Soft Tissue Graft Surgery Recovery Timeline: What to Expect Week by Week
By Dr. Woolsey, board-certified by the American Board of Periodontology
As someone who has performed hundreds of soft tissue graft surgeries, I know that patients often feel more at ease when they understand what recovery will look like. Healing from this procedure takes time, but knowing the week-by-week process can help you prepare, follow your post-op instructions, and get the best results.
Here’s a detailed timeline of what to expect—based on both professional guidelines and what I’ve observed in real patient cases.
Understanding Soft Tissue Graft Surgery Recovery
Soft tissue graft surgery is designed to restore gum tissue, protect tooth roots, and improve oral health. The recovery process is gradual, as your body needs time to:
Integrate the graft with your natural gum tissue
Reduce swelling and inflammation
Allow new tissue to fully mature and strengthen
Day of Surgery – First 24 Hours
Expect: Mild discomfort, swelling, and possibly light bleeding.
Tips for Success:
Keep your head slightly elevated.
Use a cold compress (15 minutes on/off) to control swelling.
Avoid brushing the surgical area—your periodontist will provide cleaning instructions.
Week 1 – Initial Healing Phase
What’s Happening: The graft is beginning to adhere to the surrounding gum tissue. Swelling and tenderness are still normal.
Your Care Goals:
Use prescribed mouth rinse or gentle saltwater rinses.
Take prescribed pain medication if needed.
Avoid exercise or strenuous activity that increases blood flow to the gums.
Week 2 – Early Tissue Integration
What’s Happening: The graft is receiving blood supply from surrounding tissues, which is essential for long-term success. Stitches may be removed during this week.
Your Care Goals:
Resume gentle brushing and flossing away from the graft site.
Follow up with your periodontist to check graft stability.
Week 3 – Reduced Sensitivity and Swelling
What’s Happening: Discomfort should be minimal by now, and swelling is greatly reduced. You may notice the graft site blending more naturally with surrounding gums.
Your Care Goals:
Continue to chew on the opposite side if possible.
Maintain excellent oral hygiene in non-surgical areas.
Weeks 4–6 – Strengthening Phase
What’s Happening: The graft tissue is becoming more robust and resistant to irritation. Sensitivity should be gone or greatly reduced.
Your Care Goals:
Gradually return to normal eating habits (with your periodontist’s approval).
Continue avoiding hard or sharp foods until you’re fully cleared.
Keep up with follow-up visits for progress checks.
Months 3–6 – Final Healing and Maturation
What’s Happening: The graft has fully integrated and matured. Your gumline should now be stable, protected, and aesthetically improved.
Your Care Goals:
Maintain consistent oral care routines.
Schedule regular dental cleanings to prevent future gum recession.
Discuss long-term gum health strategies with your dental team.
When to Call Your Periodontist
While mild discomfort and swelling are normal, contact your periodontist immediately if you experience:
Heavy bleeding
Severe pain not relieved by medication
Signs of infection (fever, pus, foul taste)
The feeling that the graft is loose or shifting
Final Takeaway
Recovery from soft tissue graft surgery is a step-by-step process that rewards patience and careful home care. By following your periodontist’s instructions and understanding this timeline, you can protect your investment in your smile and enjoy long-lasting gum health.
“I have an EXTREME ANXIETY for the dentist! These ladies and the dentist here were AMAZING ALL AROUND!!! Put me at ease right to begin with and through the ENTIRE PROCEDURE!!!! I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS OFFICE 100%!!!
THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!!!”