Gum grafting is a surgical procedure that rebuilds receded gum tissue, covering exposed tooth roots and protecting them from sensitivity, decay, and further recession. At Wilmette Dental in Wilmette, IL, our doctors coordinate gum grafting care with trusted periodontal specialists when surgical intervention is necessary, ensuring patients receive expert treatment while maintaining continuity of care at Wilmette Dental for long-term management.
Understanding Gum Recession Causes
Gum recession occurs when gum tissue pulls away from the tooth, exposing the root surface beneath. This exposes an area of the tooth that lacks the protective enamel covering the crown, making it vulnerable to sensitivity, decay, and structural damage.
Common Causes Of Gum Recession Include:
- Aggressive brushing technique with excessive pressure
- Periodontal disease causing tissue and bone destruction
- Genetic predisposition to thin or fragile gum tissue
- Teeth grinding or clenching, placing excessive force onthe gum tissue
- Tobacco use affecting gum health and healing capacity
- Trauma or injury to the gum tissue
Recession typically develops gradually over time, making it easy to overlook until significant root exposure has occurred.
When Gum Grafting Is Recommended
Gum grafting is recommended when recession has exposed tooth roots, causing sensitivity, when roots are vulnerable to decay without gum coverage, when recession is progressing despite improved oral hygiene, when bone loss accompanies tissue recession, or when recession affects smile aesthetics.
Early intervention prevents further recession and protects tooth structure before damage occurs.
Types Of Gum Graft Procedures
Several grafting techniques are used depending on the extent of recession and the tissue availability.
Connective tissue graft
Harvests tissue from beneath the palate and places it over the exposed root. This is the most common grafting technique and produces predictable, natural-looking results.
Free gingival graft
Removes tissue directly from the palate surface and attaches it to the recession site. This technique is used when thicker tissue is needed to increase gum thickness.
Pedicle graft
Uses tissue adjacent to the recession site, partially detaching it and repositioning it over the exposed root. This technique is only appropriate when adequate tissue exists next to the recession.
Donor tissue graft
Uses processed donor tissue from a tissue bank, eliminating the need to harvest tissue from the patient's own palate. This reduces post-operative discomfort and healing time.
Your periodontal specialist selects the most appropriate technique based on the location and extent of recession and the tissue characteristics.
Protecting Tooth Roots & Bone
Exposed tooth roots are vulnerable to decay, sensitivity, and structural damage. Gum grafting restores protective coverage, sealing the root surface from bacterial exposure, reducing sensitivity to temperature and pressure, preventing root surface decay, and supporting the bone beneath the gum tissue.
Grafting also halts the progression of recession, preventing further exposure that would otherwise continue without intervention.
Healing & Recovery Expectations
Recovery from gum grafting typically requires one to two weeks for initial healing. Mild discomfort, swelling, and sensitivity are normal during this period and are managed with prescribed medications and a soft food diet.
Post-surgical care includes:
- Avoiding the grafted area when brushing initially
- Rinsing gently with the prescribed antimicrobial rinse
- Eating soft foods and avoiding sharp or crunchy items
- Managing discomfort with prescribed pain medication
- Avoiding smoking, which significantly impairs healing
The graft gradually integrates with surrounding tissue over several weeks to months, producing a stable, natural-looking result.
Sensitivity Reduction Benefits
One of the most immediate benefits of gum grafting is the dramatic reduction in root sensitivity. Patients who have lived with chronic sensitivity to cold, heat, or pressure often notice meaningful improvement within weeks of grafting as the newly covered roots are protected from exposure.
Long-Term Gum Health Support
Following successful grafting, maintaining the result requires consistent oral hygiene with proper brushing technique, regular professional cleanings and periodontal evaluations, use of a soft-bristled toothbrush with gentle pressure, and a nightguard if grinding or clenching contributed to recession.
Our doctors monitor grafted areas at routine maintenance visits to ensure long-term stability and intervene early if any concerns develop.
Protect Your Roots, Preserve Your Smile
At Wilmette Dental, our doctors coordinate gum grafting care with periodontal specialists and provide ongoing support to ensure the best possible outcomes. We remain involved in your care throughout treatment and beyond. Call our Wilmette, IL office or book online if you’re experiencing gum recession. We’ll evaluate your situation and coordinate the care you need.