Gingival (or Gum) Grafting is a relatively common procedure performed by periodontists and specially trained dentists. This quick and relatively pain-free procedure is recommended for patients that have moderate to severe gum recession. Teeth that are exposed at the roots can have a “long,” darkened appearance. Not only can this cause an aesthetic issue, but it also has the potential to negatively impact your overall oral health. Healthy gum tissue functions as a protective barrier to our teeth—when they lose this protection, teeth can become overly sensitive to temperature and even cause pain when you eat or drink. Bacteria can also enter the roots, which ultimately leads to tooth loss!

Grafting procedures are typically carried out under local anesthesia. Gum tissue is harvested from one of many areas: it can be from somewhere near the effected area, somewhere from the hard palate, or even can be donated tissue from another person. There are several methods of grafting this harvested tissue, including “free gingival grafting” which takes about 45 minutes to complete. Post surgery, a soft diet and antibiotic course is recommended for about a week while the tissues fully heal. The end result is a confident and healthy gum line, free from recession or disease.