Surgical

Gum Grafting

If you’re experiencing gum recession, sensitivity, or exposed tooth roots, gum grafting could be the solution to protect your smile and restore your oral health.

At District Dental Surgery, our skilled periodontists in Washington, DC and Bethesda, Maryland, specialize in advanced gum grafting procedures designed to rebuild gum tissue, prevent further recession, and improve the appearance of your smile. Whether caused by periodontal disease or aggressive brushing, we offer personalized treatment plans using the latest techniques to ensure lasting results and a healthier foundation for your teeth. Trust the experts in the DC Metro area for precision periodontal care.

What Causes Gum Recession?

Gum recession can occur for several reasons, including:

Gum Disease – The most common cause, periodontal disease, destroys gum tissue and supporting bone.
Aggressive Brushing – Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can wear away gum tissue.
Teeth Grinding (Bruxism) – Excessive pressure from clenching or grinding can contribute to gum recession.
Genetics – Some people are naturally predisposed to thinner gum tissue.
Tobacco Use – Smoking and chewing tobacco reduce blood flow, weakening gums.
Poor Oral Hygiene – Plaque buildup leads to gum inflammation and eventual recession.
Orthodontic Treatments – Braces and misaligned teeth can put strain on gums, causing recession.
High Frenums: Muscle attachments can pull the gums
Lack of Functional Tissue: It’s important to have functional tissue to protect your teeth

Why Is It Important to Treat Gum Recession?

Gum recession doesn’t fix itself, and once the gums pull away, they don’t grow back on their own. It’s a progressive condition and a sign that the support system around your teeth is weakening. If left untreated, the problem will worsen over time, even if you’re not experiencing any symptoms yet. It can lead to more invasive (and costly) treatment later, so the earlier you address it, the easier it is to protect your oral health. If left untreated, it can lead to:

1 Bone Loss & Tooth Loss

Your gums protect the bone that supports your teeth. When the gumline recedes, the underlying bone begins to break down, and this can lead to tooth loss.

2 Tooth Sensitivity

As the roots of your teeth become exposed, you may feel pain when eating or drinking hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods. In some cases, just brushing or touching the area can hurt.

3 Increased Risk of Decay & Infection

Exposed roots are more vulnerable to cavities and plaque buildup, which can lead to more aggressive gum disease. Root cavities are harder to treat than traditional cavities, further increasing the risk of tooth loss.

Gum Grafting: The Solution for Receding Gums

Gum grafting is a trusted solution that restores lost gum tissue and helps protect your teeth for the long term. At District Dental Surgery, we offer advanced gum grafting techniques to rebuild the gum line and improve both the health and appearance of your smile. The procedure involves carefully placing new tissue (often from your own mouth or a donor source) over the areas of recession. This not only covers exposed roots but also creates a healthier, more stable gum foundation.

With expert care from our periodontists, gum grafting is a straightforward and effective way to reverse gum recession and support your overall oral health.

How Do You Know If You Need Gum Graft?

Not sure if a gum graft is right for you? You’re not alone. Gum recession often happens gradually, and many people don’t notice the signs until it becomes more advanced. Here are some common indicators that you may benefit from a gum graft: your teeth look longer than they used to, increased tooth sensitivity, and visible root surfaces. The best way to know if you need a gum graft is through a professional evaluation. Dr. Raha Yousefi and her team will assess your gum health, measure the recession, and recommend the best course of action to keep your smile strong and healthy for years to come.

Different Types of Gum Grafts

We tailor each gum graft procedure to your unique needs. Two of the most commonly used techniques are Connective Tissue Graft (CTG) and Free Gingival Graft (FGG). Both serve different purposes, but the goal is the same: healthier gums and a stronger smile.

Connective Tissue Graft (CTG) is the most common type of gum graft. Ideal for covering exposed roots, improving gum recession appearance, and blending seamlessly with your natural gum line. During the procedure, a thin layer of tissue is placed in the area where your gums have receded. We can obtain this tissue in two methods:
- - Autogenous (Your Own Tissue): A small piece of tissue is taken from the roof of your mouth (palate) and carefully placed and sutured to the area where your gums have receded.
  - Non-Autogenous (Donor Tissue): This technique uses medically processed donor tissue. The graft is placed in the same way, but without the need to take tissue from the roof of your mouth.
Free Gingival Graft (FGG) is a type of gum graft that is used to increase the amount of thick, keratinized gum tissue around teeth, especially in areas where the gums are too thin or have receded. The procedure involves removing a thin layer of tissue from the roof of your mouth (palate) and transplanting it to the area in need. FGG is typically done more for functional purposes than for cosmetic reasons.

What is the Recovery for Gum Graft Surgery?

Most patients recover within 1-2 weeks. During this time, you may need to stick to soft foods and avoid brushing directly on the graft site until it fully heals.

Full Post-Op Instructions for Gum Graft Surgery

Video of Patient's Gum Graft Experience (Surgery & 1 Day Post-Op)

One day post-op and thriving!

Our patient documented her gum grafting journey with us, and she’s already looking and feeling great just 24 hours post-op! In this video, she shares what recovery has been like so far and how the surgery went.

If you’ve been nervous about the process, her experience might ease your mind.

Video of Patient's Gum Graft Recovery (2 Weeks Post Op)

2 Weeks Post-Op: Gum Grafting Recovery Update!

Our patient documented her gum grafting journey, and she’s now 2 weeks post-op! In this video, she shares how her recovery has been going and what to expect during the healing process. She just had her 2-week follow-up with Dr. Yousefi, who removed her sutures and checked on her progress.

If you’ve been wondering what recovery from gum grafting really looks like, this is a great firsthand look.

What Can I Eat After Gum Grafting Surgery?

Eating the right foods after gum grafting is just as important as the procedure itself. To help your graft heal properly and keep you comfortable, stick to soft, gentle foods that don’t require much chewing, especially in the first few days.

Post-Op Dietary Guidelines for Gum Graft

Day 1

Day 1: Keep It Cold and Soft. Right after surgery, your mouth will be tender, and cold foods can help soothe the area and reduce swelling. Stick to things like:

Smoothies (no straws)
Yogurt
Ice cream
Milkshakes
Drink plenty of ice water!

Days 2–14

Days 2–14: Soft, Room Temperature Foods.

As healing progresses, you can slowly add in more soft foods that don’t require much chewing. Think:

Mashed potatoes
Scrambled eggs
Oatmeal
Cooked pasta
Cooked, soft vegetables (squash, zucchini, potatoes)
Soft fruits (bananas, canned fruits, avocado)
Tender cooked meats (shredded chicken, ground turkey, ground beef)
Soft fish (white fish or salmon)
Pancakes
Cottage cheese or soft cheeses

Rule of thumb: If you can smash it with a fork, you can eat it. Steamed carrot? Yes. Raw carrot? Not yet.

Foods to Avoid until Fully Healed

Foods to Avoid

To prevent irritation or damage to the graft site, avoid:

Crunchy foods (chips, nuts, raw veggies)
Seeds or small grains (chia, quinoa, sesame seeds, poppy seeds)
Hard bread or crusty rolls
Spicy or acidic foods
Hot foods and drinks for the first couple of days
Sticky foods (caramels, gummy candy, chewing gum)
Anything that requires a lot of chewing

NO:

Straws
Alcohol
Smoking
Chewing on the surgical side

Gum Graft FAQs:

Is the Gum Grafting Procedure Painful?

Not at all, your comfort is our priority. It’s performed under local anesthesia, which means the treatment area will be completely numb. You won’t feel pain during the procedure, and most patients report little to no discomfort throughout. For added comfort, we also offer laughing gas (nitrous oxide) and Xanax if you’re feeling anxious or prefer a more relaxed experience. Any post-procedure discomfort is typically mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. We provide detailed aftercare instructions to promote smooth healing.

What Can I Expect from Gum Grafting?

Minimally Invasive Techniques – We use the latest microsurgical methods for precision and comfort.
Quick Healing Time – Most patients experience minimal downtime with mild discomfort.
Natural, Long-Lasting Results – Your gums will be restored to a healthy, youthful appearance.

Can Gum Recession Return After a Graft?

With proper oral hygiene and regular periodontal maintenance, gum grafting provides long-lasting results. However, it’s essential to maintain good brushing habits, manage teeth grinding, and address any gum disease to prevent future recession.

Will My Gums Look Natural After Grafting?

Absolutely! Our expert periodontists use advanced techniques to ensure the graft blends seamlessly with your natural gums, creating a healthy, aesthetic gum line.

Can I Brush & Floss like Normal After Gum Grafting?

Not immediately. Only brush and floss the teeth that were not involved in the surgery. Avoid the surgical site for the first week. We’ll provide you with specific home care instructions.