Gum Grafting in Fort Worth

Why gums recede

Gum recession happens when the edge of the gum wears away or pulls back, uncovering part of the root. It often creeps up slowly, so many people do not notice until a tooth looks longer or a spot becomes sensitive.

Several things can cause it. Brushing too hard with a firm brush is a common one. Gum disease, grinding or clenching, naturally thin gums, crooked teeth, lip or tongue piercings, and past orthodontic movement can all play a part. Often it is a mix.

Recession can affect one tooth or many. It is often found during a routine exam, when your dentist measures how much root is showing and compares it with past visits.

Why exposed roots are a problem

Roots are not covered with enamel the way the crown of a tooth is. They are softer and more prone to decay and wear. Many people feel a sharp zing when cold air or drinks hit an exposed root.

Once recession starts, it tends to continue if the cause is not addressed. The thin band of firm gum that protects the tooth can disappear, leaving the area more fragile. Adding tissue back restores that protective layer.

There is also a cosmetic side. Uneven gums can make some teeth look longer than others, and that can affect how comfortable you feel smiling. Grafting can even things out while protecting the tooth at the same time.

Types of gum grafts

There is more than one way to graft gum tissue. The right choice depends on how much recession you have, how thick your gums are, and your own preferences.

We will explain why we recommend one type over another and what that choice means for your healing.

Donor tissue is processed and screened by licensed tissue banks and has been used in dentistry for many years. For many patients, it means one less sore spot and a gentler recovery.

• Connective tissue graft, using tissue from under the palate surface
• Free gingival graft, using surface tissue to thicken thin gums
• Donor tissue graft, which avoids a second site in your mouth
• Pedicle graft, sliding nearby gum over the root when there is enough

Gum grafting in Fort Worth: what the day looks like

Most gum grafting in Fort Worth at our practice is done in a single visit with local anesthetic. The area is numbed, the root surface is cleaned, and the graft is placed and secured with tiny stitches. If tissue comes from your palate, a protective dressing or covering may be placed there.

Several teeth can often be treated at once, which can mean fewer total appointments. Sedation is available for those who want it. Plan to take it easy the rest of the day, and a Friday appointment can make that easier.

Healing and caring for your graft

For the first couple of weeks, avoid brushing or flossing the grafted area, and skip chewing on that side. We may give you a special rinse to keep it clean. Soft, cool foods are easiest. The palate, if used, is often the sorest spot, and it usually heals within a week or two.

The graft keeps maturing for a few months. It may look a little different in color at first before it blends in. Once healed, a softer toothbrush and a gentle technique will help protect your results.

Call us if bleeding does not slow with light pressure, if swelling keeps growing after a few days, or if the graft looks like it has moved. Most healing goes smoothly, but we would rather hear from you early. You will have a check visit within the first couple of weeks so we can see how things are settling.

Can recession be prevented?

Not all recession can be avoided, but much of it can be slowed. Use a soft brush and light pressure. Treat gum disease early. If you grind your teeth, a night guard may help. Regular checkups mean small changes are caught before they need surgery.

If you live near the TCU area or Westover Hills, our Hulen St. office is close by for gum checks that keep recession on our radar.