Giving Your Gums Back Their Natural Protection
A gum graft is a surgical procedure performed to correct gum recession — the gradual pulling back of the gums that leaves tooth roots exposed. At Centre Dentaire Dentown, this procedure is carried out by a periodontist whose training and experience make it possible to achieve lasting results, both functionally and esthetically.
Gum Graft
Why Do Gums Recede?
Gum recession can occur for a number of reasons. Brushing too hard or using an improper technique is among the most common causes, along with untreated periodontitis, a genetic predisposition, smoking, or certain orthodontic treatments. Over time, this recession exposes the root surface, which is normally protected by gum tissue.
Allowing recession to progress without treatment can lead to several consequences:
- Marked sensitivity to hot, cold, and sweet foods
- An increased risk of decay on exposed root surfaces
- Progressive bone loss around the affected teeth
- An unwanted esthetic effect, with teeth appearing longer
As with periodontitis, gum recession can progress without any noticeable pain. Regular clinical exams help catch it before it worsens.
How a Gum Graft Unfolds
After a complete assessment of your clinical situation, our periodontist determines the technique best suited to your case. Here are the main steps of the procedure:
- Local anesthesia: to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure.
- Harvesting the graft tissue: connective tissue is generally taken from the palate. In some cases, tissue from an external donor, processed in a laboratory, may be used instead.
- Placing the graft: the tissue is carefully positioned and sutured over the area of recession to cover the exposed roots and thicken the gum tissue.
- Recovery: mild sensitivity and moderate swelling are normal in the first few days. You will be given personalized recommendations to support optimal healing.
- Post-operative follow-up: your periodontist provides thorough follow-up to assess how well the graft has integrated and how the results are holding up over the long term.
A Procedure With Concrete, Lasting Results
Performed by a periodontist, a gum graft offers benefits that go well beyond esthetics. Thanks to specialized training in soft tissue and mastery of the most current surgical techniques, our specialist is able to work with precision, even in complex cases. By covering exposed roots, the procedure puts an end to the tooth sensitivity that can affect daily life, reduces the risk of root decay, and stops the progression of bone loss. In many cases, patients notice a marked improvement in comfort within the first few weeks after healing.
Our Approach: Precision and Support
We understand that the idea of oral surgery can feel intimidating. Our team makes sure to prepare you thoroughly for each step, answer all of your questions, and support you with care, from your first appointment through to full recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, which keeps it comfortable. Recovery is generally well tolerated, and over-the-counter pain relievers are usually enough to manage any discomfort in the first few days.
The tissue generally closes up within one to two weeks. Full integration of the graft, however, can take a few months.
In most cases, a single procedure is enough to treat the affected area. If several areas are involved, a treatment plan spread over more than one appointment may be recommended.
Many dental insurance plans partially cover this procedure when it is medically indicated. We can help you check the details before moving ahead.
Make an Appointment Today
Looking for a dentist in Saint-Léonard who provides comprehensive and accessible care? Our team is here for you. Call us at (514) 657-2001 or book your appointment online. We look forward to taking care of your smile.