Effective Solutions for Gum Recession: Gum Grafting at North Langley Family Dental
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Gum recession — when the gum tissue pulls back from the tooth, exposing the root — can cause significant sensitivity, aesthetic concerns, and if left untreated, tooth loss. Gum grafting is a proven surgical procedure that restores lost gum tissue, covers exposed roots, and protects your teeth from further damage. At North Langley Family Dental, we offer gum grafting for patients in Langley, Walnut Grove, Willowbrook, Fort Langley, and across the Fraser Valley.
What Causes Gum Recession?
Gum tissue can recede for a number of reasons:
- Periodontal (gum) disease — the most common cause; bacterial infection destroys gum and bone tissue
- Aggressive toothbrushing — brushing too hard or with a stiff-bristled brush wears away gum tissue over time
- Thin gum tissue — some people naturally have thinner, more fragile gum tissue that is more prone to recession
- Tooth misalignment — teeth that are out of position can have inadequate gum coverage
- Tobacco use — smoking and chewing tobacco significantly increase recession risk
Why Treat Gum Recession?
When root surfaces are exposed, they are more vulnerable to sensitivity (exposed roots lack enamel protection), decay (root surfaces are more susceptible to cavities), and further recession — which tends to progress without treatment. Many patients also find the aesthetic appearance of lengthened teeth a concern.
Types of Gum Grafts
- Connective tissue graft: The most common type. Tissue is taken from a small incision in the palate (roof of the mouth) and sutured over the exposed root. This technique provides excellent, natural-looking results.
- Free gingival graft: Similar, but tissue is taken directly from the palate surface. Used when additional gum thickness is needed.
- Pedicle graft: Uses tissue from gum adjacent to the recession site — only appropriate when sufficient adjacent tissue is available.
- Allograft (donor tissue): Donor tissue from a tissue bank eliminates the need for palatal tissue harvest — an option for patients who prefer to avoid a second surgical site.
Recovery After Gum Grafting
Most patients experience mild to moderate discomfort for 1–2 weeks following the procedure, manageable with prescription or over-the-counter pain relief. A soft food diet is recommended during healing. Stitches typically dissolve or are removed within 1–2 weeks. The full aesthetic result develops over 2–3 months as swelling subsides and tissue matures.
We serve patients requiring gum grafting from Langley, Walnut Grove, Willowbrook, Fort Langley, Brookswood, Aldergrove, Maple Ridge, and Abbotsford.
Is gum grafting painful?
The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic so you will not feel pain during the surgery. Post-operative discomfort at the graft site and the harvest site (if palate tissue was used) is normal for 1–2 weeks. Prescription pain medication or over-the-counter ibuprofen is usually sufficient.
How long does recovery from gum grafting take?
Initial healing (stitches dissolving, significant tenderness resolving) takes 1–2 weeks. You should eat soft foods and avoid vigorous oral hygiene in the treated area for this period. Full tissue maturation takes 2–3 months.
Will the gum graft look natural?
Yes — when performed by an experienced clinician, gum grafts blend naturally with the surrounding gum tissue in terms of colour and contour. The result improves over the months following the procedure as the tissue matures.
Can gum recession come back after a graft?
A successfully integrated gum graft provides durable, long-term coverage of the exposed root. However, if the underlying cause of recession (e.g., aggressive brushing, untreated gum disease) is not addressed, recession can recur. We will provide guidance on adjusting your home care technique to protect the results.
Is gum grafting covered by insurance?
Gum grafting may be partially covered under dental insurance plans that include periodontal benefits, typically as a surgical procedure. Coverage varies significantly by plan. We will review your benefits before treatment so you understand your costs.
What happens if I don't treat gum recession?
Without treatment, recession tends to progress — more root surface becomes exposed, increasing sensitivity, decay risk, and the appearance of very long teeth. In severe cases, recession can lead to tooth loss. The earlier recession is treated, the simpler and more effective the procedure.
Concerned About Gum Recession?
Experiencing gum recession or tooth sensitivity? Contact North Langley Family Dental at 604-888-6885 or book online. Serving patients in Langley, Walnut Grove, Willowbrook, Fort Langley, and across the Fraser Valley.
