Gum Grafting in Gibsonia & Pittsburgh, PA

What Is Gum Grafting?

Gum grafting is a periodontal procedure used to cover exposed roots and rebuild gum tissue that has been lost due to recession. Receding gums may be caused by:

• Aggressive tooth brushing
• Periodontal disease
• Genetics
• Orthodontic treatment
• Tooth grinding or clenching

The goal of gum grafting is to restore both function and appearance while preventing further oral health complications. It also helps patients who are experiencing temperature sensitivity or wish to improve their smile aesthetics.

Types of Gum Grafts We Offer

At Chips Dental Associates, our team evaluates the extent of your recession and recommends the most suitable grafting approach. Common options include:

• Connective Tissue Graft: The most common technique, where tissue is taken from under the surface of the palate and grafted to the affected area.
• Free Gingival Graft: Surface tissue is taken directly from the palate, typically used when the patient requires additional thickening of the gum tissue.
• Allograft or Donor Graft: Uses medically processed donor tissue instead of tissue from the patient, which can reduce healing time and surgical impact.

Each procedure is performed with precision and care to promote optimal healing and long-term success.

Why Gum Grafting May Be Necessary

If left untreated, gum recession can progress and lead to:

• Tooth root exposure and sensitivity
• Higher risk of root decay
• Gum inflammation or infection
• Aesthetic changes in your smile
• Tooth mobility or loss in severe cases

Gum grafting not only halts further tissue loss but also reinforces the structural stability of your teeth. It is often recommended as part of a broader periodontal health strategy, which may include laser dentistry, periodontal therapy, and routine maintenance.

The Gum Grafting Process at Chips Dental Associates

Your journey begins with a full consultation and oral evaluation, including digital imaging and intraoral photography using our intra-oral cameras. The treatment process includes:

1. Planning & Diagnosis: Our team identifies areas of recession and assesses the surrounding tissue health.
2. Procedure: Local anesthesia or IV sedation is used to ensure your comfort. The chosen graft is carefully positioned and sutured in place.
3. Healing & Recovery: Healing typically takes 1–2 weeks. We’ll provide detailed aftercare instructions to support tissue integration and reduce discomfort.

Most patients return to normal routines shortly after the procedure, though a soft diet is usually recommended during the early healing phase.

Technology That Supports Precision and Comfort

To ensure the highest level of accuracy and patient comfort, our gum grafting procedures may involve:

• 3D CT scanning for surgical planning and assessment of bone and soft tissue
• Digital impressions to eliminate traditional molds and improve precision
• Microsurgical instruments to minimize trauma and speed up recovery

This advanced technology enables us to deliver minimally invasive care with maximum results.

Combined Treatment Options

Gum grafting is often performed in conjunction with other procedures to improve oral health and appearance. These may include:

• Dental implants, especially when implants are placed near areas with gum loss
• Smile makeovers or veneers where soft tissue symmetry affects smile aesthetics
• Orthodontics when realigning teeth that have shifted due to bone or gum loss

Because we offer all these services in-house at our Gibsonia and Pittsburgh locations, your treatment is coordinated efficiently from start to finish.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gum Grafting

Does gum grafting hurt?
The procedure itself is performed under local anesthesia or sedation, so patients typically experience little to no discomfort during the process. Mild soreness afterward is normal and manageable with medication and post-op care.

How long does it take to recover?
Initial healing takes about 1–2 weeks, but full integration of the graft can take several weeks. Most patients return to work within a few days.

Will my gums look normal after healing?
Yes. Once healed, the grafted tissue blends naturally with your surrounding gum line and provides both aesthetic and functional improvement.

Is gum grafting covered by insurance?
Many dental insurance plans cover gum grafting when it's medically necessary. Our team can help verify your benefits and provide transparent cost estimates.

What happens if I don’t treat gum recession?
Without treatment, gum recession may continue to progress, exposing the roots of your teeth, increasing sensitivity, and eventually leading to tooth loss or more invasive treatments.

Schedule Your Gum Grafting Consultation Today

At Chips Dental Associates, we believe that healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile. Our experienced team provides advanced gum grafting procedures in a caring, patient-centered environment. Whether you’re seeking relief from sensitivity or aiming to protect your long-term oral health, we’re here to help.

Get started by scheduling your consultation at one of our convenient locations:

• Gibsonia Office – 5615 William Flynn Highway, Gibsonia, PA 15044 | (724) 443-5710
• Pittsburgh Office – 100 McKnight Park Drive, Suite 106, Pittsburgh, PA 15237 | (412) 364-7144

Or request an appointment through our main contact page.