Expert Gum Graft Treatment for Patients in North London

You should consider a gum graft if you notice gum recession. It is often advised when teeth look longer or you feel a notch at the gum line. A key sign is sharp sensitivity to hot or cold because the root is exposed. People also seek this for a more even, healthier look. If recession is worsening, a graft helps prevent more damage to the supporting bone. It protects vulnerable roots from decay and supports long term dental health.

Begin with a detailed 45 minute consultation and digital imaging to map the recession. The surgery itself usually lasts 60 to 90 minutes. First, the area is numbed with local anaesthetic. A small piece of tissue is taken from the roof of the mouth or another donor source. The graft is stitched over the exposed root. A protective dressing may be placed to aid healing. For example, a Highgate patient with severe sensitivity on a canine tooth had this procedure; the operation lasted about 75 minutes and the sensitivity disappeared after healing. You return for a follow up in 1-2 weeks to remove stitches and check healing. Full graft integration takes a few months.

Recovery guides the success of the graft. In the first 24-48 hours expect mild discomfort and swelling manageable with ibuprofen. Stick to a soft, cool diet for the first week such as yogurt, smoothies, and soups. Avoid chewing on the graft side. Do not brush or floss the treated area for about two weeks; use a prescribed antimicrobial mouthwash. Avoid strenuous exercise for 3-4 days to reduce bleeding. A Muswell Hill patient who was treated for recession on her lower front teeth found preparing soft foods in advance helped the first week. Red flags: call our practice immediately if you experience persistent bleeding, severe pain not relieved by medication, or signs of infection like fever or pus. Please contact us during our office hours Mon/Wed/Fri 9-5 and Tue/Thu 11-7. For severe issues outside these hours, call 111 or visit your nearest A&E.

While gum grafting is a highly effective treatment, other options fit specific situations. For very mild recession without sensitivity, active monitoring may be enough. We can show brushing techniques to prevent recession from worsening. The Pinhole Surgical Technique offers a less invasive option to reposition existing gum tissue. It suits only certain recession types. If recession is caused by active gum disease, the first step is periodontal therapy to treat the underlying infection before any surgical options are considered. We will discuss all suitable alternatives with you during your consultation.

To make an informed choice, consider these questions when you speak with any provider in North London: what gum graft type do you recommend for my situation and why? what is your experience with this procedure? what should I expect in terms of discomfort from the donor site on my palate? what is the total cost including the consultation, surgery, and all follow-up visits? how long do you expect the results of the gum graft to last? what are the specific risks or complications in my case? do you accept my dental insurance such as Denplan or Cigna for this treatment?

Costs vary with the number of teeth treated, graft type, and case complexity. As a private practice we provide a detailed treatment plan with a full cost breakdown after the initial consultation. There are no hidden fees. We are not NHS, but we accept several private plans including Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. We advise checking with your insurer about coverage for periodontal surgery. Our team can help with the paperwork.