Gum Grafting
WHAT IS GUM GRAFTING?
Receding gums expose more than root surface. They expose your teeth to sensitivity, damage, and long-term risk, and that is something worth addressing.
Gum grafting is a surgical procedure that restores receded gum tissue by transplanting tissue to areas where recession has exposed the root surface. At LUMI Dental in Boca Raton, gum grafting addresses both the functional consequences of recession, including root sensitivity, increased cavity risk on exposed root surfaces, and progressive vulnerability to further tissue loss, and the aesthetic concern of teeth that appear elongated or uneven because the gum tissue has receded from its natural level.
Gum recession can result from a variety of causes including overly aggressive brushing technique, inadequate gum tissue thickness, orthodontic tooth movement beyond the boundaries of the bone, periodontal disease, or anatomical factors such as thin bony housing over the roots. Regardless of the cause, exposed root surfaces are more susceptible to decay than enamel, are often sensitive to temperature and touch, and may continue to recede if the contributing factors are not also addressed. Gum grafting arrests this progression, protects the exposed root, and in many cases improves both the aesthetics and the health of the gum tissue significantly.
BENEFITS OF GUM GRAFTING
- Covers exposed root surfaces, reducing sensitivity to temperature, sweet, and tactile stimuli.
- Protects exposed roots from decay, which progresses faster on root cementum than on enamel.
- Arrests the progression of recession and stabilizes the gum level long-term.
- Restores the natural gum line for a more even, proportionate, and healthy-appearing smile.
- Increases the zone of attached, keratinized gum tissue that is more resistant to further recession.
WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT DURING A GUM GRAFTING TREATMENT?
The most commonly performed gum grafting technique is a connective tissue graft, in which donor tissue is harvested from the roof of the mouth through a small incision and sutured over the recipient site at the area of recession. Alternative techniques using donor tissue from a tissue bank eliminate the need for a palatal harvest site when appropriate. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia. Recovery involves dietary modification, careful oral hygiene management around the treated areas, and follow-up appointments to monitor healing. Most patients are significantly more comfortable within a week, with complete healing over four to six weeks.
OUR APPROACH TO GUM GRAFTING
At LUMI Dental, gum grafting begins with a thorough evaluation of the recession, including its extent, its cause, the thickness of the surrounding tissue, and the bone support underlying the affected teeth. We also evaluate and address contributing factors such as aggressive brushing technique or bite forces before surgery, to prevent recession from recurring in the treated area. We plan the graft type and technique based on the specific clinical requirements of the case and review the plan with you in full before scheduling the procedure. Our goal is not just to cover recession. It is to create a stable, healthy tissue environment that protects your teeth for the long term.
Your smile deserves attention today, not tomorrow.
Schedule Your ConsultationWhat our PATIENTS SAY
VIEW ALL TESTIMONIALFrequently Asked Questions LUMI Dental
What causes gum recession?
Common causes include aggressive toothbrushing technique, thin gum tissue anatomy, periodontal disease, orthodontic movement, grinding and clenching habits, and certain anatomical factors. We identify the contributing cause as part of the treatment planning process to help prevent recurrence after grafting.
Is gum grafting painful?
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia. The donor site in the palate is typically the source of most post-operative sensitivity. Most patients manage recovery well with prescribed or over-the-counter pain relief and find it more tolerable than they anticipated.
Will the graft tissue match my existing gums?
Yes. The grafted tissue, whether from your own palate or from a donor tissue source, integrates with the recipient site over time and takes on the color and texture of the surrounding gum tissue. The aesthetic result typically blends very naturally.
How long does recovery take after gum grafting?
Most patients are significantly more comfortable within seven to ten days. Complete tissue integration and healing takes four to six weeks. During this time we provide specific dietary guidance and oral hygiene modifications to protect the graft site.
Can gum recession come back after grafting?
Recession can recur if the contributing causes are not also addressed. This is why we evaluate and manage factors like brushing technique, bite, and tissue thickness as part of the treatment plan. When the cause is well controlled, graft outcomes are stable long-term.