Your gums form the foundation of your smile, but when they start to recede, more than aesthetics is at stake. Exposed tooth roots lead to heightened sensitivity, increased risk of decay, and potential complications that worsen over time. A gum graft restores what recession has taken away, rebuilding the protective barrier your teeth need while giving you back the comfort and confidence you deserve.
At Dental Group of Chicago, we know how busy life gets, and dental issues can feel like one more thing on an already full plate. That’s why our team makes periodontal care straightforward and accessible. We’re open extended hours so you can get the care you need without disrupting your schedule. We’ll guide you through every step of treatment and explain exactly what a gum graft involves so you feel comfortable and confident about the path forward.
What Is a Gum Graft?
A gum graft is a procedure in which healthy gum tissue is placed over areas where the gums have receded. This tissue may come from the roof of your mouth or from donor tissue. The goal is to cover exposed tooth roots and rebuild the protective barrier your gums naturally provide.
Gum recession doesn’t just affect how your smile looks. It can make teeth more sensitive to hot and cold temperatures. Exposed roots are also more vulnerable to decay. A gum graft addresses both the functional and cosmetic concerns related to receding gums.
The procedure is typically performed in our office. After numbing the area, we carefully place the graft tissue over the affected site and secure it in place. Most patients experience minimal discomfort and can return to normal activities within a few days.
Why You Might Need a Gum Graft
Several factors can lead to gum recession. According to the American Dental Association, chronic periodontitis affects nearly half of adults over 30 in the United States. This condition can cause the tissue and bone supporting your teeth to deteriorate over time.
Other causes of gum recession include aggressive brushing, genetics, and teeth grinding. Sometimes gum recession happens gradually, so you might not notice it until you experience sensitivity or see changes in your smile.
If left untreated, gum recession can worsen. You might notice increased sensitivity when eating or drinking. The exposed roots can also develop cavities more easily than other parts of your teeth. A gum graft helps prevent these issues and protects your long-term oral health.
Types of Gum Grafts
At Dental Group of Chicago, we offer a range of graft types to meet your needs.
Connective Tissue Graft
A connective tissue graft is the most common. We take tissue from under the top layer of skin on the roof of your mouth and attach it to the area where your gums have receded.
Free Gingival Graft
A free gingival graft takes tissue directly from the roof of your mouth rather than from beneath the surface. This type is often used when you need thicker gums in a particular area.
Pedicle Graft
A pedicle graft uses tissue from the gums near the affected tooth. We create a flap of tissue and move it over to cover the exposed root. This option works well when there is sufficient healthy gum tissue adjacent to the recession.
What to Expect During Recovery
After your procedure, you may experience some swelling or mild discomfort. We provide clear instructions for caring for your gums as they heal. You may need to stick to soft foods for a few days and avoid brushing the treated area until we give you the go-ahead.
Most patients return to their regular routines within a week. Following our post-treatment guidelines helps promote healing and reduces the risk of complications. If you have any concerns during recovery, we’re available to answer your questions.
The grafted tissue needs time to integrate with your existing gums. You may see some changes in appearance as the area heals. Once fully recovered, the graft provides lasting protection for your teeth and roots.
Caring for Your Gums After Treatment
Good oral hygiene becomes even more critical after a gum graft. You’ll need to be gentle when brushing around the treated area. We can show you proper techniques to clean your teeth without disturbing the graft site.
Regular teeth-cleaning appointments help us monitor your gum health and catch potential issues early. Staying on top of your oral care routine at home and in our office gives your graft the best chance to succeed.
If you grind your teeth or have other habits that contribute to gum recession, we can help you address those issues. A custom nightguard may protect your teeth and gums while you sleep.
Schedule Your Gum Graft Exam at Dental Group of Chicago
Your oral health affects your quality of life. We’re here to help you understand your options and make informed decisions about your care. Our practice is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., plus Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., so that you can find an appointment time that fits your schedule.
Dr. Isabella Duarte and our entire team provide personalized care in a welcoming environment. We accept a variety of insurance plans, including Delta Dental, MetLife, Cigna, BlueCross BlueShield, Guardian, and United Healthcare. If you have questions about gum grafts or want to schedule an exam, contact our office today.
