You might have decided to get a dental implant, but after a examination the dentist has suggested that you need gum graft surgery. Why do you need gum graft surgery? Is it painful? How much does it cost?  

1. Why is a gum graft needed before a dental implant?

Once a tooth has been missing for a period of time gum recession is more serious and this is when a gum graft needs to be considered. A gum graft can ensure the success of the dental implant and that it is securely fitted. With dental implants it is important that both the jaw bone and gum tissue are healthy and strong for dental implants to succeed. If your gum and bone tissue aren’t healthy enough, the implant  may become loose and possibly fail.

2. Is a gum graft painful?

Before starting the gum graft, a local anesthetic will be used to numb the area so that the procedure does not hurt. After the procedure you may experience discomfort over the next few days which will subside. However, if the pain does not subside but gets worse then you should contact your dentist immediately.

3. How much does a gum graft cost?

Gum graft surgery costs generally start at 3,000 RMB, however costs will depend on the type of gum graft surgery. For example pedicle gingival grafts where a flap of tissue from an area right next to your gum recession and uses the flap to cover the area of receding gum tissue. This type of gum graft is less costly compared to free gingival graft where tissue is directly removed from the top layer of tissue on the roof of the mouth and stitches this tissue to the existing gum area.

Tips: Although a gum graft can be used to correct the effects of receding gums, but this does not mean that the problem won’t recur. Therefore, patients need to take extra care with oral hygiene and see the dentist at least twice a year for check-ups and dental cleanings.