What Is Gum Grafting? Gum Recession Treatment Explained

Can gum tissue that has been lost from gum recession be replaced? In many cases, yes. Gum grafting is a periodontal procedure designed to treat gum recession, cover exposed tooth roots when appropriate, and strengthen thin gum tissue.

In this video, Dr. John Ku of W Plus Dental in Washington, DC explains what a gum graft is, why it may be recommended for patients with receding gums or thin gum tissue, and how the procedure can help create a healthier, thicker foundation around the teeth.

What Is a Gum Graft?

A gum graft is a procedure used to add gum tissue to an area where the gums have receded or where the existing tissue is naturally thin.

Depending on the type of gum grafting procedure and the patient’s needs, the grafting material may come from:

• A small amount of tissue carefully taken from the roof of the patient’s mouth
• Donor tissue obtained from a tissue bank

The graft is carefully positioned around the area of recession and secured with sutures so it can heal and integrate with the surrounding gum tissue.

How Does Gum Grafting Treat Gum Recession?

When gums recede, the tooth root can become exposed and the gum tissue surrounding the tooth may be very thin. Gum grafting can help:

• Cover exposed tooth roots in appropriate cases
• Increase the thickness and volume of the gum tissue
• Strengthen thin gums
• Help protect the tooth from additional gum recession
• Create a healthier environment around the tooth
• Improve the appearance of the gumline

In the before-and-after case shown in this video, the gum tissue before treatment is extremely thin with visible recession. After gum grafting, the tissue has significantly more thickness and volume, creating a stronger and healthier foundation around the tooth.

Click to see more before and after images.

If you have gum recession, exposed tooth roots, sensitive teeth, or naturally thin gums, a periodontal evaluation can help determine whether gum grafting may be appropriate for you.

Looking for treatment for gum recession in Washington, DC or wondering whether you may need a gum graft? Contact W Plus Dental to schedule a consultation and learn which treatment options are appropriate for your gums.