Gum Grafting


Services/Gum Grafting

Repairing Gum Recession in Elizabethtown, KY

Gum Grafting in Elizabethtowne, KYIf you have suffered from gum disease in the past, you may have experienced gum recession. This is a condition that is characterized by the movement of gum tissue downward toward the root of the tooth. Several cosmetic and health concerns can result from gum recession which prompts many patients to seek treatment from Dr. Robert Franklin. Here are some commonly asked questions regarding the recession and repairing of the gum line:

What is gum recession?

This is a condition that usually occurs as a direct or indirect result of gum disease. As gum disease worsens, the tissue can begin to detach from the surface of the tooth and recede downward, leaving the root exposed. In other cases, recession can occur from the treatment of gum disease. Since some treatments require that large amounts of tissue be removed in order to eliminate the infection, it is unavoidable that the gum line will be lowered.

Gum recession can result in several health and cosmetic concerns for patients. The gum line is the only protection that the teeth have from bacteria; therefore recession can leave the tooth exposed and vulnerable to decay. It is also common to experience sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures once the tooth root has become exposed. Additionally, many patients become self-conscious about their appearance, reporting “large” or “long” teeth.

How is gum recession fixed?

Receding gum lines can be fixed by a procedure known as gum grafting. This involves taking a sample of tissue from one area of the mouth and grafting it onto the gum line. After a period of about two weeks, the tissue will heal and the raised gum line will be at a healthier level.

Do gum grafts hurt?

The first question many patients have is, “do gum grafts hurt?” This is relative to the patient and the type of graft that is to be performed. However, it is not uncommon to experience discomfort or soreness for as long as two weeks. Prescription pain medication is generally not needed, though anti-inflammatory medication may be recommended. For more information about gum recession in Elizabethtown, KY, contact Dr. Franklin and schedule your consultation today!

Dr. Robert Franklin, a periodontist in Elizabethtown, Kentucky, specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease. Dr. Franklin welcomes patients from Elizabethtown, KY; Radcliff, KY; Louisville, KY; Bardstown, KY; Bowling Green, KY; Campbellsville, KY; Lebanon, KY; and Springfield, KY as well as the surrounding areas. Our office offers advanced dental treatments including the LANAP Laser Treatment for periodontal disease, Pinhole Surgical Technique™ for gum recession, gum grafting, osseous surgery, and bone grafting. Call (270) 600-6394 to schedule your appointment or click here to request an appointment online!

Have Additional Questions? Call Now: (270) 600-6394

Ready to Schedule Your Appointment?
Click Here!