What to Expect Before, During, and After Gum Grafting
Receding gums can make teeth sensitive and expose roots to damage, but a gum graft can protect those areas and improve comfort. The goal is to rebuild coverage where tissue has thinned and to reduce future problems. Your plan is tailored to your mouth, medical history, and schedule so recovery feels manageable. If you want a straightforward overview and realistic timelines, a gum grafting dentist in Dorval, QC, can explain the steps and answer questions before you begin.
Before Gum Grafting: How to Get Ready
Preparation starts with a review of your health, current medications, and allergies. Your dentist measures gum levels, checks bone support, and may take photos or scans to guide planning. They will suggest the graft type that fits your case, such as tissue from the palate or a donor source, and explain why it helps long-term stability. You will also receive directions about eating, driving, and time off, so the first days go smoothly. For clear guidance on logistics and sedation choices, a dentist in Dorval, QC will outline exactly what to set up at home.
During Gum Grafting: What Happens in the Procedure
Comfort comes first, so the area is fully numbed and, if chosen, light sedation keeps you relaxed. The dentist prepares the site, places the graft where recession is present, and secures it with fine sutures. A small dressing may cover the area to protect it during early healing. You will leave with written instructions and a number to call if you have concerns later that day. If something feels unclear after you get home, a dentist near you can confirm what is normal and when to check in.
After Gum Grafting: The Healing Process
Mild soreness, swelling, and pink saliva are common in the first 24 to 48 hours. Short, cold compresses help with swelling, and prescribed or approved pain relievers manage discomfort. The graft may look pale or slightly uneven at first, which is expected as the tissue settles. Steady bleeding, a fever, or increasing pain deserves a same-day call for advice. If you notice a loose dressing or a suture that bothers your cheek, your Dorval dentist can adjust it and keep healing on track.
Recovery Tips: How to Take Care of Your Gums
Plan soft foods for the first week, such as yogurt, eggs, mashed vegetables, tender pasta, and seed-free smoothies. Skip hot, spicy, or crunchy items that can irritate the graft, and avoid straws and smoking because both can slow healing. Keep your head slightly raised when resting, and limit exercise for a few days to reduce oozing. Brush the other teeth as usual with a soft brush, but follow your dentist’s timing on when to clean near the graft. Use only the prescribed rinses, take medications as directed, and keep every follow-up so sutures can be checked or removed on schedule.
FAQs
Will the graft match my gum color and shape?
At first, the graft may look lighter or uneven. As it heals, the color and contour blend in. If differences remain, your dentist can adjust at follow-ups.
How long do gum graft results last?
With regular cleanings and gentle daily care, results often last many years. Avoid tobacco and hard brushing to protect the new tissue.
Can multiple areas be grafted in one visit?
Often yes. Your dentist will decide based on gum health, comfort, and procedure time. In some cases, staging treatment improves healing.
When is it safe to whiten teeth after a gum graft?
Wait until your dentist confirms full healing, usually after several weeks. Whitening too soon can irritate or inflame the grafted area.
Conclusion
Gum grafting can protect exposed roots, reduce sensitivity, and rebuild a healthy gumline with a plan that fits everyday life. Clear preparation, gentle technique, and simple home care make the process easier from start to finish. For friendly guidance, timely follow-ups, and a treatment plan built around your goals, the team at Clinique Dentaire Dorval is ready to help.