Gum grafting · Oakville

Treat gum recession and protect exposed roots

When gums pull back, the root of the tooth is left exposed. A gum graft covers the root, thickens the gum and helps stop recession from getting worse, easing sensitivity and improving how your smile looks.

  • Periodontist on our team
  • Your own or donor tissue
  • Sedation available
  • No referral needed
Two diagrams: a tooth with gum recession exposing the root, and the same tooth after a gum graft covers the root.1Gum recession2After a gum graft
1 Exposed root · 2 Graft covering the root. Simplified.
Why it matters

Gum recession is more than cosmetic

Recession usually happens slowly and without pain, so many people don’t notice until a tooth looks longer or becomes sensitive.

Tooth sensitivity

Exposed roots react to hot, cold and sweet foods.

Root decay

Roots aren’t protected by enamel, so they decay more easily.

Gum and bone loss

Advanced recession weakens the support around the tooth.

Appearance

Teeth can look longer and the gum line uneven.

Common causes: brushing too hard, gum disease, naturally thin gums, tooth position or orthodontic movement, grinding or clenching, and tobacco use.

Types of grafts

Three ways to rebuild the gum

We’ll recommend the approach that gives the best coverage, thickness and long-term stability for your teeth.

Most common

Connective tissue graft

Tissue from beneath the surface of the palate is placed over the exposed root. Predictable and natural-looking.

No palate site

Donor tissue graft

A medical-grade donor graft is used instead of tissue from your palate, for a less invasive experience.

Thin gums

Free gingival graft

Tissue from the surface of the palate thickens the gum and helps prevent future recession.

Recovery

What healing looks like

Most patients return to normal activities within a day or two.

  1. 0
    Surgery day

    Graft placed

    With local anesthesia; sedation is available. Takes about an hour per area.

  2. 1
    First few days

    Mild tenderness

    Some swelling. Don’t brush the grafted area and stick to soft foods.

  3. 2
    1 to 2 weeks

    Early healing

    Stitches dissolve or are removed and the graft starts to attach.

  4. 6
    4 to 6 weeks

    Graft stabilizes

    The graft blends with the surrounding gum.

  5. +
    Several months

    Final result

    Full integration and a natural appearance.

Your specialist team

Gum and surgical specialists under one roof

Dr. Theo Katsaros
DDS, MSD, FRCD(C)

Dr. Theo Katsaros

Periodontist, board-certified in Canada and the United States.

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Dr. Martin Cloutier
DMD, MSc, FRCD(C), Dipl. ABOMS

Dr. Martin Cloutier

Oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Trained in oral and maxillofacial surgery and anesthesia at the University of Toronto.

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You’ll get a written estimate after your consultation, and we can send a pre-determination to your insurer.

Fees & insurance
Questions

Gum grafting FAQ

Don’t see your question? Call us at (905) 582-2188.

Is gum grafting painful?

The area is fully numbed, and sedation is available. Afterward, most patients have mild tenderness, especially at the palate if tissue is taken from there, which settles over a few days.

Will the results look natural?

The graft blends with your surrounding gum over a few weeks. Results vary, and we’ll talk about what to expect for your teeth at your consultation.

How long does a gum graft last?

With good home care, grafts are long-lasting. Gentle brushing and regular cleanings help protect the result.

Can I prevent future recession?

Use a soft toothbrush with gentle pressure, treat gum disease early, wear a night guard if you grind, and avoid tobacco.

Do I need a graft if my teeth aren’t sensitive?

Not always. We look at how much gum is left, whether recession is getting worse, and your goals, then recommend treatment or monitoring.

Is it covered by insurance?

Many plans cover part of gum grafting. We can send a pre-determination so you know your share before treatment.

Do I need a referral?

No. You can book a consultation directly.

Next step

Have your gum recession assessed

Your consultation includes an exam of your gums and a clear plan with a written estimate. No referral needed.