Soft tissue grafting rebuilds areas where gum tissue has receded or been lost, helping cover vulnerable tooth roots and create healthier tissue around teeth or dental implants. If your gums have pulled away from your teeth, this technique may strengthen the gumline and improve its appearance.
Pacific Northwest Periodontics serves Seattle, WA, with specialized periodontal and implant care, including soft tissue grafting. Our team includes Dr. Jung Song and Dr. Riccardo Di Gianfilippo, who are diplomates of the American Board of Periodontology. Dr. Di Gianfilippo has also conducted research involving gingival recession and periodontal plastic surgery.
Dr. Jung Song is staff periodontist at the Seattle Children’s hospital and specializes in gum grafting in childrens. She is also certified Pinhole Minimally Invasive Gum Grafting procedures.
What Happens When Your Gums Recede?
Healthy gums form a protective seal around your teeth. When gum tissue recedes, more of the tooth or its root becomes exposed. You might notice that a tooth looks longer, your gumline seems uneven, or cold foods suddenly bother an area that never felt sensitive before.
Recession may be associated with gum disease, aggressive brushing, smoking, genetics, or tooth positioning. Finding out why your gumline changed matters because correcting the underlying cause can help reduce the chance of additional recession.
How Does a Soft Tissue Graft Help?
During soft tissue grafting, the periodontist adds gum tissue where it is thin or missing. Depending on your needs, they might take tissue from another location in your mouth and place it around the affected tooth.
A graft can cover exposed root surfaces, add thickness to a thin gumline, and provide more durable tissue around the tooth. It may also reduce root sensitivity and make the gumline appear more even.
Soft tissue grafting may also be useful for dental implants. Adequate soft tissue can help support a healthy, stable environment around an implant. Pacific Northwest Periodontics performs this treatment around both natural teeth and implants.
What Is Recovery Like?
You’ll need to be gentle with the graft as it heals. Soft foods are usually recommended early in recovery, and you’ll need to avoid brushing or flossing directly over the surgical site until your periodontist tells you it’s safe.
Some soreness, swelling, or minor bleeding can occur. Many people return to their usual activities within a few days, although the graft itself continues healing for longer.
Give Receding Gums the Care They Need
Gum recession often progresses quietly, so a professional evaluation is worthwhile when you notice exposed roots, sensitivity, or changes in your gumline. A provider at Pacific Northwest Periodontics in Seattle, WA, can assess your gum tissue and discuss grafting when appropriate. Contact us at 206-575-1086 to schedule an appointment.
