What it is
A gum graft covers the exposed root of a tooth caused by gum recession, using the patient’s own tissue, with minimally invasive techniques and local anaesthesia, within our periodontics area.
Why it’s recommended
Beyond sensitivity and cosmetic wear, an untreated gum recession can keep progressing and compromise the tooth’s support in the long term. When the case allows, we carry out the graft using periodontal microsurgery for a more precise result and a more comfortable recovery.
- Tooth sensitivity from an exposed root due to gum recession
- Visible cosmetic wear from gum recession
- Risk of the recession progressing further if left untreated
What the process looks like
- Assessing the recession We measure the degree of recession and the tissue available for the graft.
- Harvesting and grafting the tissue We take tissue from the patient (or a biocompatible substitute) and place it to cover the exposed root.
- Guided healing We monitor the graft's progress over the following weeks until it's fully integrated.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the graft tissue come from?
Usually from the patient's own palate, although in some cases biocompatible substitutes are used to avoid a second surgical site.
Does recovery hurt?
It's carried out under local anaesthesia. The after-effects are similar to a small wound on the palate or gum, and are managed with the prescribed medication.
Can the gum recede again after the graft?
With good brushing technique and regular check-ups, the result is stable long-term, although factors such as bruxism or aggressive brushing can encourage a new recession.