Gum Grafting: Treatment for Receding Gums

Understanding Gum Recession and Why Gum Grafting Is Needed

If your dentist has detected that your gums have receded substantially, you may be referred to a periodontist for a gum graft. Gum recession occurs when the tissue surrounding each tooth pulls away, exposing more of the tooth or the tooth root. This exposure can cause significant damage to the supporting bone and tooth sensitivity. Many patients experiencing gum recession may also notice symptoms associated with periodontal disease, which is one of the most common underlying causes.

Gum recession occurs over time, so you may not notice it. If left untreated, gum recession can lead to tooth loss. Advanced gum issues may even lead to conditions like combined root and gum problems, making early treatment essential. Gum grafting repairs this damage before it worsens and helps protect the health and stability of your teeth.

Patients with gum recession often experience increased tooth sensitivity, especially when consuming hot, cold, or sweet foods. Regular preventive care, including dental exams and professional cleaning, can help identify gum problems early before surgical treatment becomes necessary.

Types of Gum Grafts

Depending on your mouth’s unique needs, your periodontist will choose one of the following types of gum grafts:

Connective Tissue Graft

The most common type of graft to treat root exposure is a connective tissue graft. In the roof of your mouth, a flap of skin is cut and pulled back. The tissue underneath this flap, known as subepithelial connective tissue, is then removed and stitched to surround the exposed tooth root. Once this is finished, the flap in the roof of your mouth is also stitched down.

This procedure is often recommended for patients with moderate to severe recession caused by advanced gum disease or trauma. In some cases, connective tissue grafting may be performed alongside other procedures such as periodontal flap surgery to restore gum health more effectively.

Free Gingival Graft

A free gingival graft is similar to a connective tissue graft because it also uses tissue from the roof of the mouth. However, instead of creating a flap, tissue is directly removed from the roof of the mouth. This tissue is then attached to the area of the gums that is being treated. This graft is most often used for people with thin gums or who need additional tissue thickness for long-term protection.

Proper oral hygiene practices, including learning how to brush and floss correctly, are important to maintain results after this type of graft.

Pedicle Graft

For a pedicle graft, tissue is taken from the gums near the tooth to be repaired. The flap, known as a pedicle, is partially cut away so that one edge stays attached. The gum is stretched over the exposed root and then sewn in place. This graft can only be performed on people who have enough gum tissue near the affected tooth.

Patients with loose teeth or bite instability due to gum recession may benefit from additional evaluation for loose teeth and bite problems before treatment planning.

Tissue Bank Graft

Some patients and periodontists prefer to use graft material from a tissue bank rather than the patient’s own mouth. Tissue-stimulating proteins are added to encourage the body’s natural ability to grow bone and tissue. In certain cases, this approach may be combined with procedures like bone grafting when both gum and bone support need restoration.

When Gum Grafting May Be Recommended

Your dentist or periodontist may recommend gum grafting if you have:

• Progressive gum recession
• Tooth sensitivity
• Increased risk of tooth loss
• Thin gum tissue
• Advanced periodontal disease

If you experience sudden swelling, bleeding, or severe discomfort, it may also be related to gum emergencies that require prompt evaluation.

Protecting Your Gums After Treatment

After gum grafting, maintaining proper oral hygiene and attending regular dental visits is essential for long-term success. Preventive periodontal care and early intervention through non-surgical periodontal procedures can help prevent further gum recession and support healthy healing.