacent to the tooth needing repair. A flap is partially cut away and stretched over the exposed root, then sewn into place. This can only be done if you have plenty of gum tissue near the affected tooth.

The Gum Graft Surgery Procedure

Gum graft surgery is typically performed as an outpatient procedure and follows these general steps:

1. Local anesthesia is administered to ensure your comfort.
2. The periodontist prepares the recipient site where the graft will be placed.
3. Depending on the type of graft, tissue is harvested from the donor site (usually the palate).
4. The graft is carefully positioned and sutured in place.
5. The donor site is also sutured closed.

The entire procedure usually takes between 1 to 2 hours, depending on the number of teeth being treated.

Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery from gum graft surgery typically takes about two weeks. During this time:

• You may experience some discomfort, swelling, and minor bleeding.
• You’ll need to follow a soft food diet and avoid hot or spicy foods.
• Careful oral hygiene is crucial, but you’ll need to avoid brushing or flossing the treated area until it heals.
• Your dentist may prescribe antibiotics and pain medication.
• Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your healing progress.

Benefits of Gum Graft Surgery

Gum graft surgery offers numerous benefits:

1. Reduces tooth sensitivity
2. Protects tooth roots from decay and further recession
3. Improves the aesthetic appearance of your smile
4. Helps prevent tooth loss
5. Enhances overall gum health

Cost of Gum Graft Surgery in India

The cost of gum graft surgery in India can vary depending on various other factors, But here is the average cost:

• Basic gum graft surgery: ₹5,000 to ₹15,000 per tooth
• More complex gum graft procedures: ₹15,000 to ₹40,000 per quadrant

It’s important to note that these are approximate ranges, and the actual cost may vary.