Healthy gum tissue matters around all teeth, but it is even more critical around dental implants. In this video, Dr. Raha Yousefi walks through a real patient case to explain why gum grafting around implants is sometimes necessary and how it helps protect long-term implant health.

This patient had dental implants placed, and over time, began to notice the implant becoming visible as the gum tissue thinned and receded. When gum tissue is naturally thin or lacks adequate thickness, it can gradually pull away from the implant, allowing the gray color or metal of the implant to show through.

Gum recession around implants can happen for several reasons, including:

• Implant placement position
• The health and thickness of the gum tissue at the time of implant placement
• Genetics, especially in patients who naturally have thinner gum tissue

To prevent additional recession and strengthen the area, this patient was an excellent candidate for a free gingival graft. In this case, the graft was performed around an implant that is part of an All-on-X fixed denture, where multiple implants support a full set of fixed teeth.

A free gingival graft can be performed anywhere a patient lacks adequate thick, healthy gum tissue. By thickening the tissue around the implant, we create a stronger, healthier environment that helps protect the implant long term.

It’s important to note that while a free gingival graft can significantly thicken the tissue above the implant, it cannot fully cover the implant itself. Dental implants are made of titanium and do not have a blood supply, which means new gum tissue cannot attach directly to the implant surface. Instead, the graft is placed in areas with a blood supply to reinforce and stabilize the surrounding tissue.

In the before images, you can see thin gum tissue and the gray appearance of the implant showing through. After the graft, there is a healthier, thicker band of gum tissue, and although the implant is not fully covered, the overall tissue position and quality are greatly improved.

A free gingival graft can be used around a single implant or implants supporting a full-arch restoration. Thickening the gum tissue is a key step in maintaining implant health and preventing future recession.

If you have implants and are noticing gum changes, visibility of the implant, or discomfort, this video explains why gum grafting may be part of your long-term solution.