Free gingival graft procedures are just one of many procedures in a periodontist’s toolkit, each of which is designed to restore the oral tissues damaged by gum disease. One of the more common effects of untreated gum disease is gum recession, which can cause sensitivity in the tooth, an increased risk of bacterial accumulation and infection, and an imbalanced, uneven smile. Gum grafts can cover exposed tooth roots, restoring the volume of the gum line and protecting the sensitive tooth roots from bacterial buildup. The success rate of free gingival grafts is well over 90%, but this success rate depends in large part on the patient’s cooperation in their own comprehensive oral health care routine. While gum recession is often caused by gum disease, it could also arise as a result of aggressive brushing, smoking, or systemic conditions; once the gums are repaired with free gingival grafts, addressing these contributing factors will be integral to the long-term success of the graft. When cared for properly and holistically, gum grafts can last a lifetime.
What is a Free Gingival Graft?
A few different types of grafts are used to replace and supplement the oral tissues, including soft tissue grafts and bone grafts. Both free gingival grafts and connective tissue grafts are used to repair the oral soft tissues, but these procedures differ in a variety of ways. Connective tissue grafts are required when there is more severe damage to the connective tissues and the teeth are noticeably loose, while gingival grafts can be used to enhance and repair receding or thinning gums, allowing small, nuanced adjustments that restore the gum line. In the free gingival graft procedure, a periodontist transplants keratinized tissue from one area of the mouth, usually the palate, to the gums, where it is stitched into place to protect the tooth and improve the smile. On average, gingival grafts cost anywhere from $600 to $1,200 per tooth and may be covered, at least in part, by dental insurance.
What Other Periodontal Procedures Can Help Heal My Gum Disease?
With exceedingly high success rates, free gingival grafts can be an optional solution for gum recession, though the cost and recovery time can be daunting for some patients. There are many other procedures your periodontist might suggest to help you heal from gum disease, and each of these on their own can help support your oral health, though they are often most successful when used in combination. The most common periodontal treatment is scaling and root planing, also known as a dental deep clean; in this procedure, your periodontist will remove tartar that has built up below the gum line, helping the gums heal around the tooth roots. In cases of severe gum recession, however, this treatment is often insufficient. When gum recession is accompanied by bone degeneration, which can happen when the recession is severe and chronic, bone grafts and guided tissue regeneration may be recommended to supplement the tissue, especially before dental implants are to be placed. In less severe cases, receding gums may be able to be reshaped with scalpels or lasers, improving the appearance of the smile while reducing the risk of trapped bacteria. While this treatment can be used on its own, gum contouring is more frequently used in combination with gum grafts. The best way to reduce the amount of treatment needed is to keep your oral cavity clean and see your dentist regularly for routine checkups. If you notice that your gums are receding, or if you experience any sensitivity or other signs of gum inflammation, make an appointment with your dentist for prompt treatment.