In plain English
What a gum graft involves
A gum graft treats recession, where the gum has pulled back from a tooth and left part of the root uncovered. Roots have no enamel. Once exposed they are sensitive to cold and touch, wear and decay more easily, and make the tooth look long. In a graft, the periodontist takes a small piece of tissue, most often from the roof of your mouth, and stitches it over the exposed root like a thin patch, or uses it to thicken gum that is too fragile. Processed donor tissue can be used instead, which avoids taking anything from the palate. The procedure covers and protects the root, reduces sensitivity, helps stop the recession advancing and evens out the gum line. It is unusual in leaving two places to heal: the grafted area, which must stay completely undisturbed while it attaches, and the donor site on the palate, which many people find the more uncomfortable of the two.
- 01
Exam and measurements
The periodontist measures how far the gum has receded on each tooth, checks how thick the remaining gum is and looks for the cause, such as hard brushing or gum disease. The teeth are usually cleaned before surgery day.
- 02
Numbing both sites
Local anesthesia is given at the teeth being treated and, if your own tissue is used, in the palate. The palate injection is the part people tend to notice most.
- 03
Preparing the root and the gum
The exposed root surface is cleaned and smoothed. The gum beside it is gently loosened to create a pocket or flap that the graft can be tucked under and fed by.
- 04
Collecting the tissue
A small piece of tissue is taken from the roof of the mouth, either from beneath a flap or from the surface. If donor tissue is used, it is trimmed to size instead.
- 05
Stitching the graft in place
The tissue is positioned over the root and secured with very fine sutures so it cannot shift. The donor site on the palate is also closed or covered.
- 06
Dressing and aftercare
A putty-like dressing may be placed over the graft, and some people are given a thin plastic shield for the palate. You leave with instructions on eating, cleaning and what not to touch.
Who it is usually for
A gum graft is usually recommended when recession is exposing roots and is getting worse, when the exposed roots are sensitive or starting to wear, when the remaining gum is very thin, or when the appearance of long teeth is a concern. Minor recession that is stable may only need monitoring, a softer brush and a gentler technique. A dentist may also suggest desensitizing treatments, or tooth-colored bonding over a worn notch at the gum line. If gum disease is present, it is treated first. Ask your periodontist whether donor tissue is an option for you, what is driving the recession, and how likely it is to progress without surgery.
Fig. 2 — What to expect
What to Expect During Gum Graft
- 01Tissue harvested from palate or donor source
- 02Tissue attached to area with recession
- 03Sutures placed to hold graft
- 04Special dressing may be applied
Before you agree to it
Questions to ask about your gum graft
Questions about my gum graft
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Table 1 — Common reasons
When You Might Need Gum Graft
- ATreating gum recession
- BProtecting exposed roots
- CReducing sensitivity
- DImproving smile appearance
Table 2 — Recovery after Gum Graft
Recovery After Gum Graft
When can you resume normal activities? Here's a quick guide:
| Activity | Wait |
|---|---|
| Use a Straw | 1 week |
| Eat Normally | 2-3 weeks |
| Smoke | 2+ weeks |
| Drink Alcohol | 1 week |
| Drive | 24 hours if sedated |
| Exercise | 1-2 weeks |
Table 3 — Common questions
Frequently Asked Questions About Gum Graft
Which hurts more after a gum graft, the graft or the roof of the mouth?
Many people say the palate. The grafted area is often just tender and tight, while the donor site is a raw patch that your tongue and food keep finding, and it is commonly compared to a bad pizza burn. A protective shield or dressing helps. When donor tissue is used there is no palate wound at all.
Can a gum graft fail?
Yes. Most take, but a graft needs to stay still to pick up a blood supply, so pulling the lip to look, brushing the area too soon, or smoking can jeopardize it. The tissue also changes color as it heals, which can look alarming. Your periodontist checks it at follow-up and will tell you what is expected.
Will the recession come back after a graft?
It can if the original cause continues. Scrubbing with a hard brush, untreated gum inflammation and certain bite or tooth-position problems all put the new tissue under the same stress. Grafted gum is usually thicker and more resistant than what was there before. Ask your dentist or periodontist to review your brushing technique once healing is complete.
How long does a gum graft take?
A gum graft typically takes 1-2 hours and requires 1-2 visits. The exact duration depends on the complexity of your case and whether any complications arise.
How much does a gum graft cost?
A gum graft typically costs between $600 and $3,000, with an average of $1,200. With dental insurance that covers it, out-of-pocket cost is often around $300–$800, depending on your plan, deductible and annual maximum. Factors affecting cost include your location, the dentist's experience, and case complexity.
Does a gum graft hurt?
During the procedure, you shouldn't feel pain because local anesthesia is used to numb the area. Pain level during recovery is typically rated 3/5. Some discomfort, sensitivity, or soreness is normal for a few days after the procedure and can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Medical disclaimer
The information provided on Urgent Dental Helper is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is NOT intended to be a substitute for professional medical or dental advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Urgent Dental Helper is not a dental practice, and nothing here has examined your mouth. Always see a licensed dentist, physician, or other qualified health provider in person about any dental or medical condition. Never disregard professional advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read or any result you received on this website.