Gum Grafts
City Creek Dental provides gum grafting in Temple, TX, for patients with receding gums, exposed tooth roots, and gum-related sensitivity. A gum graft can rebuild lost gum tissue, protect vulnerable tooth roots, and create a healthier, more even-looking gumline.
Gum recession can significantly impact the health and appearance of your smile. When your gums recede, the roots of your teeth become exposed, leading to increased sensitivity and an uneven gum line. Gum graft surgery offers an effective solution to restore your gum line and protect your teeth!
Gum graft surgery, also known as soft tissue grafting, is a surgical procedure that takes healthy gum tissue from one area of your mouth – often the palate – or uses donor tissue to cover exposed tooth roots.
This procedure is an important part of gum recession treatment, as it helps to rebuild the protective gum layer, reducing sensitivity and preventing further recession. By covering the exposed roots, a gum graft can also improve the overall aesthetics of your smile, giving your teeth a more even and natural appearance.
Dentists often recommend gum grafting when gum recession has exposed the roots of your teeth, or as a part of ridge augmentation. While gum recession might not always cause discomfort, it can lead to other dental issues if left untreated.
| Reason for gum grafting | What patients typically notices |
|---|---|
|
Exposed tooth roots
|
Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks
|
|
Days 3–7
Increased decay risk
|
Cavities forming near the gumline or on root surfaces
|
|
Gum recession from gum disease
|
Gums pulling away from teeth, longer-looking teeth
|
|
Cosmetic concerns
|
Uneven gumline or visible root surfaces affecting smile appearance |
|
Ridge augmentation
|
Rebuilding gum tissue before or after implant placement
|
Full recovery from a gum graft typically takes a few weeks, though most patients return to normal routines within a few days. Here’s what you can expect:
| Timeframe | What is normal | What to do |
|---|---|---|
|
First 24–48 hours |
Mild discomfort, swelling, some bleeding |
Rest, use gauze as directed, take recommended pain relievers
|
|
Days 3–7
|
Swelling gradually decreases
|
Eat soft foods: yogurt, applesauce, scrambled eggs, lukewarm soup
|
|
Weeks 1–2
|
Gum tissue begins to integrate
|
Avoid brushing the grafted area; use any prescribed mouth rinse
|
|
Weeks 2–4
|
Tissue continues to heal and firm up |
Resume normal brushing and flossing as directed by your dentist
|
|
Long-term
|
Results are designed to be lasting
|
Maintain regular cleanings and good oral hygiene to protect results
|
With proper care and maintenance, your newly grafted gum tissue will protect your teeth and maintain a healthy smile for the long term.
The cost of gum grafting depends on the number of teeth involved, the type of graft used, and your dental insurance benefits. Dental insurance often covers a portion of gum graft surgery when it is deemed medically necessary to treat gum disease or severe recession.
City Creek Dental works with most major insurance plans and can help you understand your coverage before treatment begins. Financing options may also be available for patients who need help managing out-of-pocket costs. Contact the office to request a consultation and a personalized cost estimate.
Gum graft surgery is a highly effective gum recession treatment that helps prevent further dental problems while improving the look of your smile. Whether you are dealing with sensitivity, uneven gums, or other issues caused by gum recession, City Creek Dental is here to help. Book an appointment today or call us at (254)-457-5368.
We want to make using your dental benefits as simple as possible. City Creek Dental is in network with Delta Dental and MetLife, with additional insurance providers being added to our network.
We also accept many other PPO dental insurance plans and are happy to file claims on your behalf. Our team will help you understand your coverage, make the most of your available benefits, and review estimated out-of-pocket costs before treatment.
Have questions about your insurance? Contact us and we’ll be happy to help verify your benefits.
| Monday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 7:30 AM – 3:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Thursday | 7:30 AM – 3:30 PM |
| Friday | 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM |
| Saturday | Closed |
| Sunday | Closed |