Gum Tissue Graft Surgery in Tucson, AZ

What Are the Different Types of Gum Grafts?

Several techniques may be appropriate depending on recession severity, tooth location, and available donor tissue.

Connective Tissue Graft



A small flap is opened on the palate and tissue from beneath the surface is removed, then sutured to the recipient site. This approach yields natural-looking results and can treat multiple teeth in one procedure.

Free Gingival Graft

Tissue is taken directly from the palate surface to thicken thin gum tissue and add attached gingiva where very little exists.

Pedicle Graft

Tissue adjacent to the recession site is partially cut and rotated or slid to cover the exposed root. This option is considered when sufficient donor tissue exists near the affected area.

Dr. Deeb will determine the most appropriate technique based on a thorough clinical examination.

Who May Need Gum Grafting?

You may be a candidate if you have one or more of these concerns: visibly receding gums that make teeth appear longer than normal, tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods, exposed roots identified during a dental exam, tissue loss from gum disease, or thin gum tissue that puts teeth at elevated risk for future recession. Addressing recession early may reduce treatment complexity and help preserve supporting bone. Learn more about gum disease treatment at Arizona Periodontics.

1. A consultation and clinical evaluation are completed, including digital X-rays to assess bone levels and tissue health.
2. Local anesthesia is administered to donor and recipient sites; IV sedation is available for patients who prefer a more relaxed experience.
3. Donor tissue is harvested from the palate or adjacent gum tissue, depending on the graft type selected.
4. The graft is positioned over the exposed root surface and sutured securely into place.
5. Post-operative instructions are reviewed and a follow-up appointment is scheduled to monitor healing.
   
   

Recovery involves soft food intake and limited activity for the first one to two weeks. Patients can expect some tenderness at donor and recipient sites during initial healing. A soft diet, prescribed rinses, and avoiding brushing the graft area are standard recommendations. Full tissue maturation may take several weeks, though many patients return to normal routines quickly. Dr. Deeb and the team provide clear post-operative guidance so patients know what to expect throughout healing.



An Alternative to Consider: The Pinhole Technique

For some patients, the Pinhole Surgical Technique may be a minimally invasive alternative to traditional grafting. No palate tissue is harvested. Instead, a small entry point is made in the gum and specialized instruments reposition existing tissue over exposed roots, with no incisions or sutures at the graft site. This can mean reduced post-operative discomfort for appropriate candidates. Dr. Deeb can determine whether traditional gum tissue graft surgery or this alternative better fits your clinical needs.