What is a Free Gingival Graft Procedure?
Gum grafting is a procedure that is performed when gum tissue has begun to pull away from the tooth surface, known as gum recession, which can cause bone loss and eventually tooth loss. The most common cause of gum recession is periodontal disease. A free gingival graft is typically performed on patients who do not have enough gum tissue to effectively protect their teeth from problems but may have not yet suffered gum recession. Those who have minor gum recession may benefit from a free gingival graft to stop further recession.
Periodontal disease is a condition that develops over time and is most often a result of poor oral hygiene. However, some patients are genetically predisposed to periodontal issues while others may have underlying medical conditions or be on certain medications that have a negative impact on oral health. Periodontal disease first appears as gingivitis which can be treated easily and often any negative impact is reversible. Once gingivitis progresses into advanced periodontitis, the effects are often irreversible without extensive treatment.
At your regular dental cleanings, your hygienist will measure the depth of the gum pockets around each tooth. Healthy pockets measure between zero and 3 millimeters. Measurements greater than 5 millimeters require more than a simple preventative cleaning to remove buildup and restore health to the gum tissue. In some cases, it is possible to prevent further gum recession with the specialized treatment of a periodontist using a free gingival gum graft.
What is a free gingival graft?
A free gingival graft is often used on patients in anticipation of restorative crowns or orthodontic treatment on patients who lack adequate gum tissue in an effort to get ahead of possible recession in the future. Once placed, a free gingival graft can last a lifetime and is an established, predictable treatment option. Tissue is often harvested from the roof of the patient’s mouth but may also be supplied by a donor tissue bank.
Free Gingival Graft Procedure
Grafting surgery takes about one hour per tooth and is performed under local anesthesia. Depending on the extent of treatment, you are periodontist may offer sedation dentistry in conjunction with the local anesthetic. Sedation options may include nitrous oxide, oral sedation, or IV sedation. IV sedation puts you in a twilight state for the procedure. Oral sedation is a medication such as Valium that will help you relax during the procedure. Nitrous oxide is often referred to as laughing gas and works the same as oral sedation but the effects wear off much quicker.
Once you are properly numb, the doctor will prepare the site receiving the graft by making a small incision and creating a flap in your gum tissue. The tooth roots will be cleaned and cleared of any possible infection and then they will harvest the graft from the roof of your mouth. This involves another incision to take a small wedge of the underlying tissue, leaving the outer layer in place.
The harvested area is then sutured back together and the graft is placed in the gingival flap that was made earlier. Sutures are then placed in the graft area to keep everything in place. If your doctor uses donor tissue, an incision on the roof of your mouth will not be made.
Regular visits to your dentist for professional cleanings will help catch any issues with your gum tissue before they worsen. If you have sensitivity along the gumline, speak with your dentist to see if you might be a candidate for a free gingival graft procedure.