How Long does it Take for a Free Gingival Graft to Heal?
A free gingival graft is a procedure performed by a periodontist to prevent further recession of the gums. Gum recession is a condition where the gums pull away from your teeth leaving the roots exposed. Exposed roots increase the likelihood of other major dental issues such as tooth decay and gum disease. Therefore, it is essential that gum recession be halted as early as possible and gum grafting is an effective solution.
What is the procedure for gum grafting?
A free gingival graft involves harvesting donor tissue from a donor site, typically the roof of the mouth, and suturing it onto the site of the gum recession around the tooth. Over time, the tissues will heal together forming a more complete gum structure and halting the gum recession. Gum grafting is almost always an outpatient procedure that typically takes around an hour.
How much does gum grafting hurt?
The procedure itself will be relatively painless. The periodontist will apply local anesthesia to the area needing the procedure so that it is sufficiently numb and painless. Following the procedure, discomfort at the donor site and the procedure site is common for a few days following the free gingival graft.
How long does free gingival grafts take to heal?
Following the surgery, you will have gauze in place, and this should stay in place for about 30 minutes after the procedure. This will aid in the healing process. You will also have dressing in place that will likely fall out on its own after a few days. If it hasn’t fallen out, your periodontist will remove it at your next appointment. Additionally, your periodontist will send you home with detailed post operative instructions for care and pain management.
Following the procedure, bleeding and swelling is common. This along with general discomfort will subside over time and can be managed with over-the-counter medications or other medications prescribed by your surgeon. It is important to get lots of rest and to avoid activities that are strenuous right after the procedure. This will help the body heal. It is also important to eat soft, cool foods such as Jello, yogurt or pudding. Eating too hard or too hot of foods will damage the graft sites. After about 24-48 hours, the bleeding will go away. Swelling will continue for the first 3-4 days but will also begin improving after the first day or two. Over time, you’ll be able to incorporate a more normal diet. About a week after surgery, your surgeon will want to see you to inspect your healing process.
What are my next steps?
If you have gum recession and need to have a free gingival graft procedure, it is important to talk to your periodontist about your specific recovery timelines. In most cases, your recovery will last a week or two. The discomfort is typically easily manageable with at home and over-the-counter remedies as well. Every person’s health and ability to heal are different however, so speak with your dentist today to discuss your specific case.