Gum transplant for dental implants

What is a gum transplant?

Gum transplantation for dental implants involves surgically removing a piece of tissue, most often from the patient's palate, and transferring it to the place where the implant is planned to be implanted. This treatment aims to restore and strengthen the gums, which may be too thin or atrophied as a result of previous periodontal diseases, tooth extraction or bone loss.

A fragment of the gum for transplantation is most often taken from the palate, that is, from the inside of the mouth, usually in the area of the molars (the back of the palate). It is a place rich in connective tissue, which lends itself well to reconstructing the gum. Depending on the needs, the surgeon can take a so-called free gum graft, containing both epithelium and connective tissue, or perform a connective tissue graft - taken from under the surface of the epithelium, without its top layer.

Thanks to the transplant, stable, healthy and sufficiently thick soft tissues are obtained, which improve the aesthetics of the smile, ensure better maintenance of the implant and protect it from future complications.

When is a gum transplant recommended?

Gum transplantation is recommended in situations where there is a deficiency of gum tissue that can negatively affect oral health, the aesthetics of the smile or the durability of implant treatment. Among the most common indications are:

• Thin or receding gum — patients with a thin gum biotype (soft, transparent gums) have a higher risk of recession, i.e. receding gums. Recessed gums can expose the roots of the teeth, cause hypersensitivity and look unsightly. The transplant strengthens the gum, thickens it and protects it from further retreat, which has a beneficial effect on both health and the appearance of a smile.
• Preparing for implantation — a dental implant needs a stable and healthy gingival environment. If the gum is too thin or unstable at the site of the planned implant, inflammation, difficulty in maintaining hygiene and deterioration of the aesthetic effect may occur. The transplant allows you to get the right amount of soft tissue, which increases the chances of long-term success of the implant and the natural appearance of the gum around it.
• Exposed necks and roots Gum recession often leads to exposed tooth necks or roots, which can cause pain when eating and drinking (especially cold or hot foods), as well as an unsightly appearance (teeth appear longer). Gum transplantation allows you to cover exposed surfaces, protects the root from caries and reduces hypersensitivity.
• Treatment of the effects of parodontosis — advanced periodontal disease causes loss of both bones and gums. After their treatment, a significant loss of soft tissues may remain. A gum transplant can rebuild these structures, strengthen the tissues around the teeth and improve their stability. It is also a way to reduce the risk of recurrence of the disease and improve the aesthetics of the oral cavity.
• Improving the aesthetics of a smile — in cases of asymmetry of the gums, gummy smile or uneven gum line, the transplant can be used to align the contours and achieve a more harmonious smile. This is especially important in the aesthetic zone, that is, in the anterior section, where every millimeter of the gum has a visual meaning.
• Gum loss after tooth extraction — after tooth removal, both bone and gum atrophy often occur. If an implant or prosthetic bridge is planned at this site, the transplant can restore the natural shape of the gum. Thanks to this, a better aesthetic effect is achieved (e.g. no so-called “black triangles” between the teeth) and it is easier to fit the future prosthetic complement.

Gingivitis and Gum Transplantation

Gumplasty in the context of dental implants is a surgical procedure that involves the proper formation and restoration of the soft tissues around the implanted implant. Its main goal is to achieve a natural appearance of the gum, which harmoniously surrounds the prosthetic crown, as well as to create conditions favorable for long-term maintenance of the implant.

This procedure can be performed both before and after implantation - depending on the individual needs of the patient. If the gum is too thin, uneven or has disappeared after the tooth has been removed earlier, surgical correction allows it to be thickened, aligned and shaped accordingly. Thanks to this, the crown on the implant not only looks like a natural tooth, but is also adequately protected against inflammation, gum retraction or difficulties with maintaining hygiene.

Gingivitis plays a particularly important role in the anterior section of the dental arch, where every detail affects the aesthetics of the smile. It allows you to achieve smooth transitions between the teeth, eliminates the so-called “black triangles” and provides a natural contour of the gum, so that the restored tooth does not stand out from the neighboring ones. This is a key stage of implant treatment, combining functionality with aesthetics.

Gum transplant step by step

Step 1. Consultation and treatment planning
The dentist assesses the condition of the gums and bones at the site of the planned implant. Checks whether the quantity and quality of soft tissues is sufficient. If the gum is too thin or atrophied, he recommends a gum transplant. X-rays or a 3D scan (CBCT) are performed to accurately plan the treatment.

Step 2. Local Anesthesia
The procedure is carried out under local anesthesia, so that the patient does not feel pain. In some cases (e.g. with a larger scope or in patients with dentophobia), treatment with sedation or anesthesia is possible.

Step 3. Getting a Transplant
The surgeon takes a piece of gum tissue — most often from the palate. The place of collection is secured with a special dressing or stitches.

Step 4. Preparing the Transplant Site
In the place where the implant is planned or where there is a shortage of gum, the doctor gently prepares a pocket or open surface to which the graft will be attached. This procedure can be performed before implantation of the implant or simultaneously with it.

Step 5. Placement and stabilization of the graft
The removed tissue is placed at the destination and carefully sewn to the surrounding tissues. It is crucial to immobilize it so that it can integrate properly. The seams are usually soluble, but not always - it depends on the technique used.

Step 6. Healing and convalescence
The healing process lasts from several days to several weeks. The transplant site begins to integrate with the surrounding gum. The patient should follow the doctor's recommendations — avoid brushing the operated area, use the recommended rinses and painkillers. After a few weeks, it is possible to proceed to the next stages of implant treatment.

Is Gum Transplant Painful?

The procedure is not painful due to the use of local anesthesia. The patient does not feel pain when cutting, taking tissue or sewing it. After the procedure, there may be moderate discomfort, swelling, tenderness, or a pulling sensation at the site of transplantation and tissue retrieval. The pain is usually easy to control with painkillers and goes away within a few days.

How long does the gum heal after transplantation?

The gum usually heals within 2 to 4 weeks, although full recovery can take up to 6 to 8 weeks, depending on the extent of the treatment, the type of transplant, individual predisposition and adherence to recommendations. The graft site (e.g., the palate) usually heals faster — about 1—2 weeks.

What can not be done after a gum transplant?

• Do not touch or irritate the graft site with your fingers, tongue or brush for the first few days after the procedure.
• Do not smoke — smoking impairs blood supply to tissues, slows healing and increases the risk of transplant rejection and infection.
• Do not drink alcohol — alcohol irritates mucous membranes and may interact with medications.
• Do not rinse your mouth intensively for the first 24 hours - this can wash out the clot or loosen the seams.
• Avoid hard, hot and spicy foods — they can damage the transplant site or cause pain. A soft, cool diet for several days is recommended.
• Do not perform intense physical exertion - it raises the pressure and can provoke bleeding or swelling.
• Do not brush the operated area for the first few days — hygiene should be carried out in accordance with the doctor's instructions.

Compliance with these recommendations significantly increases the chances of a quick and trouble-free healing.

The text has been corrected grammatically, stylistically, and punctually to make it clear, consistent, and professional.