Straightforward care, start to finish
Protects the exposed root
Once the root is covered again, it’s shielded from decay, wear, and everyday temperature changes.
A small procedure
It’s done in one visit under local anaesthetic. Most people are back to normal within a week or two.
Less sensitivity
Covering the root usually settles the sharp twinge from cold drinks and cold air.
Protecting the root underneath
When gums recede, the root of the tooth gets exposed, which can mean sensitivity, a higher risk of decay, and teeth that look longer than they should. A gum graft restores that lost tissue and covers the root back up.
It sounds more dramatic than it is. It’s a small, careful procedure with a quick recovery, and we’ll walk you through every step beforehand so you know exactly what to expect.
What to expect
01
Check the recession
A quick exam shows how far the gum has pulled back and why. We explain what we see in plain language.
02
The graft
We numb the area, place new tissue over the exposed root, and secure it. It’s usually one visit.
03
Healing & aftercare
You go home with simple aftercare. We check the healing at a follow-up and make sure it settled well.
A gum graft can help with
- Sensitive, exposed tooth roots
- Noticeable gum recession
- Teeth that look “long” as gums pull back
- Protecting a tooth from further recession
- Evening out an uneven gumline
- Supporting long-term gum health
Frequently asked questions
Why do gums recede?
Common causes include hard brushing, gum disease, grinding, and genetics. We’ll help identify the cause so it doesn’t keep happening.
Does a gum graft hurt?
The procedure is done with full numbing, so you’re comfortable throughout. Any tenderness afterward is usually mild and short-lived.
How long is recovery?
Most people are back to normal within a week or two, following simple aftercare we’ll give you. We’ll check the healing at a follow-up.
Where does the new tissue come from?
Often from the roof of your mouth, or a donor source when that’s a better fit. We’ll explain the options and recommend what suits your case.
Related treatments
Periodontal Therapy
Treating the gum disease behind recession, so the graft has a healthy base to hold.
Crown Lengthening
Reshaping the gumline the other way, when teeth look short or the gums sit low.
New Patient Exams
New here? Start with a thorough look and a written plan with real prices.