Providing Southfield, MI with Superior Gum Grafting

When we’re dissatisfied with our teeth, we often only think of braces and tooth-realignment as viable adjustments. But what about the periodontal structures—the tissues surrounding the teeth?

Gum graft surgery is a dental intervention designed to address gum recession, thinning gums, or an overly gummy smile. This procedure involves organically covering exposed tooth roots to enhance the gum line’s volume and, ultimately, your oral health. Gum grafting boasts a high success rate, lowering the likelihood of severe gum disease.

Contact our periodontal team today to discuss your treatment options and create a personalized plan that addresses your concerns and oral health.

Schedule an Appointment

Why Do My Teeth Look Longer?

When your adult teeth come in, they are at the full size they will be for the rest of your life. If you start to notice that your teeth look “longer” than normal, they haven’t grown—it’s likely a sign that your gums are receding.

Receded gums can be a serious health concern, in addition to affecting your appearance and comfort levels. Your periodontist at Michigan Gum Docs can help you determine if your gums are receding and what treatment options (like soft tissue grafting) are available to remediate the issue. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and learn more.

Schedule an Appointment

What is the Process of Dental Grafting Surgery?

Soft tissue grafting surgery is a tried-and-true method of using your own cells to regenerate healthy gum tissue over the exposed roots of teeth. Your dentist will explain the process of your treatment, but you can likely expect the following:

Local anesthesia is applied to numb the area
The roots of your teeth are deeply cleaned
An incision is made in the affected area
Your healthy gum tissue (or a donor’s) is grafted over the exposed roots
The gum tissue is carefully fixed into place
Gauze and dressing are applied for at least 30 minutes

The Benefits of Gum Tissue Grafting

Gum recession resulting from periodontal disease can lead to a “toothy” smile or an uneven appearance of the teeth. Soft tissue grafting serves as a cosmetic treatment to restore the gums’ volume and enhance the symmetry of a smile. Root exposure often brings about significant pain and discomfort, particularly when consuming hot, cold, or warm foods. Soft tissue grafts cover the exposed root, reduce sensitivity, and promote gum area health restoration.

Periodontal disease is a progressive condition that can rapidly damage soft tissue. The combination of deep cleaning procedures and soft tissue grafting can effectively stop tissue and bone loss, while also safeguarding exposed roots from further complications.

Transform Your Smile

Your questions answered.

Soft Tissue Grafting FAQs

How long does it take to recover from soft tissue grafting?

Recovery typically ranges from one to two weeks, although the process may extend beyond this timeframe. Your periodontist will monitor your post-surgery healing process and update you about care tips and the best ways to protect your oral health.

What is a “gummy smile?”

A gummy smile, also known as “excessive gingival display,” is when an abundance of gum tissue is visible above the upper teeth when smiling or opening the mouth. It’s most commonly an issue when it affects someone’s self-confidence and willingness to smile. A gummy smile can often cause the mouth shape or appearance of teeth to be uneven.

Soft tissue grafting may serve as a cosmetic enhancement to restore gum volume and create a more symmetrical smile. Speak to our periodontal team today to discuss your oral health concerns.

Does gum graft surgery hurt?

During gum graft surgery, you will be provided with anesthesia to ensure you feel no pain during the procedure. It is normal to experience some mild soreness afterward, but your periodontist will give you medication and instructions on how to manage any discomfort. The recovery process from gum grafting usually lasts around 2 weeks, and your periodontist will monitor your healing process with follow-up appointments as necessary.

Improve Confidence and Brighten Your Smile

Enjoy every urge to smile when you feel happier with the appearance of your teeth and gums. Book an appointment today to discuss your treatment options.