If you’ve noticed a tooth that suddenly looks a little longer than it used to (wait, what?), or you wince every time you sip something cold, your gums might be trying to tell you something. Gum recession is one of those problems that creeps up quietly until it becomes more and more noticeable—at least to you.
At Pine Belt Periodontics in Hattiesburg, Dr. Brian Pitfield and his team see patients with gum recession every week. Fortunately, it isn’t something you just have to live with. Indeed, gum grafting surgery is a well-established, highly effective way to address it.
What Is Gum Recession?
Gum recession happens when the gum tissue surrounding your teeth pulls back, exposing more of the tooth and, sometimes, even the root underneath. It’s gradual, which is exactly why so many people don’t notice it until it’s fairly advanced.
Common culprits include:
- Brushing too hard. Aggressive brushing (or using a hard-bristled toothbrush) wears away gum tissue over time.
- Periodontal disease. Bacteria below the gumline breaks down the tissue and bone that hold your teeth in place.
- Genetics. Some people are simply born with thinner or more fragile gum tissue.
- Teeth grinding and misalignment. Excess pressure on certain teeth can push gum tissue away.
- Tobacco use. It restricts blood flow to the gums, making them more prone to recession.
Unlike a lot of dental issues, gum recession doesn’t grow back on its own. Once the tissue is gone, it’s gone. That’s where gum grafting comes in.
Signs You May Need a Gum Graft
Not every case of mild recession needs surgery right away (or at all). That doesn’t, however, mean you should ignore the warning signs. Talk with a periodontist if you’re noticing:
- Increased sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
- A tooth that looks visibly longer than its neighbors
- A notch or dip where the tooth meets the gumline
- Roots that are visibly exposed
- Gums that look uneven from tooth to tooth
Left untreated, exposed roots are more vulnerable to decay. This can eventually contribute to bone loss around the tooth. Catching it early usually means a simpler, more predictable treatment.
Types of Gum Grafts
Not all gum grafts are the same, and part of your consultation at Pine Belt is figuring out which approach is best for your specific case.
Connective tissue graft. This is the most common technique for treating gum recession. A small amount of tissue is taken from beneath the surface of the palate and stitched over the exposed root, then covered with the surrounding gum tissue. Because the tissue comes from under the skin, healing at the donor site tends to be faster.
Free gingival graft. Similar to a connective tissue graft, but the tissue is taken directly from the surface of the palate rather than underneath it. This method is often used for patients who need to build up thicker, sturdier gum tissue. It’s often recommended for naturally thin gums.
Pedicle (lateral) graft. Instead of pulling tissue from the palate, this technique uses gum tissue from right next to the affected tooth, partially detaching it and sliding it over to cover the exposed root. It’s only an option when there’s enough healthy tissue nearby, but when it applies, it avoids a second surgical site altogether.
There are also grafting materials that don’t require a donor site at all, which can be a good option depending on the extent of recession and a patient’s preference. Dr. Pitfield will walk you through which technique makes sense based on how much tissue is available, how many teeth are affected, and your long-term goals.
What to Expect at Pine Belt Periodontics
Your first visit starts with a full evaluation. That includes assessing the extent of the recession, the health of the surrounding bone, and whether anything else (such as grinding or a bite issue) is contributing to the problem. From there, Dr. Pitfield lays out a treatment plan and talks through which grafting technique fits your situation.
Most gum grafts are completed in a single appointment. At the start of the procedure, the area will be fully numbed. Depending on the technique and the number of teeth involved, you’re typically looking at somewhere between 30 minutes and a couple of hours in the chair.
Pine Belt’s team is known for keeping patients comfortable and informed throughout the process. In fact, several past patients mention Dr. Pitfield’s habit of explaining what’s happening every step of the way and even checking in personally the day after treatment.
Recovery and Results
Most patients describe recovery as more manageable than they expected. (Phew.) Mild swelling and tenderness are normal and typically improve within a week.
The first few days after the procedure, you’ll want to stick with soft foods and avoid spicy or acidic foods (such as citrus fruits). You’ll also want to avoid brushing directly over the treated area. And of course, please follow the aftercare instructions you’re given.
Initial healing generally takes one to two weeks, though the tissue continues to mature and settle for a few months afterward. As for the surgery itself, the procedure day usually takes between 30 minutes and two hours, depending on how many teeth are being treated and which grafting method is used.
The results are meant to last. Once the graft has healed and integrated, it protects the root, reduces sensitivity, and helps prevent further recession at that site. That is, as long as you keep up with good oral hygiene and regular periodontal checkups.
FAQ
What is a gum graft?
A gum graft is a periodontal procedure to restore gum tissue lost to recession. This is typically accomplished by adding tissue from the palate (or a donor source) over the exposed area of a tooth’s root.
How long does gum graft surgery take?
Most gum graft procedures take between 30 minutes and two hours, depending on how many teeth are involved and which grafting technique is used.
Is gum graft surgery painful?
The procedure itself is done under local anesthesia, so you shouldn’t feel pain during surgery. Afterward, most patients report mild soreness that’s manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.
How do I know which type of graft I need?
That depends on how much tissue you have available, how many teeth are affected, and your overall gum health. Dr. Pitfield will recommend the right approach during your consultation.
If you’re dealing with sensitive teeth, exposed roots, or gums that just don’t look like they used to, don’t wait for it to get worse. Schedule a consultation with Pine Belt Periodontics in Hattiesburg by calling (601) 264-2424, and let Dr. Pitfield and his team help you protect your smile for the long run.