Gum Grafting in Houston, TX
What Is Gum Grafting?
Gum grafting is a periodontal procedure used to treat receding gums by restoring lost gum tissue around the teeth. When gums recede, the roots of the teeth become exposed, which can lead to tooth sensitivity, root decay, and an increased risk of tooth loss.
At North Houston Periodontics & Dental Implants, gum grafting is performed to protect exposed tooth roots, strengthen the gum line, and improve the appearance of your smile. Patients from Houston, Champion Forest, Greenwood Forest, Kleinwood, and Memorial Northwest often seek treatment when gum recession begins to affect their comfort or oral health.
Our team provides advanced periodontal care using modern diagnostic technology and personalized treatment planning. Under the care of Dr. Daniel Ho, patients receive focused treatment designed to restore healthy gum tissue and protect their long-term dental health.
What Causes Gum Recession?
Several factors can lead to gum recession, including:
- Periodontal (gum) disease
- Aggressive brushing or improper brushing technique
- Thin or genetically susceptible gum tissue
- Teeth grinding or bite misalignment
- Poor oral hygiene
When gum recession is caused by periodontal disease, treatment may include gum disease treatment and ongoing periodontal maintenance to protect the health of the gums and surrounding bone.
Signs You May Need Gum Grafting
Gum grafting may be recommended if you experience:
- Teeth appearing longer due to receding gums
- Tooth sensitivity to hot or cold
- Visible tooth roots
- Thin or fragile gum tissue
- Progressive gum recession
A thorough evaluation using dental imaging and digital dentistry helps determine the best treatment plan for restoring gum health.
Types of Gum Grafting
Depending on your condition, different techniques may be used:
- Connective tissue grafts – the most common technique, using tissue from beneath the palate surface to cover exposed roots
- Free gingival grafts – used to thicken thin gum tissue
- Pedicle grafts – reposition nearby gum tissue to cover the exposed area
Some patients may also benefit from the minimally invasive Pinhole Surgical Technique for certain types of gum recession.
What to Expect During Treatment
Gum grafting is typically performed in-office using local anesthesia to ensure comfort. For patients with dental anxiety, sedation and sleep dentistry may be available.
The procedure generally involves:
- Preparing the treatment area
- Obtaining donor tissue or graft material
- Placing the graft over the exposed root
- Securing the tissue to promote healing
Most patients return to normal activities within a day or two.
Benefits of Gum Grafting
Gum grafting helps restore healthy gum tissue and prevent further damage to the teeth.
Key benefits include:
- Reduced tooth sensitivity
- Protection from root decay
- Prevention of further gum recession
- Improved appearance of the gum line
- Better support for treatments such as dental implants
Our office also uses advanced diagnostic tools such as 3D cone beam CT scanning to support precise periodontal care.
Maintaining Healthy Gums
After treatment, maintaining healthy gums is essential. Preventive care may include:
- Consistent brushing and flossing
- Regular periodontal checkups
- Professional cleanings such as deep cleaning
- Treatment for bite issues through bite adjustment if needed
Early treatment of gum disease can help prevent future gum recession.
FAQs
What is gum grafting used for?
Gum grafting treats gum recession by covering exposed tooth roots and restoring lost gum tissue. This helps reduce sensitivity and protect teeth from further damage.
Is gum grafting painful?
The procedure is performed with local anesthesia, so patients typically experience minimal discomfort. Mild soreness after the procedure is common but manageable.
How long does recovery take?
Initial healing usually takes about one to two weeks, although full healing may take several weeks depending on the type of graft.
How long do gum grafts last?
With proper oral hygiene and regular periodontal care, gum grafts can provide long-term protection against further gum recession.
Request an Appointment for Gum Grafting in Houston, TX
If you are experiencing receding gums or tooth sensitivity, gum grafting may help restore your gum health and protect your smile.
North Houston Periodontics & Dental Implants proudly serves patients throughout Houston, Champion Forest, Greenwood Forest, Kleinwood, and Memorial Northwest.
Visit the contact page or call (281) 444-4704 to request an appointment.