When a patient has receding gums, Dr. Kevin M. Altieri may recommend a gum graft. Gum grafts, or soft tissue grafts, are dental procedures for replacing receding gums. There are two different types of gum tissue: soft and hard. The soft tissue usually disappears first when gums recede, as it is the outer layer. Hard tissue protects the roots of your teeth. Depending on the extent of gum loss, we will perform either a soft tissue graft or a connective tissue graft. During a gum graft, our dentist will take tissue from another area of the mouth to replace the gums that have receded from your tooth roots.

Gums recede for a number of reasons, including periodontal disease and the use of a hard-bristled toothbrush. Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is an infection that attacks the gums and bone that surround and support your teeth. Gum recession has negative implications at both the cosmetic and health levels. It is important to replace lost gum tissue. Receding gums will make your teeth appear too long. Gum recession can cause cavities, infections, tooth loss, and in extreme cases, jawbone loss.