Free Gingival Graft (FGG)

• Prevents Further Gum Recession: By adding more gum tissue, FGG helps protect exposed tooth roots and reduce the risk of further recession.
• Enhances Aesthetics: Helps even out the gum line, which can improve the appearance of the smile.
• Improves Oral Health: Thickened gums are more resistant to trauma and infection, contributing to overall better oral health.

The Procedure for a Free Gingival Graft

1. Assessment: A thorough examination and possibly imaging to determine the severity of gum recession and the necessity for a graft.
2. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to both the donor site (usually the palate) and the recipient site to ensure patient comfort during the procedure.
3. Harvesting the Graft: A small piece of tissue is removed from the donor site. The size and shape of the graft depend on the area that needs coverage.
4. Placement: The graft is then meticulously placed on the recipient site and sutured into position to ensure stability and optimal healing.
5. Healing of the Donor Site: The donor area at the palate is either left to heal by secondary intention or covered with a surgical dressing to protect it and promote healing.

Recovery and Aftercare

• Pain Management: Patients may experience discomfort at both the donor and recipient sites. Pain can typically be managed with prescribed or over-the-counter pain relievers.
• Eating and Drinking: Soft, cool foods are recommended for the first few days to avoid irritation. Hot, spicy, or hard foods should be avoided.
• Oral Hygiene: Careful oral hygiene is crucial. Patients are usually advised to avoid brushing the grafted area directly but to keep it clean with gentle rinsing.
• Follow-Up Visits: Regular follow-up appointments are necessary to ensure the graft is healing properly and to monitor for any complications.

Potential Considerations

• Healing Time: Complete healing and integration of the graft can take several weeks. During this time, it is important to follow all postoperative instructions to ensure the best outcome.
• Risk of Graft Failure: While success rates are high, there is a small risk that the graft might not fully integrate. Proper care and following your dentist's instructions reduce this risk.