A soft tissue graft that covers receding gums, protects exposed roots and builds thicker gum around teeth and implants. Done by our surgeons and periodontists.
Gum recession happens when the gum pulls back from a tooth and exposes part of the root. It is common and often develops slowly, so many people notice it only when a tooth becomes sensitive to cold or starts to look longer than its neighbors. Brushing too hard, thin gum tissue, past orthodontic movement, grinding and gum disease can all contribute. Once the gum has receded, it does not grow back on its own.
A gum graft adds healthy soft tissue to the area. It can cover exposed roots, reduce sensitivity, protect the tooth from root decay and wear, and create a band of thicker, firmer gum that is more resistant to further recession. Around dental implants, thicker gum also helps the tissue stay stable and look natural.
Types of gum graft
- Connective tissue graft. A thin layer of tissue is taken from beneath the surface of the palate and placed under the gum at the recession site. This is the most common approach for root coverage.
- Free gingival graft. A small piece of tissue from the palate surface is used to thicken gum where there is very little firm tissue.
- Donor tissue graft. Processed donor tissue can be used instead of palate tissue, which avoids a second surgical site and can treat several teeth at once.
At Molly, gum grafts are performed by our oral surgeons and by the periodontists who work alongside them at several offices. Your surgeon will measure the recession, check the bone underneath on X-rays or a CBCT scan, and recommend the approach that fits. Platelet-rich fibrin is sometimes added to support healing.
Comfort and recovery
Gum grafting is done with local anesthetic, and IV sedation is available. Most patients take one or two days off work. The graft site is usually tender for a few days, and if tissue was taken from the palate, that area tends to be the more sore of the two for about a week. A protective palatal stent or dressing can help.
The graft attaches over the first two weeks and continues to mature for several months. How much root is covered depends on the bone and gum between the teeth, so your surgeon will give you a realistic expectation before treatment rather than a promise. You will receive one written quote, a call from your surgeon the evening after, and access to the 24/7 surgeon line while you heal.
