If you’ve noticed your gums pulling away from your teeth or are experiencing sensitivity when eating or drinking, you may be dealing with gum recession. Gum grafting is a proven procedure used to restore lost gum tissue, protect your teeth, and improve the appearance of your smile. At Periodontal Associates of Memphis, our experienced team of periodontists—Dr. Godat, Dr. King, and Dr. Byakina—specializes in this procedure and is here to help you better understand what gum grafting involves and whether it may be the right solution for you.
What Is a Gum Graft?
A gum graft is a periodontal procedure designed to restore gum tissue that has receded over time. When your gums pull away from the base of your teeth, they expose the sensitive root surfaces underneath. This not only affects the appearance of your smile but also makes your teeth more vulnerable to decay, sensitivity, and even tooth loss.
There are several types of gum grafts, and the approach used depends on your specific needs:
- Connective Tissue Graft: This is the most common type. A small flap is made on the roof of your mouth, and tissue is taken from beneath the flap to be placed over the area of recession.
- Free Gingival Graft: Tissue is taken directly from the roof of your mouth without creating a flap. This method is often used when extra thickening of the gum tissue is needed.
- Pedicle Graft: Instead of taking tissue from another area of the mouth, a flap is partially cut from the gum near the exposed tooth and pulled over the recession site. This technique is most effective when there is plenty of gum tissue adjacent to the area.
You may benefit from a gum graft if you’ve noticed symptoms such as:
- Gum recession
- Increased tooth sensitivity
- Teeth that appear longer than normal
- A notched appearance near the gumline
- Visible root surfaces
Why Gum Grafting Is Important for Oral Health
Gum tissue plays a vital role in supporting and protecting your teeth. When gums recede, they leave your tooth roots exposed, which can lead to increased sensitivity, decay, and a higher risk of infection. Gum recession may be caused by a variety of factors, including aggressive brushing, genetics, periodontal disease, or orthodontic treatment.
Left untreated, receding gums can eventually lead to:
- Loss of supportive bone around your teeth
- Tooth mobility or even tooth loss
- Difficulty maintaining proper oral hygiene
Gum grafting helps stop this progression by restoring healthy tissue to protect your teeth and improve the integrity of your gums. Beyond protecting the teeth themselves, healthy gums are a key component of overall oral health. Your gums form a seal around each tooth to keep bacteria from reaching the deeper supporting structures. A gum graft reinforces this barrier, supporting both functional and aesthetic outcomes.
What to Expect During the Gum Grafting Procedure
If you’re a candidate for gum grafting, our team will walk you through each step so you know exactly what to expect. The procedure is performed in our office, typically under local anesthesia. Sedation options may also be available if needed to help you feel more relaxed.
Here’s a general overview of the procedure:
- Preparation: The area of recession is gently cleaned, and the donor site is selected (either your own tissue or donor tissue may be used).
- Tissue Placement: The graft is carefully positioned and sutured in place over the exposed root surface.
- Healing: A protective dressing may be applied, and you’ll be given detailed instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.
Healing usually takes about 1–2 weeks, though it may vary depending on the extent of the graft and your body’s natural healing response. You’ll want to avoid brushing or flossing the treated area until your periodontist advises it’s safe to do so. Eating soft foods and maintaining excellent oral hygiene in surrounding areas are key to a successful recovery.
Our team will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor healing and make sure your gums are recovering properly. During this time, you can expect some mild swelling or discomfort, which is a normal part of the healing process.
Tips for a smoother recovery:
- Stick to soft foods such as yogurt, eggs, and cooked vegetables
- Avoid spicy or crunchy foods during the initial healing period
- Use antimicrobial mouth rinses as prescribed
- Keep up with follow-up visits so healing can be tracked
- Avoid smoking, which can delay healing
Benefits of Gum Grafts for Function and Aesthetics
Gum grafting offers multiple advantages, both for the health and the appearance of your smile. Patients who undergo this procedure often notice several improvements:
Functional Benefits
- Protection for Tooth Roots: Covered roots are less prone to decay and no longer as sensitive to temperature changes.
- Stronger Support: Replenishing lost gum tissue helps stabilize teeth and prevent further recession or movement.
- Improved Oral Hygiene: With a healthier gumline, it’s easier to brush and floss properly, reducing the risk of future issues.
Aesthetic Benefits
- A More Balanced Smile: Receding gums can make teeth look overly long or uneven. Gum grafting helps restore a more natural, symmetrical appearance.
- Increased Confidence: A fuller, healthier-looking gumline can boost your confidence when you talk, smile, or laugh.
In the long run, gum grafts support not just a better appearance but a more resilient foundation for your teeth. This can lead to improved comfort when eating, brushing, and speaking.
Is a Gum Graft Right for You?
If you’re experiencing symptoms of gum recession or have been told that your gums are thinning, it’s a good idea to speak with a periodontist. Our team at Periodontal Associates of Memphis is trained to evaluate your gum health and determine whether a graft would benefit your long-term oral wellness.
Here’s how we help determine candidacy:
- Gum and bone levels are assessed through a clinical exam and imaging
- The cause of your recession is identified and addressed to prevent recurrence
- We evaluate the amount of available donor tissue
- Your overall periodontal health is considered as part of a comprehensive care plan
Sometimes, gum grafting is just one part of a larger strategy to restore and maintain your periodontal health. Our team will work with you to design a personalized plan that addresses your needs and goals.
Take the Next Step Toward a Healthier Smile
If you think you might benefit from a gum graft, we invite you to schedule a consultation with our experienced periodontal team. Dr. Godat, Dr. King, and Dr. Byakina are here to help you feel comfortable, answer your questions, and create a plan that supports your long-term oral health.
Your smile deserves the best care—let’s protect it together. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and learn more about how gum grafting can help restore your gums, protect your teeth, and enhance your confidence.