Receding gums may make you feel self-conscious about your smile and create discomfort when eating or drinking. This common dental concern affects millions of Americans and can lead to tooth sensitivity, root exposure, and a raised risk of decay if left untreated. When gum tissue pulls away from your teeth, it exposes the sensitive root surfaces and creates pockets where bacteria can accumulate, potentially leading to more serious periodontal problems.
At Naylor Family Dental and Implant Center, Dr. Brian Naylor provides advanced periodontal care solutions to fix your gum health and protect your smile. Our soft tissue grafting procedures help rebuild lost gum tissue, reduce sensitivity, and improve both the function and appearance of your smile in a comfortable, welcoming environment.
Soft tissue grafting is a periodontal procedure that rebuilds receding gum tissue by transplanting healthy tissue to areas where gums have pulled away from teeth. This treatment addresses both functional and cosmetic concerns while protecting your teeth from further damage. The procedure involves taking a small amount of tissue, generally from the ceiling of your mouth or using donor tissue, and carefully placing it over the exposed root surfaces.
Research shows that 50% of people between the ages of 18 and 64 experience gum recession, making soft tissue grafting one of the most commonly needed periodontal treatments. Dr. Naylor uses modern techniques to ensure your comfort throughout the process while achieving natural-looking results that blend seamlessly with your existing gum line.
The success of grafting depends on several factors, including the extent of recession, your overall oral health, and following proper post-treatment care. Our team provides detailed instructions and support to help you achieve the best possible outcome from your procedure.
The following are the types of soft tissue grafting procedures we offer:
Free gingival grafts involve taking tissue directly from the palate and placing it over the receded area. This type of graft is particularly effective for increasing the thickness of existing gum tissue and creating a stronger barrier against future recession. The procedure creates a slightly different texture than your natural gums but provides excellent long-term stability.
Connective tissue grafts use tissue from beneath the surface layer of your palate, which is then covered by the existing flap. This approach typically provides the most natural-looking results because the graft is covered by your existing gum tissue. This method is often preferred for treating recession around visible teeth where aesthetics are particularly important.
Alloderm grafts use donated human tissue that has been specially processed to remove cells while preserving the natural structure. This eliminates the need for a second surgical site, thereby reducing discomfort and healing time. Many patients appreciate this approach because it requires only one treatment area rather than harvesting tissue from their own palate.
While improving your smile’s appearance is often a primary concern, soft tissue grafting provides numerous functional benefits that protect your long-term oral health. By covering exposed root surfaces, the procedure significantly reduces tooth sensitivity that can make eating and drinking uncomfortable. You’ll likely notice improvement in sensitivity within a few weeks as the grafted tissue heals and establishes a blood supply.
The procedure also helps prevent further gum recession by creating a thicker, more resilient band of attached tissue. This stronger foundation better resists the forces that cause recession, including aggressive brushing, clenching and grinding, and natural aging processes.
Additionally, covering exposed roots reduces your risk of root decay, which can be more difficult to treat than cavities on the crown portion of teeth.
For patients considering dental implants, adequate gum tissue is essential for proper healing and long-term success. Soft tissue grafting can prepare your mouth for implant placement or improve the appearance around existing implants that may have developed recession.
Your soft tissue grafting procedure begins with a thorough evaluation to determine the best approach for your specific needs. Dr. Naylor will discuss your options and explain the expected outcomes based on your individual situation. Local anesthesia ensures your comfort throughout the procedure, and sedation options are available if you experience dental anxiety.
The actual grafting process typically takes one to two hours, depending on the number of teeth being treated. After carefully preparing the recipient site, Dr. Naylor places the graft material and secures it with sutures. Post-treatment instructions will include specific guidelines for eating, oral hygiene, and activity restrictions to promote optimal healing.
Most patients experience mild discomfort for a few days following the procedure, which can be managed effectively with over-the-counter pain medications. You’ll return for follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress and remove sutures when appropriate. Complete healing and final results are typically achieved within several months as the grafted tissue integrates with your existing gums.
Dr. Brian Naylor brings years of experience and advanced training to every soft tissue grafting procedure, having completed his dental education at Indiana University in 2017. Our practice focuses on providing high-quality dentistry while crafting personalized treatment plans tailored to your unique needs and goals. We treat every patient with the same care and attention we would give to our own family, creating a calming and supportive atmosphere throughout your treatment experience.
If you’re experiencing gum recession or sensitivity, don’t wait for the condition to worsen. Early treatment typically provides better outcomes and may prevent the need for more extensive procedures later. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn how soft tissue grafting can restore your comfort and confidence. Call us at (702) 395-0366 or request an appointment online to take the first step toward healthier gums and a more comfortable smile.
With proper at-home oral hygiene and periodontal care, your gum grafts can last a lifetime.
