When Do You Need a Gum Graft?

Gum grafts can help restore lost gum tissue, protect exposed roots, and create a more cosmetically appealing smile. Although a gum graft might sound like a major operation, it is a commonly performed treatment in periodontics.

If you have lost gum tissue due to gum recession, periodontal disease, or age-related changes, you might be a candidate for a gum graft. Your teeth might look longer than normal, or you may notice a darker line near the gums because the dentin is more visible on the roots. Covering the roots with a gum graft can help protect them against root decay and sensitivity, and improve the look and health of your smile.

The procedure can be done using your own tissues or donor tissues. The treatment site is numbed, and the grafted tissue is gently positioned and sutured into place. Once the graft is complete, your body’s own natural healing process will begin, and new blood vessels will start to grow, nurturing the grafted material and creating a healthy new gumline.

After your gum graft, good dental hygiene is vital. You might need to take precautions to reduce the risk of disrupting the healing tissues. Good brushing and flossing habits will reduce the risk of oral bacteria contaminating or infecting the grafting site. Call us to find out more or to schedule your appointment with our gum graft surgeon in Los Angeles.