Can Gum Grafting Improve the Look of My Smile?

When gum disease progresses to more advanced stages, gum recession can occur. This causes the gumline to shrink and tooth roots to be exposed. At Premier Periodontics, we perform gum grafting or soft tissue grafting to improve how the gumline looks and to protect these tooth roots from any sensitivity or pain. Our periodontal specialists use different grafting techniques for gum recession treatment. We will create a custom treatment plan to improve your smile. Contact one of our locations in Bellevue, Everett, Kirkland, Mercer Island, Olympia, or Redmond, WA to schedule an appointment to learn more about how we can restore your oral health.

Causes of receding gums

Gum recession is when a portion of gum tissue that surrounds the teeth wears away or pulls back. This exposes the tooth root, which allows pockets to form between the teeth and the gumline, which makes it susceptible to harmful bacteria.

There are many reasons why gums recede, including:

• Aggressive tooth brushing: When you brush the wrong way or too hard, it can lead to the wearing away of your tooth enamel, which can cause gum recession.

• Hormonal changes: Pregnancy and menopause can make the gums more sensitive.

• Periodontal disease: This bacterial gum infection destroys gum tissue and the bone that holds your teeth in place.

• Poor oral hygiene: Poor brushing and flossing make it easier for plaque to harden into tartar. Both can lead to receding gums.

• Teeth grinding or clenching: Both put too much force on the teeth, which can lead to gum recession.

• Misaligned bite: When the teeth don’t come together properly, too much force is placed on the gums and the supporting bone.

When left untreated, the supporting tissue and bone structures of your teeth can be damaged and lead to a receding gumline. While this is common, most people don’t realize they have gum recession because it occurs gradually. Usually, the first sign of gum recession is tooth sensitivity. When you believe your gums are receding, it’s important to make an appointment to discuss treatment options available.

Who is the best candidate for gum grafting?

Receding gums impact how your teeth look, making them look longer. When the gumline recedes, exposed tooth roots lack the protection needed, leading to tooth sensitivity. Gum grafts are used to repair this gum recession, which is caused by periodontal disease. A consultation with our periodontal team at Premier Periodontics can help you to learn if your smile can benefit from gum grafting.

What is gum grafting?

There are different types of grafts used during gum grafting surgery. Though it is minimally invasive, we do numb the treatment areas with a local anesthetic. Our periodontists make a pinhole-sized opening, known as the Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique (PST).

Through this small opening in the gums, we gently move receded tissues back to their desired positions through this entry point. This will help cover exposed roots. Returning the gumline to a healthier place offers almost immediate protection. Thin pieces of collagen are placed between the teeth and gums to hold the gumline in its new location while it heals. Minor swelling may be noticeable the first few days after gum grafting, but it should resolve quickly.

Learn how to treat receding gums with gum grafting

Premier Periodontics performs gum grafting to help patients repair their receding gums. This gum recession treatment improves your oral health and how your smile looks. When you suspect you have gum recession, schedule an appointment with our periodontal specialists at one of our locations throughout Washington in Bellevue, Everett, Kirkland, Mercer Island, Olympia, or Redmond.