Restoring Gum Coverage and Protecting Tooth Roots
When gum tissue recedes, the root surfaces of the teeth become exposed. This can lead to sensitivity, increased risk of decay, and changes in the appearance of the smile. Gum grafting restores coverage by adding healthy tissue to vulnerable areas—reinforcing support and protecting teeth from further damage.
Beyond comfort, restoring gum tissue plays an essential role in maintaining long-term periodontal health and tooth retention.
What Is Gum Grafting?
Gum grafting is a surgical procedure that places healthy tissue over areas where the gumline has receded. The graft establishes a new blood supply, thickens the gum tissue, and integrates gradually with surrounding structures.
At DGY Dentistry, grafting is customized based on tissue quality, the extent of recession, and overall oral health. The goal is to restore a stable, resilient gumline that supports both function and appearance.
Gum grafting may be recommended when:
- Gum recession exposes tooth roots
- Sensitivity occurs due to exposed dentin
- The gumline appears thin, uneven, or unstable
- Preventing further recession and bone loss is a priority
The Gum Grafting Process at DGY Dentistry
Gum grafting is performed with careful sequencing and attention to comfort. The procedure typically takes one to two hours.
Preparation
Local anesthetic is used to numb both the donor and recipient sites. Depending on your needs, the graft may be obtained from your own tissue (autograft) or from a sterile donor source (allograft).
Graft Placement
The graft tissue is precisely positioned over the exposed root area and secured with fine sutures. Careful placement ensures stability while the graft establishes a blood supply and begins to integrate.
Healing & Integration
Over the following weeks, the graft blends with surrounding tissue and matures. Detailed aftercare instructions—including hygiene guidance, dietary modifications, and activity limitations—support predictable healing and graft success.
Autograft vs. Allograft: Understanding Your Options
- Autograft: Uses tissue from the roof of your mouth. This option integrates very predictably and has a long history of success.
- Allograft: Uses processed donor tissue, eliminating the need for a second surgical site and often reducing post-operative discomfort.
We evaluate your individual needs and discuss which option best supports comfort, healing, and long-term stability.
Why Choose DGY Dentistry for Gum Grafting in Ann Arbor?
Gum grafting requires refined technique and careful tissue handling. At DGY Dentistry, every graft is planned with attention to gum health, bite forces, and long-term support for the teeth.
Our approach emphasizes:
- Conservative, precise surgical technique
- Individualized graft selection
- Comfort-focused care and sedation options
- Detailed aftercare and follow-up
Each procedure is designed to protect your teeth and restore balance with minimal disruption.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gum Grafts
Gum recession may result from aggressive brushing, periodontal disease, tooth grinding, orthodontic movement, or trauma. Identifying and addressing the underlying cause is essential to protecting results after grafting.
The procedure is performed with local anesthetic, so discomfort during treatment is minimal. Some soreness during healing is normal and typically managed with ice and over-the-counter medication.
Initial healing usually occurs within a few weeks, with continued tissue maturation over several months. We provide specific guidance to support healing at each stage.
Grafted tissue is designed to remain stable. However, recession can occur elsewhere if contributing factors—such as brushing technique or grinding—are not addressed.
Many insurance plans provide partial coverage when grafting is required for periodontal health. We review benefits and provide transparent estimates prior to treatment.
Restoring Tissue Health with Precision
If you have receding gums causing sensitivity, discomfort, or aesthetic concerns, we invite you to schedule a consultation at DGY Dentistry. Gum grafting can protect your teeth, restore comfort, and support long-term oral health—guided by precision and care.
