Your smile is an integral part of your appearance. While oral cosmetics are frequently associated with the teeth’ size, shape, and color, the gums also play an important role. When gingival tissues begin to recess, your teeth may look oversized and uneven. You may experience sensitivity due to receding gums or notice a change in your gum line.
Soft tissue grafting is often used to restore the gum line using a bio-compatible grafting material attached to the gums to protect the tooth surface. The resulting augmentation produces restored dental symmetry and eliminates a toothy smile.
At Pinnacle Periodontics and Dental Implants, we offer expert soft tissue grafting in Matthews near Charlotte, NC, to restore gum health, improve aesthetics, and protect your teeth from further damage. Our periodontics and implantology specialist delivers precise, advanced care tailored to your needs.
What Is Soft Tissue Grafting?
Soft tissue grafting is a periodontal procedure used to treat receding gums (a condition where the gum tissue surrounding the teeth wears away, exposing more of the tooth or its root). This can lead to tooth sensitivity, increased risk of decay, and an unbalanced smile.
A soft tissue gum graft helps restore lost gum tissue, protect tooth roots, and improve the appearance of your smile. Dr. D’Silva, our periodontics and implantology specialist in Matthews, uses cutting-edge techniques to ensure your gum graft procedure is comfortable and practical and results in long-term oral health benefits.
Did you know?
Gum recession can be more than just a cosmetic problem. When exposed, the enamel below the gum line is more prone to decay and tooth sensitivity. A receding gum line can risk your long-term dental health, potentially causing cavities, bone loss, additional gum recession, and even tooth loss.
Types of Soft Tissue Grafting
There are several types of tissue grafting procedures, and the best one for you will depend on your specific needs and the severity of your gum recession. However, the main types include:
Connective Tissue Graft
Connective tissue graft is the most common type of gum graft surgery. It involves taking tissue from underneath the surface of the roof of your mouth (palate) and placing it over the exposed tooth root. This method is ideal for treating one or more areas of receding gums.
Free Gingival Graft
This method also uses tissue from the roof of the mouth, but it is taken directly from the surface rather than underneath. Free gingival grafts are often used for patients who need to thicken existing gum tissue rather than cover exposed roots.
Pedicle Graft
This procedure removes tissue from adjacent gum areas and rotates to cover the affected site. Pedicle grafts require healthy gum tissue near the target tooth and are often used in cases of minor gum recession.
Dr. D’Silva will help determine the most effective grafting option for your situation when you schedule a free consultation at our dental office in Matthews, North Carolina.
The Graft Surgery Procedure and Recovery
Before your graft surgery, our specialist will thoroughly evaluate your gum condition and discuss the best approach for your tissue grafting needs. The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia and may take 1–2 hours, depending on the number of teeth involved.
During the Procedure
Our periodontist will extract a small piece of tissue from the palate or nearby gums. Then, the graft is carefully placed and secured over the receding gums. The area is sutured, and a protective dressing may be applied.
Recovery
Most patients experience minimal discomfort after a gum graft. Over-the-counter pain relievers and soft food can manage mild swelling or soreness. You’ll be given detailed post-op instructions to ensure optimal healing. However, we recommend that you:
- Avoid brushing or flossing the treated area until advised
- Stick to a soft-food diet for the first few days
- Use an antimicrobial mouthwash as prescribed
- Come in for follow-up visits for healing assessment
Full recovery typically takes 1–2 weeks, gradually improving gum appearance and function.
Restore Your Smile Appearance with Soft Tissue Graft Surgery in Matthews near Charlotte
At Pinnacle Periodontics & Dental Implants, our goal is to restore your smile’s health and appearance using advanced techniques and compassionate care. Suppose you’re struggling with receding gums or have been told you may need a soft tissue gum graft. In that case, we invite you to schedule a consultation with our trusted periodontics and implantology specialist in Matthews, NC.
Contact us today to learn how soft tissue grafting protects your teeth and rejuvenates your smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I a candidate for soft tissue grafting?
Generally, soft tissue grafting is recommended once the gingival tissue has reached the mucosa. However, you may be a candidate for soft tissue grafting if you have a noticeable gum line recession that is a source of embarrassment and a risk to your oral health.
What should I expect during a soft tissue grafting procedure?
If you decide to undergo soft tissue grafting, your procedure will take place in your oral health provider’s office. The grafting site will be numbed, and the existing gum tissue will be loosened to make room for the graft. The grafting material is sutured in place, and you will return home the same day as your procedure.
How long is the recovery period following soft tissue grafting?
After your procedure, it is normal to experience some soreness and swelling at the grafting site. However, this will subside after a few days as your tissue graft recovers. Be sure to follow your post-procedural guidelines exactly as ordered by your oral surgeon, and take any prescriptions as instructed. Sutures usually dissolve or will be removed within a few days, and you should notice a significant improvement in the appearance of your gums within a few weeks. However, remember that soft tissue grafts take several months to heal completely.
