Gum Grafting

Types of Gum Grafting

• Free Gingival Graft: Thickens gum tissue by removing a layer of tissue from the palate and relocating it to the area affected by recession. Both donor and recipient sites heal quickly without permanent damage.
• Subepithelial Connective Tissue Graft: Covers exposed roots by taking tissue from the outer layer of the palate and placing it at the recession site, often with minimal discomfort.
• Acellular Dermal Matrix Allograft: Uses medically processed donated human tissue instead of harvesting from the patient’s palate. This reduces pain and avoids a donor site.

Reasons for Gum Grafting

Gum grafting offers several important benefits:

• Reduced Sensitivity: Covers exposed roots to reduce discomfort from hot or cold foods and protects the tooth from further sensitivity.
• Improved Appearance: Restores symmetry and aesthetics to the smile by covering long or “toothy” teeth caused by gum recession. Adjacent tissue can also be enhanced.
• Improved Gum Health: Helps prevent further tissue and bone loss, protects exposed roots, and halts progression of periodontal disease.

What Gum Grafting Treatment Involves

Before gum grafting, the teeth are thoroughly cleaned both above and below the gum line to remove tartar and bacteria. Educational tools and advice are often provided to improve homecare and reduce future periodontal disease risk.

The procedure is typically performed under local anesthetic. The dentist makes small incisions at the recipient site to create a pocket for the graft. The connective tissue graft is inserted and sutured into place to ensure stability. Surgical material protects the area during the first week of healing. Complete uniformity and gum healing usually occur within six weeks.

If you have any questions about gum grafting, please consult your dentist.