Connective tissue graft operation is performed to fix the tooth root exposed as a result of gingival recession. Before this operation, it may be necessary to perform procedures such as tooth root straightening. There can be many reasons for gum recessions. Tooth extraction, which can occur due to reasons such as not paying attention to oral hygiene, genetic factors, teeth grinding, leads to tooth loss if not treated on time.
How is Connective Tissue Graft Operation Performed?
Connective tissue graft operation is performed with local anesthesia. The patient under the influence of anesthesia does not feel pain or pain. The gingiva is opened from the palate of the gingival recession area. Tissue called subepithelial connective tissue is taken from under the opened gingiva. This tissue is sutured to the recession area to cover the exposed tooth root as a result of gingival recession. After the connective tissue is removed, the flap is closed by suturing.
Difference Between Connective Tissue Graft and Free Gum Graft
In gingival recessions, free gingival graft operation can be performed in addition to the connective tissue graft operation. There are some differences between the two operations. In the free gingival graft, as in the connective tissue graft, tissue is taken from the palate area. The difference is that in the free gingival graft operation, the tissue under the upper layer is not removed; A piece of tissue visible directly on the surface of the palate is taken. Free gingival graft is used to increase the amount of attached gingiva as well as gingival recessions.
Is There Any Pain After Connective Tissue Graft Surgery?
It is normal to experience pain after the connective tissue graft operation. There is no need to worry as this pain will go away in a few days. Your doctor will give you painkillers, allowing you to spend the healing process more comfortably.
What Should Be Considered After the Connective Tissue Graft Operation?
Since there are stitches in both the donor and recipient areas after the connective tissue graft operation, care should be taken in processes such as feeding and tooth cleaning. Your dentist will inform you about what you need to do. You should not touch the operated areas while brushing and flossing your teeth. Hard foods can also cause the stitches to open or damage the tissue that has not yet healed. Therefore, it is beneficial to consume soft foods.
Recovery After Connective Tissue Graft
The area where the subepithelial connective tissue is removed from the palate usually heals more quickly than the area where the tissue is transplanted. Stitches are removed about one week after the operation in the area where the tissue is taken. In the transplanted area, it may take up to two weeks for the stitches to be removed. It may take about 6-8 weeks for full recovery to occur.
What are the Advantages of Connective Tissue Graft Operation?
The most important advantage of the connective tissue graft operation is the elimination of the gingival recession problem without the patient experiencing tooth loss. Gingival recessions, especially in the front teeth, create an aesthetically bad appearance. Therefore, the patient may also experience psychological distress. When tissue fusion is ensured after the connective tissue graft operation performed on time, no scars are left in the treated area and an extremely natural appearance emerges. Since the patient’s own tissue is used during the connective tissue graft operation, the probability of tissue not retaining in the transplant area is very low.
