Gum Grafting | Tidewater Laser Perio and Implants

Gum grafting procedure to restore receding gum tissue around teeth

Restoring Your Gum Line with Gum Grafting

When recession of the gingiva occurs, the body loses a natural defense against both bacterial penetration and trauma. When gum recession is a problem, gum reconstruction using grafting technique is an option.

When there is only minor recession present, that can mean there is enough healthy/attached gingiva remaining. With adequate attached gingiva present, the gum will continue to protect the tooth so that no treatment, other than modifying home care practices, is necessary. However, when recession reaches the mucosa, the first line of defense against bacterial penetration is lost.

In addition, gum recession often results in root sensitivity to the temperature of food/drink, sweets, as well as an unsightly appearance of the gum and tooth. When significant, gum recession can predispose to worsening recession and expose the root surface, which is softer than enamel, leading to root caries and root gouging.

How Gum Grafting Restores Gum Health

A gingival graft is designed to solve these problems. A thin piece of tissue is taken from the roof of the mouth or gently moved over from adjacent areas to provide a stable band of attached gingiva around the tooth. The gingival graft may be placed in such a way as to cover the exposed portion of the root.

The gingival graft procedure is highly predictable and results in a stable, healthy band of attached tissue around the tooth.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gum Grafting

Gum grafting, also called gingival grafting or gum reconstruction, is a periodontal surgical procedure used to treat gum recession — the gradual loss of gum tissue that exposes the root surface of the tooth. When recession occurs, the body loses its natural defense against bacterial penetration and trauma. A gum graft restores a stable, healthy band of attached gingiva around the tooth, protecting the root, reducing sensitivity, and preventing further recession. Dr. Cavallari performs gum grafting for patients throughout Virginia Beach and the greater Hampton Roads area at Tidewater Laser Perio and Implants.

Gum recession can result from periodontal disease, aggressive brushing, thin gum tissue, teeth grinding, or naturally inadequate gum tissue. Minor recession where sufficient healthy attached gingiva remains may only require modifications to home care practices. However, when recession progresses to the mucosa — the softer tissue beyond the attached gingiva — the first line of defense against bacterial penetration is lost. At this point, grafting becomes necessary to protect the tooth, prevent worsening recession, and address root exposure before more serious damage occurs.

When left untreated, gum recession leads to several progressive problems. Exposed root surfaces are significantly more sensitive to temperature changes from hot, cold, and sweet foods and drinks. Because root surface is softer than enamel, it is also more susceptible to root caries (cavities) and root gouging. Aesthetically, receded gums create a longer, uneven tooth appearance that many patients find unsightly. Perhaps most importantly, continued recession further compromises the protective tissue around the tooth, accelerating the cycle of damage.

A gingival graft involves taking a thin piece of tissue either from the roof of the mouth (palate) or gently repositioning tissue from adjacent areas to create a stable band of attached gingiva around the affected tooth. The graft may be positioned to cover the exposed portion of the root as well. The procedure is highly predictable and routinely results in a stable, healthy band of tissue that restores both the protective function and appearance of the gum line. Dr. Cavallari will determine the most appropriate grafting technique based on your specific anatomy and degree of recession.

The procedure is performed under local anesthesia so you remain comfortable throughout. Post-operatively, some tenderness at both the graft site and the donor site on the palate is expected for the first several days. Medication is provided to manage discomfort, and detailed post-operative instructions will be given to protect the graft during healing. Most patients find recovery manageable, and the long-term protection and relief from root sensitivity that grafting provides far outweighs the temporary discomfort of recovery.

Yes, in many cases. Depending on the degree of recession and the quality of surrounding tissue, a gingival graft can be placed to partially or fully cover the exposed root surface. Complete root coverage is not always guaranteed — it depends on the severity and location of the recession — but even partial coverage significantly improves protection, reduces sensitivity, and enhances the appearance of the smile. Dr. Cavallari will discuss realistic expectations for root coverage during your consultation.

Initial healing of the graft site typically occurs within one to two weeks. Full integration of the graft tissue and complete healing can take several weeks to a few months depending on the extent of the procedure and how well post-operative instructions are followed. Follow-up visits are scheduled to monitor the graft, evaluate tissue attachment, and ensure the healing process is progressing properly.

A successfully placed gum graft creates a stable, long-lasting band of attached tissue. However, the underlying causes of recession — such as aggressive brushing technique, teeth grinding, or periodontal disease — must also be addressed to prevent future recession. Dr. Cavallari will identify contributing factors and provide guidance on home care practices and any additional treatment needed to protect your results long-term.

Gum grafting performed to treat clinically significant recession, restore attached gingiva, or address root sensitivity is generally considered a medically necessary periodontal procedure and may be partially covered by dental plans including Delta Dental, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Humana. Coverage varies by plan and the number of teeth being treated. Our team at Tidewater Laser Perio and Implants will review your benefits before treatment so you have a clear picture of your costs.

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Dr. Cavallari provides a variety of surgical services for the treatment of periodontal issues. Contact us for more information.

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Gum Grafting in Virginia Beach, VA

Restoring Your Gum Line with Gum Grafting

How Gum Grafting Restores Gum Health

Frequently Asked Questions About Gum Grafting

Trust Us for Your Periodontal Needs!

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