Gum Grafting Explained
Understanding gum graft surgery, its types, and recovery process.
Gum grafting is a surgical procedure that addresses gum recession by transplanting tissue to cover exposed tooth roots. Three main types exist: connective tissue grafts, which use tissue from under a flap in the palate; free gingival grafts, which take tissue directly from the palate; and pedicle grafts, which use tissue adjacent to the recession site. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia. The donor tissue is carefully harvested and sutured to the recipient site, where it will integrate with existing gum tissue over several weeks. Healing typically takes two to three weeks, during which patients follow a soft diet and gentle oral care routine. Alternative materials including allografts (donor tissue) and xenografts (animal-derived tissue) are available for patients who prefer to avoid palatal harvesting. The benefits of gum grafting include reduced sensitivity, decreased risk of further recession, improved aesthetics, and better long-term tooth prognosis.