Gum Grafting in North York

About gum grafting

Gum recession happens when the gum edge pulls back and exposes part of the root. Common causes include brushing too hard, gum disease, thin gum tissue you were born with, grinding, past orthodontic movement and a tight muscle attachment pulling on the gum. Exposed roots can be sensitive to cold, are softer than enamel and are more likely to get cavities. Some people also dislike how longer teeth look.

In a gum graft, healthy tissue is placed over the receded area and stitched so it can join with the gum around it. The most common source is a thin layer of tissue from the roof of your mouth. In some cases, specially processed donor tissue or a collagen material can be used instead, so a second site is not needed. Which method is used depends on the thickness of your gums, how many teeth are involved and what the graft needs to do.

Not every case of recession needs a graft. Small, stable areas may only need gentler brushing and regular checks. A periodontal assessment looks at how much root is showing, how thick the gum is and whether the recession is getting worse. Dr. Ardeshir Ranjbari, our registered specialist in periodontics, can review your case, explain your options and tell you honestly what a graft can and cannot achieve.

Signs you may benefit from a gum graft

• Teeth that look longer than they used to
• Sensitivity to cold near the gum line
• A notch or ridge you can feel where gum meets tooth
• Recession that has gotten worse between dental visits
• Very thin gums around teeth that are about to have orthodontic or restorative work

Benefits

• Can cover exposed roots and reduce sensitivity
• Adds thickness to thin gums to help resist further recession
• Helps protect roots from decay and wear
• Can improve the look of an uneven gum line

What to expect

1. Periodontal assessmentRecession, gum thickness and the cause of the problem are checked and measured.
2. Talk through optionsYou learn which graft type fits your case, what to expect and how healing works.
3. Freeze the areaLocal anaesthetic numbs the treatment site and, if used, the roof of your mouth.
4. Place the graftThe tissue is shaped and secured over the receded area with fine stitches.
5. Follow-up visitsWe check healing, remove stitches if needed and review the area as it matures.

Aftercare

• Eat soft, cool foods and chew on the other side for the first week or two.
• Do not brush or floss the graft area until your dental team says it is okay; use the rinse you are given.
• Avoid pulling your lip to look at the area, since this can move the graft.
• Call us if you have heavy bleeding, increasing swelling or a fever.

Other options

For mild recession, your dentist may suggest a softer toothbrush and a gentler technique, a night guard if grinding is involved, a toothpaste for sensitive teeth or a tooth-coloured bonding to cover a sensitive notch. These do not add gum tissue, but they can manage symptoms and slow further wear.

Cost and coverage

Gum graft fees depend on the number of teeth treated, the type of graft and whether donor or collagen material is used. Specialist fees are commonly set with reference to the ODA suggested fee guide for periodontists. Insurance coverage for grafting varies a great deal, so we recommend a pre-treatment estimate before booking. Our team can submit one for you. Anyone with Canadian Dental Care Plan coverage is welcome to ask us how it may apply. LendCare payment plans can help spread the cost over time.

Our promise: we confirm your coverage and explain the cost before treatment.

Your dental team

Treatment is provided by our dentists. Dr. Ardeshir Ranjbari is a registered specialist in periodontics; our other dentists are general dentists. Some complex cases may be referred to a specialist.

Trusted health information

• Oral health for adults (Government of Canada)
• Oral health (Government of Canada)
• Canadian Dental Care Plan (Government of Canada)

Related services

Gum Grafting near you

We see patients from across North York and nearby areas, including North York, Don Mills, Parkway Forest, Henry Farm, Willowdale, Scarborough, Richmond Hill, Markham.