Gums play a vital role in your oral health, supporting your teeth and protecting the roots beneath. When gum recession occurs—whether due to gum disease, genetics, brushing too hard, or other factors—it can lead to sensitivity, aesthetic concerns, and even tooth loss. One of the most effective treatments to restore gum tissue and prevent further damage is gum grafting.
At Stadium Dental, we provide gum grafting procedures using advanced techniques and a gentle approach to help patients achieve healthier, stronger gums and a confident smile. In this blog, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from what gum grafting is, who needs it, what to expect, and how it compares to leaving gum recession untreated.
What is Gum Grafting?
Gum grafting is a minor but highly specialised surgical procedure aimed at treating gum recession. When your gum tissue pulls away from the tooth, it exposes the root, making the tooth more sensitive and vulnerable to decay or damage. Gum grafting involves adding new tissue to the affected area to rebuild the gumline, protect the teeth, and restore oral health.
There are three main types of gum grafting techniques:
- Connective Tissue Graft
This is the most commonly used method. A small flap is made in the roof of the mouth to access connective tissue underneath, which is then placed over the exposed tooth roots and stitched in place. - Free Gingival Graft
In this method, a thin layer of tissue is taken directly from the roof of the mouth (not just beneath the surface) and applied to the gum area needing more coverage. This is often used for patients with naturally thin gums. - Pedicle Graft
Instead of taking tissue from another part of the mouth, this method involves partially cutting a flap of gum tissue near the affected tooth and stretching it over the receded area. It’s ideal when there is plenty of healthy gum tissue near the tooth.
In some cases, donor tissue from a tissue bank may be used instead of taking tissue from your own mouth—especially for those with multiple affected teeth or sensitive palates.
Who is Gum Grafting For?
Gum grafting is suitable for patients experiencing various degrees of gum recession. You may benefit from the procedure if you have:
- Visible root exposure, where teeth look unusually long or uneven
- Increased sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks
- Receding gums due to gum disease, ageing, or trauma
- Inflamed or bleeding gums during brushing or flossing
- Plans for cosmetic or restorative dental work requiring strong, healthy gums as a foundation
- Thin or fragile gum tissue that makes you more prone to recession
Even if gum recession is not causing discomfort now, it’s a progressive condition. Early intervention through gum grafting can prevent more extensive (and expensive) treatments down the line.
What to Expect During the Procedure
At Stadium Dental, we prioritise your comfort and ensure each step of the gum grafting procedure is tailored to your individual needs. Here’s a more detailed look at what to expect:
1. Initial Consultation and Diagnosis
We start with a full examination of your teeth and gums, often using imaging like X-rays to determine the severity of gum recession. We’ll also review your medical history and discuss any symptoms or concerns.
2. Treatment Planning
Based on the diagnosis, we’ll determine which type of graft is most appropriate for your situation. You’ll be informed of all options, including whether your tissue will be used or donor tissue.
3. Local Anaesthesia or Sedation
To ensure a pain-free experience, we use local anaesthetic to numb the affected areas. For anxious patients, we can discuss mild sedation options to help you stay relaxed throughout the procedure.
4. Tissue Harvesting and Placement
Depending on the technique, tissue will be harvested and delicately placed over the exposed root area. The graft is then sutured in place with dissolvable stitches or stitches that can be removed in a follow-up visit.
5. Recovery and Aftercare
Post-procedure, you may experience minor discomfort, swelling, or a sensation of tightness in the treated area. Healing typically takes 1 to 2 weeks, and we’ll provide specific aftercare instructions, including:
- Eating soft foods (yoghurt, mashed potatoes, soup) for the first few days
- Avoiding brushing or flossing the graft site until healed
- Using prescribed antimicrobial rinses to keep the area clean
- Taking pain relief medication as advised
Most patients return to normal activities within a couple of days, and full healing occurs over the following weeks. Follow-up appointments allow us to monitor healing and ensure the graft is successfully integrating.
Benefits of Gum Grafting Over Leaving Recession Untreated
Gum grafting is a preventive and restorative procedure with numerous short- and long-term benefits. Here’s why it’s worth considering:
Reduces Tooth Sensitivity
Exposed roots are highly sensitive. Covering them with healthy tissue significantly reduces discomfort when eating or drinking.
Improves Gum and Tooth Health
Receded gums leave your teeth more vulnerable to decay, plaque build-up, and even tooth loss. Grafting helps stop that progression.
Restores a Natural, Balanced Smile
Gum grafting improves the symmetry of your smile and corrects teeth that appear too long.
Boosts Oral Hygiene
Healthier, fuller gums are easier to clean and maintain, reducing your risk of future gum disease.
Long-Term Protection
It reinforces weak areas of gum tissue, preventing further recession and the complications that follow.
In contrast, ignoring gum recession can lead to bone loss, tooth mobility, and eventually tooth loss—issues that are far more complex and costly to treat.
Book a Gum Graft Consultation with Stadium Dental
If you’ve noticed your gums pulling back or you’re experiencing sensitivity, don’t wait for the issue to worsen. Gum grafting is a safe, effective way to restore gum health, enhance your smile, and prevent long-term complications.
Call Stadium Dental today or book your personalised consultation online.
Our friendly and experienced team is here to answer your questions, guide you through the treatment process, and help you smile with confidence again.