Soft-Tissue Grafts (Connective Tissue, Free Gingival, and Pedicle Grafts)

What Is Soft-Tissue Grafting?

Soft-tissue grafting is a surgical procedure used to treat gum recession, a condition where the gum tissue pulls away from the teeth and exposes the roots. This can lead to increased sensitivity, higher risk of decay, and an uneven smile appearance.

By taking healthy tissue (often from the roof of the mouth or nearby gums) and placing it where it’s needed, gum grafting restores coverage, strengthens the gumline, and protects your teeth for the long term.

Types of Gum Grafts We Offer

At Cornerstone Dental Arts, we provide several types of gum grafts based on your individual needs and gum condition:

1. Connective Tissue Graft

   • The most common graft type.

   • A small flap is created in the roof of the mouth, and tissue from underneath (the connective layer) is placed over the exposed root.

   • Ideal for treating root exposure and improving aesthetics.

2. Free Gingival Graft

   • Involves taking a thin layer of tissue directly from the roof of the mouth.

   • Used when patients need thicker, more durable gum tissue to prevent future recession.

   • Especially helpful in areas lacking firm, attached gum tissue.

3. Pedicle Graft

   • Uses gum tissue taken from directly beside the affected tooth.

   • The tissue is partially cut and rotated over the exposed root while staying attached on one side for improved blood supply.

   • Often used when nearby gum tissue is healthy and plentiful.

Each method is carefully chosen to match your oral health needs, gum structure, and aesthetic goals.

Why Gum Grafting Matters

Gum grafting does more than improve appearance—it protects your long-term oral health. Benefits include:

• Covers and protects exposed roots

• Reduces tooth sensitivity

• Prevents further gum and bone loss

• Restores natural gum contours for a balanced smile

• Improves support for teeth and overall oral stability

• Enhances comfort while brushing, flossing, and eating

Gum grafting can also reduce the risk of decay in root areas and support the success of future restorations or orthodontic treatments.

What to Expect During Treatment

1. Consultation and Diagnosis – We evaluate your gum recession, bone support, and oral health to determine the best graft type.

2. Local Anesthesia – The area is numbed for comfort. Sedation options may also be available.

3. Tissue Placement – The selected graft (connective, free gingival, or pedicle) is positioned over the recessed area and secured.

4. Healing and Follow-Up – Sutures are placed to protect the graft, and healing occurs over several weeks.

Most procedures take 60–90 minutes per area. Discomfort is typically mild and managed easily with medication and aftercare instructions.

Healing and Aftercare

• Avoid brushing the grafted site until directed.

• Stick to soft foods for about a week.

• Use prescribed mouth rinses to keep the area clean.

• Avoid smoking or alcohol during recovery.

• Attend follow-up visits for suture removal and progress checks.

Full healing generally occurs within a few weeks, and results are long-lasting with proper oral hygiene.

FAQs About Soft-Tissue Grafting

Q: Is gum grafting painful?
A: The procedure is done under local anesthesia, so it’s comfortable. Mild soreness afterward is normal but manageable with over-the-counter medication.

Q: How long does it take to heal?
A: Most patients heal within 1–2 weeks, though complete tissue integration can take a bit longer.

Q: Will the graft look natural?
A: Yes. Once healed, the grafted area blends seamlessly with your natural gum tissue.

Q: Is gum grafting permanent?
A: With proper care and oral hygiene, gum grafts can last a lifetime.

Q: Can tissue come from somewhere other than my mouth?
A: In some cases, donor or synthetic graft materials may be used, especially for patients needing multiple areas treated or preferring a single surgical site.