What is the healing process for a periodontal gum graft like? i am going to be needing a gum graft, and am wondering about long like it will take to heal, and what the process will be like.

As : As with any surgical procedure the healing process depends upon the extent of surgery and the healing capabilities of the patient. Without this information it is hard to give you an accurate answer. Basically, the first week is the most critical for both the donor and recipient sites. The donor site, if it is on the roof the the mouth will be tender so you must watch what you eat. The critical aspect of the graft recipient site(s) is/are to leave them undisturbed so as to allow a new blood supply develop and to allow the transferred tissue integrate with the surrounding tissues. Many times the surgeon will place a protective dressings over the sites. It is also important to keep the areas clean. Your surgeon will give you instructions for care.

Dr : Dr funari was rather complete in his answer. The only thing that can be added would be that discomfort after a graft is normally very low. It is just a matter of moving soft tlissues around into better, more advantageous ( to you ) places, so it is not very incapacitating. When the roof of the mouth is the donor site we make a clear upper stint ( invisible plastic cover ) that you can wear while the healing takes place. You can wear it until the site feels normal & comfortable. It is much like an orthodontic ( braces ) retainer. It makes eating easy. Stayng away from the sites is very helpful & after a week we take out the sutures & then you're well on your way.