If you have noticed tooth sensitivity or gums that appear to be pulling back from your teeth, gum recession is likely the cause, and gum graft surgery is one of the most reliable ways to correct it. The procedure involves taking tissue, typically from your palate or a donor source, and using it to rebuild the gum line over exposed tooth roots. Gum grafting has a 90% success rate, helping decrease sensitivity and restore the function of your gums and teeth.
At Legacy Oral Surgery and Implants, we understand you may feel nervous about getting a procedure like gum grafting, but we will do everything we can to prioritize your comfort and safety. We review the details of your condition, your specific needs, and all treatment options so you get the right solution and feel confident about the outcome, using the latest technology and techniques to achieve the best results possible.
What Is Gum Grafting?
Gum grafting is a periodontal procedure that adds tissue back to areas where the gum line has receded, covering exposed roots and stabilizing the surrounding tissue. It is a different procedure than a gingivectomy or crown lengthening, which reshape existing gum tissue rather than add new tissue. Our compassionate specialists understand the gum graft process can feel confusing, so we walk through every step and answer your questions before the day of your procedure.
5 Reasons Gum Graft Surgery May Be Right for You
Our team reviews every treatment option with you, but depending on the severity of your condition, you may need gum graft surgery. Typically, we recommend gum grafting to those with the following issues:
Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity occurs when the tooth’s root is exposed, leaving it unprotected from cold, hot, and sugary foods. This often results from receding gums. Gum grafting can cover these exposed roots and replace the gum tissue that has pulled back.
Risk of Future Gum Recession
If you notice your gums receding early on, you may consider gum grafting to prevent the issue from worsening. Alternatively, if your family has a history of receding gums, gum graft surgery can prevent tooth root exposure and long-term discomfort before it starts.
Tooth Decay
Leaving receding gums untreated for too long can leave your teeth vulnerable to decay due to root exposure. Gum grafting may be the right solution for this condition, as it helps protect your teeth and keeps them from loosening or falling out.
Unhappy With Your Smile
Beyond making your teeth more susceptible to damage, receding gums can also make you insecure about your smile. Gum graft surgery can improve the appearance of your teeth and gum line and help you feel more confident.
Loss of Supporting Bone
In addition to damaged teeth, gum recession can lead to the loss of the bone that holds your teeth in place. This can eventually lead to tooth loss and a weakened jaw bone if left untreated. If you have receding gums, gum grafting can help restore the function of your gums and prevent the surrounding bone from weakening further.
Types of Gum Grafts
Not every gum graft is performed the same way. Depending on how much tissue you need and where it is coming from, your oral surgeon may recommend a graft using tissue taken directly from your palate, a graft that uses gum tissue from next to the affected area, or one that relies on donor tissue from a licensed tissue bank rather than a second surgical site in your mouth. Learn more about how soft tissue grafting supports both gum health and appearance. Your surgeon will recommend the approach best suited to the size and location of your recession during your consultation.
What to Expect During Recovery
Most patients experience some bleeding and swelling in the first 24 to 48 hours, with noticeable improvement over the following few days. According to Cleveland Clinic, full recovery generally takes one to two weeks, though healing time can vary depending on how many areas were treated. Sticking to soft, cool foods early on and following your surgeon’s aftercare instructions helps the graft take hold successfully. If you want to track your healing day by day, our guide on how to know your gum graft is healing properly walks through what is normal at each stage.
Am I a Candidate for a Gum Graft?
Not every case of gum recession requires surgery right away. If recession is caught early and mild, your dentist may first suggest nonsurgical steps, such as adjusting your brushing technique or treating any underlying gum disease. A gum graft typically becomes the recommended path once recession is causing ongoing sensitivity, visible root exposure, a gum edge thin enough to keep receding, or concerns about your smile that nonsurgical care will not resolve. A consultation with our team is the best way to find out which category your case falls into and what timeline makes sense for you.
Reach Out to a Trustworthy New Jersey Specialist About Gum Grafting at Legacy Oral Surgery
Gum recession is a common dental condition that affects 88% of people over 65. One of the most effective solutions is gum graft surgery, which replaces receded gum tissue with either donated material or tissue from another location in your mouth. Getting surgery can feel overwhelming, but our top-notch specialists at Legacy Oral Surgery can answer all your questions and take every step to make sure you feel relaxed throughout the process.
With state-of-the-art technology and updated methodologies, you can count on getting the best dental care available. We strive to provide this level of care at a reasonable price by maximizing reimbursement from your insurance. You deserve the highest quality treatment possible, and we set ourselves apart by supporting you every step of the way. To speak with a specialist about gum graft surgery, fill out our contact form.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gum Grafting
How painful is gum graft surgery?
Most patients feel more discomfort in the days following surgery than during the procedure itself, since local anesthesia keeps you comfortable throughout. Any soreness is typically managed with over-the-counter or prescribed pain relief and improves markedly within the first week.
Where does the tissue for a gum graft come from?
Tissue is often taken from your own palate, though donor tissue from a licensed tissue bank is also a common alternative when it better fits your treatment plan.
How long do the results of a gum graft last?
A successful gum graft is intended to be a long-term solution, though maintaining good oral hygiene and addressing habits like aggressive brushing helps protect the results over time.
Will insurance cover gum graft surgery?
Coverage varies by plan and depends on whether the recession is linked to a diagnosed dental condition. Our office can help you understand your benefits and estimate your out-of-pocket cost before scheduling.
How soon can I eat normally after a gum graft?
Most patients stick to soft, cool foods for the first several days and gradually return to a normal diet as the graft site heals, typically within one to two weeks.
