Frequently Asked Questions

What is gum grafting?

Gum grafting, also known as gingival grafting, is a surgical procedure used to treat receding gums. When your gums recede, they expose the roots of your teeth. Without proper treatment, this increases your risk of decay, increased sensitivity, and even tooth loss. 

During a gum grafting procedure, your SEDA Dental provider takes a piece of healthy tissue from the roof of your mouth or your surrounding gums, and attaches it to the area where your gums have worn away. 

How do I prepare for a gum grafting procedure?

There’s no special preparation required for a gum grafting procedure. Simply show up at the office on the day of your scheduled appointment. 

That said, you do need to arrange for a ride home. Following surgery, you’re given pain medications that may make it unsafe to drive. 

Are there different types of gum grafting?

At SEDA Dental, the team performs several different types of gum grafting, including:

Free gingival graft
If you have gums that are thin and receding, your SEDA Dental provider might recommend a free gingival graft. During this type of gum grafting procedure, your dentist removes a small piece of tissue from the roof of your mouth and stitches it to the area of your mouth that has weak or damaged tissue. 

Connective tissue graft
The most common gum grafting procedure is a connective tissue graft. During this type of operation, your SEDA Dental provider creates a small flap on the roof of your mouth and removes tissue from beneath it. Your dentist then takes that tissue and stitches it to an area of your mouth that has weak or damaged gum tissue. 

Pedicle graft
If you have plenty of healthy gum tissue in your mouth, your SEDA Dental provider might recommend a pedicle graft. During a pedicle graft, your dentist creates a flap of tissue right next to your receding gums. After creating the flap, your dentist stretches it to cover your receding gums. Since pedicle grafts don’t require your dentist to cut and transport tissue, they’re also the most successful type of gum graft.

What is recovery like following a gum grafting procedure?

Following gum grafting surgery, you’re sent home with a list of recovery instructions. During the first few weeks after your operation, try to eat soft foods such as soup, applesauce, and yogurt to prevent damage to your graft. 

You’re also asked to use an antimicrobial mouthwash. This helps prevent infection and keeps plaque from building up on the surfaces of your teeth. Don’t floss or brush your gum graft until your dentist says it’s OK to do so. You should also avoid strenuous exercise or taxing physical activities. 

If you’re concerned about receding gums, schedule a gum grafting consultation at SEDA Dental today by calling the office nearest you or by clicking the online booking tool.