What are the downsides of a gum graft? Question
The main risks of a gum graft are infection, heavy bleeding and graft failure. You will have mild soreness, bleeding, swelling and bruising in the first days. Recovery takes one to two weeks on average, longer if several areas are treated. Cleveland Clinic reports success rates over 90%.
What to know
- A single graft takes about one hour.
- Avoid hard exercise for at least the first week.
- Call your surgeon for pus or a fever over 101°F.
Sources
Treatment and surgery Read next
Can receding gums grow back?No. Receding gums cannot grow back, and recession cannot be reversed.
What can be done instead of a gum graft?The pinhole surgical technique is one option.
What is gum flap surgery?Gum flap surgery, also called pocket reduction surgery, treats moderate to advanced periodontitis.
What mouthwash helps with gum disease?An antimicrobial mouthwash can help kill the bacteria that cause gum disease.Am I a candidate for LANAP?Good candidates for LANAP have moderate to severe periodontitis with pockets of 5 mm or more that remain after deep cleaning, and want to keep their teeth without cutting and stitches.Does gum surgery hurt?Gum surgery is done under local anesthetic, so the procedure itself should not hurt; many offices add oral or IV sedation.