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Are you terrified of the dentist saying you need a gum graft? If so, you’re not alone. More or less, everyone panics hearing this dental procedure. However, what if it’s not that bad?
Gum grafting sounds intense. However, it’s far from terrifying when you understand the facts. You may wonder whether gum grafting is painful. Surprisingly, most patients say it’s easier than expected.
What is a Gum Graft?
A gum graft significantly restores receding gums and covers exposed tooth roots. There are three kinds: connective tissue, free gingival, and pedicle gum grafts.
The most common is the connective tissue graft. It effectively treats root exposure. Free gingival grafts provide tissue to thin gums, and pedicle grafts utilize adjacent tissue for covering. Dentists prescribe a gum graft when it comes to avoid tooth loss, minimize sensitivity, or enhance smile beauty.
Is a Gum Graft Painful?
Let’s be real—is gum grafting treatment painful? In reality, it’s not excruciating. Most individuals characterize gum graft pain as moderate to mild, not sharp or severe. Throughout the procedure, anesthesia numbs the pain entirely. Therefore, you will not experience anything sharp.
You may get mild soreness or tightness. It may occur after surgery, particularly at the donor site or graft. The degree of pain varies with graft type, your pain tolerance, and the dentist’s skill.
Connective tissue grafts, because of the donor site on the palate, cause more soreness. Pedicle grafts induce less discomfort. This is because tissue remains attached to a portion. If you pay strict attention to recovery measures, discomfort subsides rapidly within a few days.
Pain Management During the Procedure
Dentists use local anesthesia to numb the graft and donor area. You remain awake but do not feel any pain. However, you will get only light pressure or tugging during the gum graft.
If you are anxious, sedation options such as oral pills or nitrous oxide can significantly help you relax. This treatment is not at all painful at this stage. It’s surprisingly tolerable.
Post-Procedure Discomfort: What to Expect
You might experience soreness for three to seven days after a gum graft. Swelling, tightness, or chewing difficulties are normal during the initial few days.
Consider avoiding spicy, crunchy, or hot foods to safeguard your healing gum graft. Contact your dentist if bleeding, severe pain, or pus occurs after the gum graft.
Pain Relief and Recovery Tips
Take prescription or over-the-counter drugs exactly as your dentist instructs. You can apply cold compresses to relieve swelling within 48 hours following your gum graft.
Moreover, you have to consume soft, cold foods such as yogurt, smoothies, and scrambled eggs. This is because they help prevent irritating the graft. Consider adhering to each post-op instruction to ensure your gum graft healing is quick and straightforward.
A gum graft is not as painful as it sounds. Most patients handle it successfully. Keep in mind, gum grafting preserves your smile and saves you from severe dental problems in the future.
Consult with our periodontists today and ask all your questions before booking your gum graft.
