When gum recession occurs, the body loses a natural defense against both bacterial penetration and trauma. When recession on a tooth or dental implant is a problem, gum reconstruction using grafting techniques is an option.

With minor recession, some healthy gum tissue often remains to protect the tooth, so no treatment other than modifying home care practices is necessary. However, when recession is 3mm, or reaches the softer mucosa, treatment is necessary to restore your natural defense against bacterial penetration.

Progressive gum recession is unsightly and often results in root sensitivity to hot and cold foods. A soft exposed root surface is more at risk for decay, root gouging, and tooth loss.

Your gums may have receded for a variety of reasons including genetics, periodontal disease; poor bite alignment, or aggressive tooth brushing. You may not be in control of what caused the problem, but we will help identify the cause and how to treat it. Once these contributing factors are controlled, a “gum” graft can repair the defect and help prevent additional recession and bone loss.

A gum graft usually involves two surgeries in one.  Firstly, the area about to receive the graft (recipient site) is prepared and then a piece of gum is taken from a second site (donor site) and placed into the recipient area. The donor site is usually on the roof of the mouth where there is lots of gum tissue.  This area eventually heals completely without even a scar.  The recipient site heals gradually over a few weeks and also eventually heals without any sign of the previous recession.  Gum grafting is a predictable and safe procedure.  Patients are always given an antiseptic mouthwash and antibiotics after the operation to ensure infection does not affect the healing of both surgical areas. Between them, the periodontists at BDS have done hundreds of these procedures with great success.