Gum recession is one of the most common oral conditions. It’s the loss of gum or bone that leaves part of the tooth root exposed.
In advanced cases, this recession affects the bone that supports the teeth, causing tooth mobility.
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Because recession usually progresses gradually, many people don’t notice it until it’s advanced that is, when the consequences appear: increased tooth sensitivity and the visible impression that more tooth is showing than normal.
A gum graft is the recommended treatment to correct this problem.
Why do gums recede?
Causes of gum recession
There are several reasons gums can recede:
- Periodontal disease: Both gingivitis and periodontitis develop from tartar (calculus) buildup, which ultimately leads to loss of supporting bone.
- Aggressive brushing: Brushing too hard and using very hard bristles can damage the gum tissue.
- Trauma: A heavy blow can cause injuries not only on the outside of the mouth but also on the inside.
- Orthodontics: If tooth position within the dental arch isn’t controlled during treatment, recession can appear after orthodontics.
- Genetics: Gingival biotypes vary; some are very thin and more prone to recession, while others are thicker and recede less easily.
- Smoking: Tobacco can contribute to gum loss because it restricts blood flow and impairs the immune system. As a result, bacterial action and the advance of periodontal disease can occur more easily.
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What is a gum graft?
Gum graft procedure explained
A gum graft consists of taking soft tissue from a donor site to cover an exposed tooth root (or implant).
This procedure is performed by a Periodontist the dentist specialized in gum health.
Depending on the severity of recession and the condition of the gums, there are two main approaches:
- Coronally advanced flap: A portion of gum near the area is gently lifted and repositioned stretching it to cover the exposed root. There’s no separate donor site; the gum protecting the affected tooth is used.
- Palatal tissue harvest: If there isn’t enough local gum to perform a coronally advanced flap, tissue is taken from the palate. This is the most commonly used technique: a sample of palatal tissue is harvested and grafted onto the site in need of repair.
Within techniques that harvest tissue, there are two types of graft:
- Free gingival graft: A full-thickness piece from the palate is placed intact on the recipient site. It’s commonly used when the goal is to increase gum thickness and resilience.
- Connective tissue graft: The palatal sample is separated and selected to protect the damaged area (connective layer), and the remaining tissue is returned to its original location.
Is a gum graft painful?
A gum graft is not painful, since the dentist uses local anesthesia, which eliminates discomfort during the procedure.
For patients with dental anxiety, we also offer conscious sedation to provide greater comfort throughout treatment.
Surgery typically lasts about 60 minutes, whether done with a coronally advanced flap or palatal tissue.
After surgery, sutures are placed and are removed 1–2 weeks later, depending on the case.
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What possible complications can occur after gum-graft surgery?
What to expect after a gum graft
When the patient’s own tissue is used, there is no risk of rejection. However, if there’s excessive movement in the treated area after surgery, the graft can fully necrose.
Note that some superficial necrosis of the graft is normal and not a cause for alarm. You may also see bruising in the area or neck, along with swelling.
A color change is expected: first whitish, then yellowish, and finally a pinkish tone.
What are the postoperative care instructions for a gum graft?
Post–gum graft care recommendations
- Do not rinse the area on the day of surgery. Starting the next day, rinse gently with salt water twice a day for one week (let it bathe the área no vigorous swishing).
- On the day of surgery, consume only soft, cold foods.
- If bleeding occurs, place a dry gauze and apply light pressure by biting or with a finger.
- Avoid brushing the graft site to prevent suture disruption.
- Do not pull your lip to look at the graft this can dislodge it.
- Take all medications as prescribed by your periodontist.
What are the benefits of a gum graft?
How a gum graft improves your oral health
- Partial or complete recovery of the lost gum.
- Increased gum thickness.
- Longer protection for teeth or implants helping them last more years and lowering the risk of loss.
- Reduced tooth sensitivity by covering the exposed root.
- Improved smile esthetics, since teeth no longer look elongated.
How much does a gum graft cost?
Approximate price of a gum-graft procedure
At Dr. Daniel Fernández’s clinic, a gum graft costs $8,500 MXN per area.
If you’d like to book an evaluation or want more information about gum grafts, please contact us through any of our channels.
This information is general in nature. Because a gum graft is a surgical procedure, a professional consultation is the first step to a complete and safe evaluation.
For a gum-graft evaluation, schedule your appointment via WhatsApp, phone call, or through our contact form.
