Gum Tissue Grafting: What It Is, Procedure, Benefits & Recovery

Have you noticed that your teeth look longer than they used to, or that certain teeth have become more sensitive to hot and cold? These can be signs of gum recession, where the gum tissue gradually pulls away from the tooth and exposes part of its root.

If your gums have receded significantly, the dentist may recommend gum tissue grafting. It sounds more complicated than it usually is. The procedure adds healthy tissue to areas where the gums have become too thin, helping protect your teeth and improve the gum line.

What is Gum Tissue Grafting?

Gum tissue grafting is a procedure used to treat gum recession. During treatment, a dentist or periodontist places additional gum tissue over an exposed tooth root.

A periodontist is a specialist who focuses on the gums, bone and other tissues supporting the teeth. Periodontists obtain three additional years of specialized training after dental school, which includes training in gum surgery.

The grafted tissue may come from:

• The roof of your mouth

• A tissue donor source

• Specialized grafting materials, depending on your case

The goal is not simply to make your gums look fuller. Adding tissue can help protect exposed roots from sensitivity, decay and further recession.

Why Might You Need a Gum Graft?

Gum recession can happen for several reasons. Brushing too aggressively, periodontal disease, genetics, smoking, trauma and certain tooth positions can all contribute.

It is also more common than many people realize. Cleveland Clinic reports that approximately 88% of people over age 65 have gum recession affecting at least one tooth.

Your dentist may recommend a gum graft if you have:

• Noticeably receding gums

• Exposed tooth roots

• Persistent tooth sensitivity

• Thin gum tissue around certain teeth

• A higher risk of further recession

• Root surfaces that are becoming vulnerable to decay

What Happens During Gum Tissue Grafting?

Before treatment, your dentist or periodontist will examine your gums and measure the amount of recession. They will also examine for signs of gum disease and assess the health of the bone supporting your teeth.

During the procedure:

1. The area is numbed: Local anesthetic keeps you comfortable during treatment.

2. The graft is prepared: If your own tissue is being used, the periodontist usually takes a small amount from the roof of your mouth.

3. The exposed root is prepared: The area is cleaned so the graft can be positioned properly.

4. The graft is placed: The tissue is positioned over the exposed root.

5. The area is secured: Small stitches hold the graft in place while it heals.

A single gum graft often takes about an hour, although treatment can take longer when several teeth are involved.

Is Gum Grafting Painful?

You should not feel pain during the procedure because the treatment area is numbed. Once the anaesthetic wears off, some soreness, swelling or mild bleeding is normal.

Your periodontist will guide you in managing discomfort and protecting the graft. Following those instructions carefully is important because the newly placed tissue needs time to attach and heal.

What is Recovery Like After Gum Grafting?

Most people recover from gum grafting within one to two weeks, although complete healing can take longer depending on the procedure and how many areas were treated.

For the first few days, you may need to:

• Eat soft foods

• Avoid hard, crunchy or spicy foods

• Avoid strenuous exercise

• Take prescribed or recommended medication

• Avoid brushing or flossing directly over the graft until your dentist says it is safe

You will usually have a follow-up appointment so your periodontist can check how the graft is healing.

What are the Benefits of Gum Tissue Grafting?

A successful gum graft can do more than improve the appearance of your smile. It may:

• Cover exposed tooth roots

• Reduce tooth sensitivity

• Protect vulnerable roots from decay

• Help prevent further gum recession

• Improve the look of an uneven gum line

When Should You See a Dentist?

Receding gums should not be ignored, even if they do not hurt. Gum recession itself does not grow back naturally, so early assessment can help prevent the problem from progressing.

If you notice exposed tooth roots, increasing sensitivity or a gum line that appears to be moving upwards, schedule a dental examination. Your dentist can identify what is causing the recession and whether monitoring, non-surgical treatment or gum tissue grafting is the right option for you.