What Are The Gum Graft Healing Stages

Although gum grafts are common, many people are unsure what to expect during and after the procedure. One concern is the healing process. Understanding the gum graft healing stages Toronto will help you feel prepared.

 Types of Gum Grafts

The type of gum graft you receive will impact the healing process. In the case of a connective-tissue (the most common type of gum graft) as well as in the case of free gingival grafts, your dentist will usually take tissue from the roof of your mouth (palate).

Sometimes, dentists and patients decide to use graft material from a tissue bank instead of removing tissue from the palate. This means that the root of the mouth is left intact and only the gums need to heal.

For pedicle grafts, your dentist will take tissue from the gum or near the tooth that requires the repair. This involves partially cutting away a flap and pulling the tissue over the exposed root. Again, this avoids using tissue from the palate.

 Healing of the Gums

Healing starts with the soft tissue shrinking and the swelling going down. Gradually, the tissue begins to bind to the root surface and neighboring bone surface. At this time, new vessels start to form, which bring blood supply to the tissue. The process continues over four to six weeks.

 Healing of the Palate

The wound on the palate heals slightly slower than the gum graft. For the first few days, it will feel like a painful burn. Usually, discomfort ceases after around 14 days, when the skin over the removal site has thickened sufficiently. The palate tends to finish healing around six to eight weeks after surgery, but it may take longer if the removal of the tissue left any bone exposed or there was any swelling. For more details, contact us here.