Soft tissue grafting is a procedure that is designed to enhance the tissue around the teeth and/or any present dental implants. It is performed to optimize comfort, improve the appearance of the teeth, and provide a boost to one’s oral health.
This grafting procedure helps in protecting the root of the tooth by increasing the amount of tissue. The tissue comes from a donor source. In most instances, the donor tissue is pulled from the roof in the mouth or from gum tissue that is adjacent to the area in the mouth.
Is Soft Tissue Grafting Very Painful?
If you do not have to have tissue removed from the roof of your mouth, the pain associated with soft tissue grafting should be little to none. If tissue is required from the palate, you may find that you experience mild to moderate discomfort for a few days.
Other than this, the amount of pain you personally experience will depend on the type of grafting that is performed.
What Are the Main Types of Soft Tissue Gum Grafting?
Generally speaking, there are two main types of soft tissue gum grafting. The first is referred to as “gingival” and the second is identified as “connective tissue”. The following offers a brief outline of each:
- Gingival – In this grafting procedure, mucosa is resected and repositioned away from the teeth that are negatively impacted. A very small piece of tissue from the roof of the mouth is transplanted over the area. Both areas are then sutured and packed to minimize discomfort.
- Connective Tissue – In this soft tissue grafting procedure, tissue is reflected away from the teeth that are affected. Small tissue is then transplanted into the area. This procedure is considered to be more comfortable for patients because of the fact that an area on the roof of the mouth is not left exposed.
Why Is Soft Tissue Grafting Performed?
Soft tissue grafts are used to aid in stopping the process of gum recession. It may also be performed to improve the overall appearance and functionality of the gum line.
How Long Does It Take to Heal After a Soft Tissue Grafting Procedure?
In most instances, healing will occur over a 4-to-8-week period. Blood vessels will form that will aid in providing proper circulation to the new tissue. The wound must remain completely stable for this to properly occur. This is referred to as “vascularization”. If this goes well, completely healing will occur within 1 to 2 months.
Is a Soft Tissue Graft Expensive?
If paying out of pocket, a soft tissue gum graft could prove to be a bit on the expensive side. In most instances, it can run anywhere from $2,000 to $3,500.
However, it depends on the amount of damage, where the donor tissue comes from, and if you have any type of dental insurance that will offset the cost. In some instances, you may finance the procedure. You must contact the periodontist for more information.
If you are in need of a soft tissue gum graft, we encourage you to contact us here at Implant & Perio Center of Kansas by calling: 316-330-4050