Gum Graft
Purpose of a Gum Graft
A gum graft is a surgical approach that aims to increase soft-tissue support in gum recession or a thin gum biotype. Partial or complete root coverage, reduced sensitivity and aesthetic margin correction may be planned.
The graft material is usually taken from the patient s own mouth; the palate is a common donor site. Complete recession coverage is not guaranteed in every case.
Graft Types and Technique Options
A free gingival graft (FGG) may be used especially to increase gum thickness; root coverage may be a secondary goal. A connective tissue graft (CTG) may be assessed for root coverage and pink tissue restoration in aesthetic areas; FGG and CTG are not the same technique.
Miller classification may help define recession type; technique choice depends on recession pattern, interdental tissue, region and patient factors.
Surgical Process and Healing
The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia. Donor and recipient sites are prepared, and the graft is fixed with sutures. A protective plate or dressing may be applied to the donor site.
Brushing, mouthwash use and suture-removal timing in the graft area vary by technique and clinician instructions. Temporary sensitivity or discomfort may occur at the donor site.
Difference from Connective Tissue Graft
Gum graft is a general concept covering different graft types. A free gingival graft generally includes epithelium and is taken from the palate; a connective tissue graft transfers subepithelial connective tissue. The two techniques are not the same and their indications differ.
The suitable technique is determined by recession size, biotype, root surface condition and patient expectations.
Long-Term Care and Expectations
Smoking may negatively affect graft success. Gentle brushing technique and regular periodontal review support the long-term result.
Root coverage rate varies by case, technique and care; partial improvement can also be clinically meaningful. Sensitivity reduction may be assessed with or without root coverage.
Active periodontal infection should be controlled before grafting; otherwise surgery may be postponed.
The cause of recession is addressed in the plan; if trauma, brushing technique or orthodontic factors continue, the graft result may be affected. Tunnel or coronally advanced flap techniques may be combined for graft stabilisation.