Sarah Michelle Gellar, best known for her role as Buffy in the popular TV series “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” recently took to social media to share a health update. In her Instagram post, she talks about how she had had undergone a serious surgery recently and offered advice to her followers to help them avoid similar situations. The actress’s post quickly garnered attention from fans and colleagues alike.
Sarah Michelle Gellar’s health update on recent dental surgery
On October 4, Sarah Michelle Gellar posted a photo on social media showing her with a big smile with a caption: “Last month, after years of being what is known as an aggressive brusher, I had to have dental surgery. A gum graft, to be specific.”
She disclosed that she had to undergo a dental procedure known as a gum graft as a result of being an aggressive brusher for many years. The procedure was not an easy one for her, as she compared it to the pain she experienced during natural childbirth. Despite the difficulties, she expressed her happiness and the significance of being able to smile brightly thereafter.
She also added a word of caution to her followers: “Now I’ve had natural child birth, and this surgery took me down. So now to be smiling this big… is a big deal. That’s all. Oh, and take it from me, brush gently.”
What is gum grafting surgery and why is it needed?
Gum grafting surgery is a dental procedure that’s often performed to treat a condition called gum recession. Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue surrounding the teeth wears away or pulls back, exposing the roots of the teeth. That can lead to tooth sensitivity, increased risk of tooth decay and an unsightly appearance.
During a gum grafting procedure, a periodontist or oral surgeon takes tissue from another part of the mouth, like the palate, or uses a donor tissue and attaches it to the area of receding gums. That helps cover the exposed roots and restore a healthier gumline. The procedure can be performed under local anesthesia or sedation to minimize discomfort.
Aggressively brushing your teeth can damage the gums.
The surgery usually doesn’t hurt because of anesthesia, but the recovery period can be uncomfortable. People may have swelling, discomfort and sensitivity in the treated area. They’re often told to eat soft foods and avoid brushing or flossing aggressively until they heal.
