What to Expect from Soft Tissue Graft Surgery: A Guide for Patients in Niceville
Gum recession is more than just a cosmetic issue—it can expose the roots of your teeth, increase sensitivity, and put your oral health at risk. One of the most effective ways to restore receded gums and protect your teeth is through soft tissue graft surgery.
At Emerald Coast Periodontics in Niceville, Florida, we specialize in this procedure to help patients restore both function and confidence in their smile. Here's what you need to know if you're considering gum grafting.
What Is Soft Tissue Graft Surgery?
Soft tissue grafting is a periodontal procedure that adds new tissue to areas where the gums have receded. The grafted tissue can come from the roof of your mouth (palate), a donor source, or adjacent gum areas. The goal is to:
Cover exposed roots
Strengthen thinning gum tissue
Improve gumline aesthetics
Reduce tooth sensitivity
Prevent further gum recession or bone loss
Why Do Patients Need Soft Tissue Grafting?
Gum recession can result from a variety of causes:
Periodontal disease
Aggressive brushing habits
Genetics
Smoking or tobacco use
Misaligned teeth
Orthodontic movement
If left untreated, recession can lead to exposed roots, increased sensitivity, and eventually, tooth loss.
Types of Gum Grafts
There are a few different types of soft tissue graft surgeries. At Emerald Coast Periodontics, we will determine the best option based on your needs:
Connective Tissue Graft: Most common type; tissue is taken from the roof of your mouth and placed over the exposed root.
Free Gingival Graft: Similar to the above, but used when more gum thickness is needed rather than root coverage.
Pedicle Graft: Tissue is taken from gum tissue near the affected tooth—ideal for patients with enough healthy tissue nearby.
What to Expect During the Procedure
The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, and for anxious patients, oral sedation is also available.
The area is numbed
Tissue is prepared and secured over the recessed area
Sutures may be placed to hold the graft in place
A protective dressing may be applied
Most procedures are completed in under an hour per area being treated.
Post-Op Care & Healing
After your surgery, you’ll be given detailed instructions on how to care for your mouth during healing. This may include:
A soft food diet for several days
Avoiding brushing or flossing near the surgical site
Rinsing with a prescribed mouthwash
Taking over-the-counter or prescribed medication
Most patients return to normal activities within a day or two, and full healing takes a few weeks.
Long-Term Results & Maintenance
Soft tissue graft surgery can deliver both functional and cosmetic benefits. Once healed, the graft strengthens your gums, reduces sensitivity, and gives your smile a more balanced appearance. To maintain the results, we recommend regular prophylaxis and maintenance visits and proper brushing techniques to avoid further recession.
Restore Your Gum Health with Expert Periodontal Care
If you're experiencing gum recession or have been referred for soft tissue graft surgery, the team at Emerald Coast Periodontics is here to help. Our Niceville office combines advanced surgical techniques with compassionate care to deliver outstanding results.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Don’t wait for gum recession to get worse. Schedule an appointment today to see if soft tissue graft surgery is right for you. Save time by completing your online registration before your visit.