Gum Grafting
Healthy gums are the frame for your smile, playing a vital role in both your oral health and your confidence. When gums recede, they expose the delicate roots of your teeth, which can lead to sensitivity and other issues. Gum grafting is a reliable solution designed to stop this recession in its tracks.
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What Causes Gum Recession?
Seeing your gums pull back can be alarming, but it is a very common issue. Often, it is caused by periodontal disease, which damages the gum tissue and supporting bone structure. However, it isn’t always related to infection. Simply brushing your teeth too hard over the years can wear down your gum line.
Other factors include genetics—some people are just more prone to thin gums—or habits like teeth grinding. Even the position of your teeth can play a role. Regardless of the cause, we can help you understand why it is happening and how to fix it.
What to Expect During Gum Graft Surgery
We want you to feel fully prepared and at ease. Your journey starts with a simple conversation and an exam. We will take images to see the extent of the recession and discuss your goals. On the day of your procedure, we’ll use local anesthesia to numb the area completely to keep you as comfortable as possible.
During the procedure, your surgeon will gently place new tissue over the exposed tooth root. This might come from another part of your mouth or from a safe donor source. We then secure the tissue to let it heal. The process is precise and designed to minimize discomfort while giving you the best possible result.
Benefits of Gum Graft Surgery
Choosing this treatment is an investment in your long-term health. The most immediate benefit is often relief from that sharp sensitivity to hot or cold drinks. By covering the exposed roots, we protect them from decay and further wear.
Beyond health, there is an aesthetic bonus. Gum grafting restores a balanced, even gum line, so your teeth don’t look too “long” or uneven. It also builds a thicker, stronger foundation of tissue that helps prevent future recession, keeping your teeth secure for years to come.
Signs You May Need a Gum Graft
You might be wondering if this is the right treatment for you. The most obvious sign is seeing the roots of your teeth exposed or noticing that your teeth appear longer than they used to. You might also experience increased sensitivity when brushing or eating. If your gums look red, swollen, or tender, or if you are worried about losing a tooth due to lack of support, we encourage you to come see us for an evaluation.
Types of Gum Graft Surgery
We believe in personalized care, so we choose the technique that fits your specific anatomy.
- Connective Tissue Grafts: This is the most common method. We gently take tissue from under a flap on the roof of your mouth and place it over the exposed root
- Free Gingival Grafts: If you have naturally thin gums, this method helps bulk up the tissue to provide better protection
- Pedicle Grafts: If you have plenty of gum tissue near the exposed tooth, we can simply reposition it to cover the root without taking tissue from elsewhere
- Allografts: For patients who prefer not to use tissue from the roof of their mouth, we can use safe, medically processed donor tissue
Why Choose Our Practice for Gum Graft Surgery
At Southwest Oral Surgery, our team has deep expertise in periodontics and uses leading-edge techniques to ensure your surgery is minimally invasive. We are dedicated to making your recovery as smooth as possible. From explaining your options to checking in with you after the procedure, we are here to support you.
Schedule a ConsultationCommon Questions
We are happy to answer any questions you have to help you feel confident in your care.
We do everything possible to minimize discomfort. You will be numbed during the surgery, so you shouldn’t feel any pain during treatment. Afterward, you might feel some soreness. To help you recover successfully and comfortably, we will provide you with a plan and medication to manage this easily at home.
Recovery is usually quick. You can expect to be back to your normal routine within a day or two. However, we recommend eating soft foods for about a week or two to allow the graft to heal undisturbed. We will give you a list of foods to enjoy, as well as ones to avoid.
Yes, the goal of gum grafting is to look completely natural. Once the tissue heals, it should blend seamlessly with your surrounding gums. Most people won’t be able to tell you had surgery—they will just notice that your smile looks healthier.
Meet Your Care Team
Expert Surgeons, Compassionate Hearts
Our surgeons are more than just highly trained experts; they are dedicated caregivers who truly want the best for you.
