Is Gum Surgery Painful

Patients that have been told by their dentist or periodontist that they need a gum graft are likely concerned that the procedure will be painful. Fortunately, gum surgery is not as bad as it sounds. Designed to protect the teeth from the effects of gum recession, gum grafts can also improve the appearance of a person’s smile.

When gum recession occurs, tissue surrounding the teeth pulls back from the tooth, exposing more tooth surface or the root. Affecting as many as 12% of adults, gum recession is a common problem that due to its gradual process, frequently goes unnoticed until it becomes severe. Once gums recede and the tooth root is exposed, sensitivity issues arise, and appearances may be negatively impacted. Left untreated, gum recession will continue and could result in tooth loss.

Gum Graft Procedure: What to Expect

There are three gum tissue grafts that may be performed. Which procedure the dentist will use is dependent on the patient’s specific needs. The three types of grafting procedures are:

  • Connective-tissue grafts: Most commonly used to treat exposed roots, the procedure involves cutting a flap of skin from the roof of the mouth (palate), removing graft tissue from underneath it (subepithelial connective tissue), and suturing the tissue to the gums surrounding the tooth root. After removing the graft, the flap of skin is stitched down to the palate.
  • Free gingival grafts: Like connective-tissue grafts, free gingival grafts use tissue taken from the palate. However, rather than making a flap, a small piece of tissue is taken directly from the palate and attached to the affected gum area. Most often, this method is reserved for patients that have naturally thin gums and need additional tissue to enlarge them.
  • Pedicle grafts: Pedicle grafts do not involve the palate but instead graft gum tissue from around or near the affected tooth. A flap, known as a pedicle, is partially cut away leaving one edge attached to the gums. Then, the gum is pulled down to cover the exposed root before being sewn into place. Patients must have sufficient gum tissue near the affected tooth to be candidates for this procedure.

Pain Management: During and After the Procedure

Regardless of the number of teeth involved or the technique used, the procedure itself is painless since the dentist will administer a local anesthetic to numb the areas prior to surgery. Once surgery is completed, the dentist will place a dressing (bandage) over the site to protect the area while healing. The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis so the patient is able to return home after surgery.

While the procedure itself is painless, once the anesthetic wears off, discomfort and swelling are possible for a few days. Should tissue be removed from the palate, discomfort tends to be greater. To combat any pain, the dentist will likely prescribe pain medicine and could include an antibiotic to reduce infection risks.

To minimize pain and reduce the likelihood of complications, patients should:

  • If bleeding occurs, place gauze/dressings around the surgical site rather than on top of it
  • Avoid physical activities that could elevate the heartrate for 24 hours after surgery
  • Try not to prod the area with the tongue and leave dressing in place
  • Avoid hot food and beverages for a couple of days
  • Do not brush the day of surgery and keep toothbrush away from surgical site for 30 days

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