What it is
Mucogingival surgery, also called periodontal plastic surgery, corrects problems with the gums around teeth and implants.
The most common situation is gum recession: the gum pulls back and leaves the root of the tooth exposed. This can cause sensitivity, aesthetic concerns and a higher risk of root decay.
When it may be recommended
- Gum recession causing sensitivity or aesthetic concerns, or that is getting worse.
- Very thin gums, or little firm (keratinised) gum around a tooth or an implant.
- Preparing the gums before orthodontic treatment or restorations, when there is a risk of recession.
- Gum defects in visible areas of the smile.
Recession can be linked to overly aggressive brushing, thin gums, tooth position, inflammation or smoking. Correcting these causes is part of the treatment.
What happens
- Periodontal assessment: measuring the recession, the bone level between the teeth and the thickness of the gums.
- Addressing the causes: correct brushing technique and treatment of any inflammation.
- Surgery under local anaesthetic. The most widely used technique combines repositioning the gum with a connective tissue graft, usually taken from the palate. In some cases substitute materials can be used.
- Recovery: written instructions on diet, hygiene and medication; the treated area is not brushed for a few weeks.
- Follow-up and removal of stitches, followed by maintenance appointments.
Potential benefits
- Covers exposed roots fully or partially.
- Can reduce sensitivity and improve the appearance of your smile.
- Thickens the gums, making them more resistant to further recession.
Limitations and precautions
- How much of the root can be covered depends mainly on the bone and gum between the teeth: full coverage is not always possible.
- When a graft is taken from the palate, that area is sore for a few days.
- Swelling, minor bleeding and discomfort in the following days are common.
- Smoking and traumatic brushing reduce success; if the causes are not corrected, the recession can come back.
Frequently asked questions
Will the gum grow back on its own?
No. Gum recession does not reverse on its own. It can be stabilised with the right care and, when appropriate, treated surgically.
Where does the graft come from?
Usually from the patient’s own palate. In some cases substitute materials can be used; this is discussed at the appointment.
Does the surgery hurt?
It is done under local anaesthetic. Discomfort in the following days is usually controlled with the medication prescribed by the dentist.
How long is the recovery?
Usually one to two weeks for the initial aftercare; the gum continues to mature over a few months.
Results and treatment times vary from person to person. Treatment is only recommended after an assessment appointment.