Because of many reasons such as inadequate oral hygiene, hormone changes, diabetes, and other illnesses, you may experience gum recession. Since gum tissue can't regrow itself, our North York dental team may recommend gum graft surgery.

Gum grafts are necessary to help stop the process of gum recession and bone loss. They can also reduce teeth sensitivity, protect your roots from decay, and give you a more even gum line.

After your gum tissue has receded, most people find the colour difference between their roots and tooth enamel noticeable. Root surfaces are also softer than enamel, so when they aren't protected by gum tissue, they are at risk of root decay. Unless gum grafting occurs, the recession can get worse, leading to the possibility of tooth loss.

Depending on your situation, our North York dentist, Dr. Jesse Lackman may perform one of the following:

• Connective tissue graft: This is the most common type of graft, and it's usually done for many areas of recession. Your dentist will take underlying connective tissue from a flap made on the roof of your mouth and then stitch it over the exposed roots.
• Free gingival graft: If you have fragile gum tissue that needs reinforcing, your dentist may take a small piece of tissue from your palate and attach it to the existing gum tissue around your tooth.

To learn more about the gum graft procedure and determine whether it is right for you, contact our North York dental office today!