What is the Success Rate for a Free Gingival Graft?
Periodontal disease is the leading cause of gum recession, a condition in which the gum tissue pulls away from the tooth surface, and can have a negative impact on your oral health and the appearance of your smile. Gum recession can cause extreme sensitivity due to root exposure as well as bone loss and tooth mobility.
Gum grafting is a procedure used to restore receding gums and prevent further damage. One type of graft, a free gingival graft, is used not only in patients who have minor recession but also in those who have thinning gum tissue.
What is a free gingival graft?
This is a surgical procedure that transplants soft tissue from one part of the mouth, typically the roof, to the affected gum line. Donor tissue from a tissue bank can also be used instead of tissue from the patient's mouth and can be an easier recovery for the patient.
How long does it take for a free gingival graft to heal?
The overall recovery time for a free gingival graft is 2 to 3 weeks. Most patients are able to return to work or school one day following surgery but it is important that a soft foods diet is followed for 3 to 4 days. After about two weeks, you will notice improvement in swelling and bruising and will be able to return to regular foods though is advised to continue avoiding crunchy and spicy things.
Your doctor will provide an antibiotic to help prevent infection as well as a pain medication to help manage your discomfort. But, after a day or two, pain should be manageable with over-the-counter pain medications. With grafts harvested from the palate, pain may feel similar to a pizza burn on the roof of your mouth. Major discomfort should subside within a few days but if you continue to have increasing discomfort, it is important to see your doctor as soon as possible to make sure that your graft is healing properly and infection-free.
What is the success rate for a free gingival graft?
The overall success rate of a free gingival graft is 90% in patients. To ensure the continued success of a free gingival graft, it is important to maintain a good oral hygiene routine as well as regular visits with your dentist. A free gingival graft can be successful for the patient's entire life but it will not prevent periodontal disease which can deteriorate gum tissue including the graft.
If you have noticed thinning of your gum tissue, speak with your dentist to see if a free gingival graft might be a good treatment option for you. Your dentist will not be the doctor to perform the procedure but they will be able to refer you to a respected periodontist who will provide a full periodontal evaluation and determine if you are a candidate for a free gingival graft.