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Gum grafts treat gum recession—when gums pull away from teeth exposing roots. This condition makes teeth appear larger and increases decay/bone loss risk. The procedure restores gums and oral health through surgery by a periodontist (gum disorder specialist).
What Is a Gum Graft?
Gum grafts treat gum recession—when gums pull away from teeth exposing roots. This condition makes teeth appear larger and increases decay/bone loss risk. The procedure restores gums and oral health through surgery by a periodontist (gum disorder specialist).
Types of Gum Grafts
Connective tissue grafts: Most common; tissue taken from under palate skin, attached to affected gums.
Free gingival grafts: Uses tissue directly from palate surface rather than underneath.
Pedicle grafts: Graft sourced from nearby gum tissue; partially cut flap remains attached, pulled over exposed root, then sutured.
Alloderm grafts: Uses processed donated human tissue instead of patient's mouth tissue.
Free gingival grafts: Uses tissue directly from palate surface rather than underneath.
Pedicle grafts: Graft sourced from nearby gum tissue; partially cut flap remains attached, pulled over exposed root, then sutured.
Alloderm grafts: Uses processed donated human tissue instead of patient's mouth tissue.
How Much Do Gum Grafts Cost?
Costs range $600 to $1,200 per tooth depending on graft area extent and teeth count. Dental insurance typically covers part or all costs as a disease-prevention surgical procedure.
Cost factors include:
• Graft type complexity and materials
• Geographic location (urban areas higher than rural)
• Periodontist experience and reputation
Cost factors include:
• Graft type complexity and materials
• Geographic location (urban areas higher than rural)
• Periodontist experience and reputation
Why Would You Need a Gum Graft?
Nearly 60% of gum recession cases involve people over 65. Key reasons include:
Tooth sensitivity: Exposed roots cause discomfort with temperature/acidic foods.
Aesthetic concerns: Receding gums make teeth appear abnormally long.
Prevent further damage: Prevents tooth decay and bone loss by covering exposed roots.
Improve oral health: Reduces cavity and periodontal disease risks.
Tooth sensitivity: Exposed roots cause discomfort with temperature/acidic foods.
Aesthetic concerns: Receding gums make teeth appear abnormally long.
Prevent further damage: Prevents tooth decay and bone loss by covering exposed roots.
Improve oral health: Reduces cavity and periodontal disease risks.
Gum Graft Procedure
The gum graft procedure involves three main phases:
1. Before the Surgery
Periodontist consultation assesses teeth/gum health. They measure periodontal pockets; five millimeters or more indicates potential graft need.
2. During the Surgery
Local anesthesia numbs the area. Optional sedatives include nitrous oxide or IV sedation. The periodontist makes incisions, cleans exposed roots, places tissue graft (typically from palate), and sutures it. Surgery takes approximately one hour per tooth.
3. After the Surgery
Gauze controls bleeding (removable after one hour). Sutures typically fall out independently; remaining ones removed at follow-up. Initial diet consists of soft, cool foods (yogurt, smoothies, ice cream, pudding). Brushing/flossing the graft area is initially restricted; antibacterial mouthwash recommended instead.
Within 48 hours, bleeding subsides; soft foods like pasta, fish, cooked vegetables gradually introduced. Prescribed or OTC pain relievers manage discomfort. Swelling/bruising diminish within two weeks. Normal brushing, flossing, and diet resume after periodontist clearance.
Within 48 hours, bleeding subsides; soft foods like pasta, fish, cooked vegetables gradually introduced. Prescribed or OTC pain relievers manage discomfort. Swelling/bruising diminish within two weeks. Normal brushing, flossing, and diet resume after periodontist clearance.
How to Pay for Gum Grafts
Insurance: Dental insurance often covers partial or complete costs when deemed medically necessary for preventing oral health complications.
Dental Financing: Options include medical loans, dental credit cards, or grants. Plans allow spreading costs over months/years with potentially low or zero interest rates depending on credit and terms.
Dental Financing: Options include medical loans, dental credit cards, or grants. Plans allow spreading costs over months/years with potentially low or zero interest rates depending on credit and terms.
How Can I Prevent Receding Gums?
• Floss daily and brush twice daily
• Use soft-bristled toothbrushes (hard bristles damage gum line and enamel)
• Use mouthwash
• Avoid tobacco (chewing and smoking)
• Follow dentist cleaning recommendations
• Use soft-bristled toothbrushes (hard bristles damage gum line and enamel)
• Use mouthwash
• Avoid tobacco (chewing and smoking)
• Follow dentist cleaning recommendations
Is a Gum Graft Worth it?
Yes—protects teeth from damage, reduces sensitivity, and improves smile aesthetics. Benefits of preventing tooth decay and bone loss justify the investment.
Gum GraftDental CostsGum RecessionPeriodontal Treatment