Gum Grafting in Williston, VT

If periodontal (gum) disease has progressed into the more complex phases, you might develop gum recession. This induces a raised gumline and visible tooth roots. At Contemporary Dental Arts, a part of your gum disease therapy may consist of gum graft surgery to restore your gumline. With many different graft choices, dentist Dr. Lauren Shanard will create your unique treatment plan to repair your gums. Contact our office in Williston, VT to find out more information on how gum graft surgery may repair your gums, cover your teeth, and also enhance the appearance of your grin.

Most commonly, gums grafts are needed to fix gum recession brought on by gum (periodontal) disease. Your gumline might be visibly higher and your gums may pull back from your teeth. Exposed tooth roots can lead to greater sensitivity. Less common reasons which may cause or lead to gum recession are aggressive tooth brushing or using a bad technique, frequent jaw clenching or teeth grinding (bruxism), and dental misalignment. Sometimes, oral piercings (tongue or lip) can rub against the gums and lead to recession. During your appointment, Dr. Shanard will assess your gums and decide if you're a good candidate for gum grafting.

There are different kinds of grafts that will be chosen according to your particular needs. Connective-tissue gum grafts are the most common kind used to fix exposed tooth roots. This starts by cutting an incision in the palate (roof of your mouth) to take a little flap of skin. The special connective tissue is taken from inside the flap and then grafted to your gums. A free gingival graft is comparable except that much more tissue is taken from the roof of your mouth to build up especially thin gums. The next graft is a pedicle graft, which removes extra tissue from your mouth to wherever you need coverage. During your initial consultation, Dr. Shanard can help you select the type of graft for your needs and goals.

It is possible to go home following this procedure; however, you should recover for a couple of days. You will also have to have someone take you home if you had intravenous or oral sedation. Dr. Shanard will explain your aftercare instructions, such as what to eat, what to avoid, and any prescription medications you will need to take. You might feel some discomfort or pain for a short amount of time after the procedure, which may be minimized with cold packs and nonprescription pain medication. To prevent damaging the grafts, then you shouldn't floss or brush while your gums heal. Dr. Shanard will suggest a wash to help keep your mouth fresh. You might have to go back for another appointment so Dr. Shanard can track your recovery and improvements.

If you're using dental insurance, then a member of our staff will get in touch with your insurer and confirm your coverage. For remaining costs after dental insurance and also for patients without dental insurance, Contemporary Dental Arts takes several payments. During your appointment, Dr. Shanard will discuss your estimated prices. Our financial coordinator may also give you more information on low-interest medical financing to help make your treatment more affordable.

Surgical gum grafts are a restoration dental treatment at Contemporary Dental Arts utilized to fix your gums, improve your dental health, and also help to make your smile look more appealing. If you have gum recession because of advanced gum disease or other reasons, schedule an appointment with dentist Dr. Shanard at our practice in Williston, VT to find out more information about the advantages of gum grafting.