One of the most effective ways to prevent mild gum recession is to see your dental team for regular cleanings and checkups. In addition, keeping up with regular brushing and flossing is essential. However, to remove the tartar that builds up over time, and causes receding gums, you need at least biannual cleanings to remove it.

What is gum graft surgery?

In severe gum recession cases, gum grafting may be necessary. This receding gums treatment restores lost gum tissue by taking tissue from a different area in your mouth and placing it in the affected area. The graft shields the tooth root from harmful bacteria and improves the appearance of your gum line and teeth, resulting in a healthier and more natural look. Usually, the gum graft comes from the roof of your mouth, called the palate. After removing the tissue, the dentist then stitches the graft to the remaining gum tissue surrounding the root of your tooth. However, when there is enough tissue available near the affected area, the dentist might graft gum from around the tooth rather than removing it from the palate.

Caring for Your Gums Post-Graft

The way you take care of your gums after treatment largely depends on the extent of the condition and the treatment approach suggested by your periodontist—a dentist that specializes in the gums. If you undergo gum graft surgery, your dentist will provide you with post-procedure care instructions, which may include the use of a specialized mouth rinse or dietary modifications while your gums recover. It is important to follow your dental team's advice to promote healing after this gum recession treatment. Since gum grafts involve surgery, you may experience some discomfort, swelling, or tenderness in the affected area. Also, you should avoid smoking or drinking alcohol. In addition, teeth clenching or grinding can impede the healing process, so talk about this with your dentist, as well as the medications you take, or underlying health issues.