What is a gum graft?
A gum graft is a minor surgical procedure that covers tooth roots exposed by gum recession, or thickens thin gum to protect the tooth from further recession. It's at the heart of gum surgery. This guide was written under the supervision of Dr. Banan Alhawamdeh, specialist in periodontics and gum surgery.
When might you need a gum graft?
- Recession that exposes the root and causes sensitivity to cold or brushing.
- Recession that keeps progressing even after improving your brushing.
- Very thin gum before orthodontics or around an implant.
- Cosmetic reasons: front teeth that look longer than others, or uneven gums.
- Decay or wear on the exposed root.
Types of gum graft
| Technique | The idea |
|---|---|
| Connective tissue graft | Thin tissue is taken from the palate and placed under the gum of the receded area; the most common way to cover roots |
| Free gingival graft | A layer from the palate is used to thicken the gum, mainly to strengthen thin gum |
| Pedicle (sliding) flap | Neighbouring gum is moved over the root, when there's enough gum next to it |
| Tissue substitutes | Medically prepared materials used instead of palate tissue in some cases |
We choose the technique based on the degree of recession, the number of teeth, gum thickness and the bone between the teeth.
How is it done?
- Cleaning and treating any gum inflammation first.
- Local anaesthetic.
- Preparing the site and taking tissue if needed.
- Securing the graft with fine stitches.
- A follow-up after one to two weeks to remove stitches and check healing.
Recovery
- Mild to moderate discomfort for a few days, more noticeable on the palate if tissue was taken from it.
- Soft, cool food for the first days, chewing on the other side.
- No brushing or flossing the area until the dentist says so, using the prescribed mouthwash instead.
- No smoking; it's one of the main reasons grafts fail.
What result can you expect?
How much of the root can be covered depends on the degree of recession and the bone and gum between the teeth. In suitable cases the root can be covered fully or largely; in others the goal is to stop the recession and strengthen the gum. We explain the expected result for your case before starting. To keep it: a soft brush and gentle brushing, treating teeth grinding if present, and regular cleanings.
Frequently asked questions
Does receded gum grow back on its own?
Receded gum doesn't grow back by itself, but recession can be stopped by treating its cause, and roots can be covered with a gum graft in suitable cases.
Is a gum graft painful?
It's done under local anaesthetic, followed by manageable discomfort for a few days, controlled with usual painkillers.
How long does a graft take to heal?
Initial healing takes about two weeks, and the gum continues to mature and settle into shape for several weeks after.
Gum consultation in Amman
If your teeth look longer or you feel sensitivity at the neck of a tooth, early assessment gives better results. See gum treatment and surgery at Dr. Banan Alhawamdeh's clinic in Sweifieh, or book an appointment.