Gum loss doesn’t scream at first. Some patients first notice gum recession when teeth begin to appear unusually long. The change may feel cosmetic, but exposure brings risk. Roots become vulnerable. Cold drinks sting. Brushing feels sharper. The line where pink used to be recedes quietly. Often, the process began years ago. But most only react when discomfort settles in.
Receding gums often follow years of aggressive brushing or untreated inflammation
The damage builds slowly. Receding gums often follow years of aggressive brushing or untreated inflammation. Stiff-bristled brushes erode soft tissue. So do grinding and clenching. Gum disease strips away support. As bone shrinks, the gum follows. Not all cases involve pain. That’s why they’re ignored. Until a dentist points it out—or sensitivity appears during routine care.
Gum grafting restores tissue by borrowing from another part of the mouth
Tissue comes from within. Gum grafting restores tissue by borrowing from another part of the mouth. The roof becomes the donor. A small strip is removed carefully. It’s then sutured where recession occurred. Over time, it integrates. Blood vessels form connections. The graft strengthens the root’s cover. Function returns before appearance. Results take weeks—but protection begins early.
Connective tissue grafts are often used for deeper, more localized gum loss
Not all grafts are identical. Connective tissue grafts are often used for deeper, more localized gum loss. This method hides the donor site beneath the surface. The tissue is harvested internally. The roof remains largely untouched. Patients feel less soreness. This technique suits exposed roots in aesthetic zones. Especially when smile lines show too much tooth. Healing remains quiet but effective.
Free gingival grafts help when thickness, not just height, needs reinforcement
Bulk brings defense. Free gingival grafts help when thickness, not just height, needs reinforcement. This graft includes both surface and connective layers. It strengthens areas prone to future recession. Orthodontic patients benefit. So do those with thin, delicate gums. These grafts create stability. They may look paler at first. But their role is structural, not just cosmetic.
Some grafts use processed donor tissue instead of taking from the patient
Tissue doesn’t always come from you. Some grafts use processed donor tissue instead of taking from the patient. These are sterile, safe, and ready-made. They reduce surgical time. Pain at the palate disappears. Integration takes longer—but still works well in many cases. Patients with multiple recession sites often prefer this route. Especially if medical conditions limit healing.
The first few days after surgery bring tightness, not sharp pain
Healing feels unfamiliar. The first few days after surgery bring tightness, not sharp pain. Talking stretches sutures. Chewing feels cautious. Cold drinks soothe. Hot ones irritate. The palate may feel raw if used as the donor. Swelling stays mild. Bruising is rare. Most patients avoid pain medications after day three. The discomfort is tolerable—but noticeable during meals.
A protective stent sometimes covers the donor site to reduce irritation
Comfort can be designed. A protective stent sometimes covers the donor site to reduce irritation. It fits over the roof, like a retainer. This prevents rubbing from the tongue. It also keeps food away. Not all surgeons use them. But for some, it changes the recovery. Speaking feels clearer. Eating returns faster. The stent falls away once healing completes.
Graft color may differ slightly from the surrounding gum during early healing
Healing doesn’t match perfectly. Graft color may differ slightly from the surrounding gum during early healing. It appears pale or swollen. The edges look raised. Stitches hold it firm. Over weeks, the tones blend. The surface evens out. Gum texture returns last. The timeline feels slow—but consistent. Most signs of surgery fade by week six.
Grafting isn’t always optional—it becomes necessary when risk of root exposure grows
Timing defines urgency. Grafting isn’t always optional—it becomes necessary when risk of root exposure grows. Deep recession leaves roots unprotected. Cavities form faster. Cleaning becomes difficult. In some cases, bone loss accelerates. Sensitivity becomes constant. Intervention at this stage isn’t for looks—it’s for function. Protecting the root saves the tooth.