Gum Grafting
Also called: Gingival graft or periodontal plastic surgery
Gum grafting is a treatment to cover exposed tooth root surfaces. Receding gums is usually caused by periodontal disease resulting from heavy tartar buildup. Care for gum disease is usually treated by periodontists, who are experts in gum care.
What to expect
There are three different types of gum tissue grafts:
Connective-tissue graft
Most common treatment where your dentist will take a small piece of tissue from under the surface of the roof of your mouth and then place it to the gum tissue surrounding the exposed root.
Free gingival graft
Typically used if you have thin gums, your dentist will take a small piece of tissue directly from the surface of the roof of the mouth (your palate) and attach it to the treated area.
Pedicle graft
During this procedure, your periodontist will move gum tissue from an area next to the tooth with recession. Your periodontist will only do this procedure if there is enough gum tissue in the area.
After the procedure
Your periodontist will discuss the next steps to ensure a healthy recovery. You will be given a special mouth rinse to help control plaque buildup and may be prescribed an antibiotic to reduce risk of infections.
Routine preventative care like regular dental check-ups, brushing and flossing are important to preventing gum disease from reoccurring.