At Amazing Smile Dentistry in Las Vegas, we understand that healthy gums are the foundation of a beautiful smile. When gum recession occurs, it not only affects your smile’s appearance but can lead to serious oral health issues. Our gentle, effective soft tissue graft procedures (also known as “gum grafts”) can restore your gum health and protect your teeth from further damage.
What Are Gum Grafts and Why Might You Need One?
Gum grafts are specialized dental procedures that replace lost gum tissue over exposed tooth roots. You may notice symptoms like tooth sensitivity, longer-looking teeth, or visible root surfaces that indicate gum recession. This condition often results from:
- Progressive periodontal disease
- Aggressive tooth brushing techniques
- Genetics and natural aging
- Teeth grinding (bruxism)
- Tobacco use
- Misaligned teeth creating excessive force
When gums recede, they expose the tooth roots that lack the protective enamel covering the visible portion of your teeth. This exposure increases your risk for tooth decay, sensitivity, bone loss, and can significantly impact your smile’s appearance, especially when front teeth are affected.
Types of Gum Graft Procedures We Offer
At Amazing Smile Dentistry, Dr. Joseph Gelo provides three primary types of gum grafts, each designed to address specific patient needs:
Free Gingival Grafts
This technique uses tissue taken directly from the roof of your mouth (palate). We recommend free gingival grafts when you need thicker, stronger tissue to prevent further recession. This method is particularly effective for patients with naturally thin gums who need additional protection.
Connective Tissue Grafts
As our most commonly performed graft procedure, connective tissue grafts utilize specialized tissue harvested from beneath the surface layer of your palate. This technique provides excellent coverage of exposed roots while blending seamlessly with surrounding tissues, creating natural-looking results for front teeth and other visible areas.
Pedicle Grafts
When adequate healthy gum tissue exists adjacent to the area of recession, we can create a pedicle graft. This technique involves creating a flap from nearby tissue that remains partially attached while being repositioned to cover the exposed root. This approach maintains the graft’s blood supply, potentially improving healing outcomes.
The Gum Graft Procedure: What to Expect
During your consultation at our Las Vegas office, Dr. Gelo will evaluate your gum health, discuss your options, and recommend the most appropriate graft technique. The procedure typically follows these steps:
- We ensure your complete comfort with appropriate anesthesia
- Carefully harvest the donor tissue (either from your palate or adjacent area)
- Precisely position and secure the graft over the exposed root surfaces
- Place protective dressing over the surgical sites to promote healing
Most patients return to normal activities within a day or two, though complete healing takes several weeks. We provide detailed aftercare instructions and schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your healing progress and ensure successful integration of the graft.
Benefits of Gum Grafts Beyond Aesthetics
While many patients seek gum grafts to improve their smile’s appearance, the benefits extend far beyond cosmetics:
- Protection against root decay and cavities
- Reduction in tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, and sweet foods
- Prevention of additional bone loss around affected teeth
- Strengthening of periodontal health
- Longer tooth preservation
- Restored confidence in your smile
As part of our comprehensive approach to dental care, we may recommend combining gum grafts with other periodontal treatments to address underlying gum disease and ensure long-term oral health.
Why Choose Amazing Smile Dentistry for Your Gum Graft?
At our state-of-the-art Las Vegas practice, Dr. Joseph Gelo brings over a decade of experience and advanced training to every procedure. As an Associate Fellow of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry with extensive continuing education, Dr. Gelo combines technical expertise with a gentle, patient-focused approach.
Our office utilizes the latest technology, including laser dentistry and digital imaging, to enhance precision and comfort during gum graft procedures. We understand dental treatments can cause anxiety, which is why we prioritize creating a comfortable, supportive environment for all our patients.
Prevent Gum Recession Before It Starts
While gum grafts effectively treat recession, prevention remains the best approach to gum health. During your regular check-ups at Amazing Smile Dentistry, we provide personalized guidance on:
- Proper brushing techniques using soft-bristled toothbrushes
- Effective flossing methods that clean without damaging gums
- Professional cleanings to remove plaque and tartar buildup
- Early intervention for signs of periodontal disease
- Custom nightguards for patients who grind their teeth
Frequently Asked Questions About Gum Grafts
How painful is a gum graft procedure?
Most patients experience minimal discomfort during the procedure thanks to local anesthesia. After treatment, mild soreness for a few days is normal and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and soft foods.
How long does it take to recover from a gum graft?
While you can return to most normal activities within 1-2 days, complete healing takes approximately 1-2 weeks. The graft fully integrates with surrounding tissues over 4-8 weeks.
Will my insurance cover gum graft procedures?
Many dental insurance plans provide partial coverage for gum grafts when medically necessary. Our team will help verify your benefits and explain any out-of-pocket costs before treatment.
How long do gum grafts last?
With proper oral hygiene and regular dental care, gum grafts can last a lifetime. Continued good habits are essential to prevent recurring recession.
Can I eat normally after a gum graft?
We recommend soft foods for the first week and avoiding chewing near the surgical site. Your dentist will provide specific dietary guidelines based on your procedure.
Comprehensive Dental Care Under One Roof
Beyond gum grafts, Amazing Smile Dentistry offers a complete range of dental services for your entire family, including:
- Implant dentistry with All-on-4® and All-on-6® options
- Cosmetic dentistry including veneers and teeth whitening
- Pediatric dentistry for children of all ages
- Invisible orthodontics with ClearCorrect® and Invisalign®
- Preventative care and periodontal treatments
- Emergency dental services
Restore Your Gum Health Today
Don’t let receding gums compromise your oral health and confidence. Our experienced team at Amazing Smile Dentistry is ready to help you achieve the healthy gums and beautiful smile you deserve.
📍 Visit Us: 6252 S. Rainbow Blvd., Suite 130, Las Vegas, NV 89118
📞 Call: (702) 734-6252
📩 Or Request an Appointment Online Today
