Gum Surgery Overview

Gum graft surgery is a proven periodontal procedure performed to treat gum recession, protect exposed tooth roots, and restore a healthy, natural gum line. In 2025, advances in surgical materials and techniques ensure improved comfort, high success rates, and rapid recovery—making gum grafting a mainstay for both oral health and cosmetic confidence.

What Is Gum Graft Surgery?

Gum graft surgery involves transplanting tissue to areas where gums have receded or thinned, exposing sensitive tooth roots. It is typically performed by a periodontist (gum specialist) and is recommended for:

• Patients with gum recession due to periodontal disease, aggressive brushing, injury, or genetic predisposition.

• Reducing tooth sensitivity caused by exposed roots.

• Preventing further bone or tooth loss.

• Improving the appearance of the smile by covering long teeth.

Techniques used:

• Connective tissue graft: The most common method, with tissue taken from under the palate.

• Free gingival graft: A thin layer of tissue taken directly from the palate.

• Pedicle graft: Gum tissue is moved from near the recession site.

• Substitute or allograft materials: Donor tissue or synthetic grafts may be used for select cases, reducing the need for a second surgical site.

Step-by-Step: The Gum Graft Procedure

1. Consultation & Planning: Your periodontist assesses gum health, recession severity, and recommends the ideal grafting method.

2. Pre-procedure Prep: Local anesthesia numbs the area; sedation as needed for comfort.

3. Tissue Harvest & Placement: Tissue is collected from the palate or a graft substitute is prepared. The graft is positioned and microsutured to the affected site.

4. Dressing & Aftercare: Protective dressing or gauze applied to stabilize the area and support healing.

Surgery duration varies (typically 1 hour for one tooth, longer for multiple sites).

Recovery Timeline and Aftercare

• First 24–48 hours: Expect mild bleeding, swelling, and discomfort. Rest, avoid strenuous activity, and take prescribed medications.

• 1–7 days: Swelling and bruising subside. Stick to a soft, cool-food diet (yogurt, smoothies), and avoid hot, spicy, or crunchy foods.

• Oral hygiene: Use antibacterial mouthwash as directed. Do not brush or floss at or near the graft site until cleared by your surgeon.

• Follow-up: Your periodontist will check healing within a week and provide further brushing/flossing instructions.

• One to two weeks: Most people can resume normal diet, careful brushing, and regular activities. Full healing may take 2–4 weeks, longer for extensive grafts.

Complications are rare, but promptly notify your surgeon if you notice heavy bleeding, pus, fever, or significant graft loss.

Benefits and Success Rates

• Covers and protects exposed roots, reducing sensitivity

• Decreases risk of future gum disease and tooth loss

• Improves smile aesthetics—making teeth appear less “long”

• Over 90% success rate when performed by an experienced periodontist

• Quick recovery; most return to work within 1–2 days

Risks and Potential Complications

• Mild discomfort, swelling, or bruising

• Infection or rare loss of the graft

• Graft failure (noted by white tissue sloughing or persistent pain: seek prompt care)

Most complications are avoidable with professional care and diligent aftercare.