Gum Grafts Specialist

Why do gums recede?

You may experience gum recession due to gum disease. Aggressive brushing, genetics, hormones, and poor dental care can also lead to gum recession. A gum graft is appropriate in all of these cases of recession and can improve your oral health and look. 

What are gum grafts?

During a gum graft, your provider removes a piece of tissue from the roof of your mouth or from another area of healthy gum tissue. They then reattach to the area or areas where your gums are receding. 

There are several types of gum graft. The team at Los Gatos Dental Specialists determines the type that’s best for you:

Free gingival graft

This type of graft involves removing a small piece of tissue from the roof of your mouth and attaching it to the area that needs the extra tissue. 

Connective tissue graft

Your provider removes a piece of connective tissue from a small flap that is opened in the roof of your mouth. The tissue is then stitched to the area that needs the gum tissue. 

Pedicle graft

In this type of graft, tissue is simply moved over from an area close to where you need the graft to cover the receding area. 

Am I a candidate for a gum graft?

The providers at Los Gatos Dental Specialists may recommend a gum graft if your gums have receded enough to expose the roots of your teeth. 

As your gums recede, they form pockets between your teeth and gums. Bacteria can build up in these pockets, leaving you vulnerable to gum disease and decay. 

Receding gums can also be cosmetically unappealing, so you may choose a gum graft to enhance the look of your smile.

What is recovery like after a gum graft?

Because the procedure is done on an outpatient basis, you’re able to go home the same day. 

For the first two weeks of recovery, your diet should consist of mostly soft and cold foods, like pudding, scrambled eggs, yogurt, and cottage cheese. You’re given an antimicrobial mouthwash to use for a couple of weeks to prevent infection and plaque build-up. Don’t brush or floss until your provider tells you it’s safe to do so.

The team at Los Gatos Dental Specialists schedules a follow-up appointment with you a week or two after the procedure to make sure you’re healing properly. You’ll be fully healed in about two weeks so you can resume all regular brushing and flossing. 

To learn more about gum grafts, call Los Gatos Dental Specialists or use the online tool to set up an appointment.