Gum Grafting in Toronto

Restore Your Gums, Protect Your Smile

Serving North York, Downtown Toronto & Surrounding Communities

Gum recession is a common condition that can expose the roots of your teeth, leading to sensitivity, discomfort, and long-term damage. It also affects the stability of dental implants and the overall appearance of your smile. At Implant Dentistry Toronto, Dr. Onur Cavus offers advanced gum grafting solutions to restore gum tissue using either your own tissue or biocompatible materials, depending on your individual needs.

Whether you’re dealing with natural gum recession or planning for implant placement, we’re here to help you regain healthy, protective, and aesthetically pleasing gums.

What Is Gum Recession?

Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue surrounding the teeth wears away or pulls back, exposing the tooth root. This can happen gradually and is often painless—until it becomes a serious issue.

Common causes include:

• Periodontal (gum) disease

• Aggressive tooth brushing

• Thin or delicate gum tissue

• Genetics

• Orthodontic movement

• Tooth loss or trauma

Why Gum Tissue Matters for Implants

For patients who are missing teeth, adequate gum thickness and volume are essential for successful implant placement. A strong and healthy band of gum tissue helps create a stable seal around the implant, protects against infection, and contributes to natural-looking esthetics.

If you’ve experienced bone or soft tissue loss from previous extractions or disease, gum grafting may be recommended prior to or in conjunction with implant surgery to optimize the long-term result.

What Is Gum Grafting?

Gum grafting is a minor surgical procedure that restores lost gum tissue. It can:

• Cover exposed roots

• Increase gum thickness

• Improve esthetic harmony around teeth and implants

• Prevent further gum recession or bone loss

• Reduce sensitivity and discomfort

• Create stable tissue around dental implants

Gum Grafting for Implant Patients

When placing dental implants, especially in the front (esthetic) region, soft tissue volume is key to long-term success. Dr. Cavus may recommend gum grafting to:

• Improve tissue contours around the implant

• Prevent soft tissue collapse

• Enhance esthetic outcomes

• Reinforce thin or mobile tissue around an implant

What to Expect from the Procedure

• Duration: 60–90 minutes

• Anesthesia: Local anesthesia; sedation available if needed

• Downtime: 1–2 days of mild discomfort; full healing over several weeks

• Follow-Up: Sutures removed (if non-resorbable) and tissue monitored for healing

You’ll be provided with detailed post-operative instructions and dietary recommendations. Most patients resume normal activities within a couple of days.

Techniques We Use at Implant Dentistry Toronto

1. Connective Tissue Graft (CTG)

The most common technique. A small flap is made in the palate (roof of the mouth) and tissue is harvested from beneath the surface. This graft is then placed over areas of recession or thin gum tissue.

Ideal for:

• Root coverage

• Enhancing gum volume

• Esthetic areas (front teeth)

• Implant-related soft tissue augmentation

2. Free Gingival Graft (FGG)

This technique uses a small piece of tissue taken directly from the surface of the palate and transferred to the gum line. It’s usually used to thicken the tissue and increase or create strong, keratinized and attached gum tissue around teeth or dental implants rather than cover roots.

Ideal for:

• Increasing gum thickness

• Stabilizing gum tissue in lower front teeth

• Implant-related soft tissue augmentation

3. Grafting with Biomaterials

For patients who prefer not to use their own palate tissue, we offer high-quality donor tissue grafts or collagen-based biomaterials. These options are safe, sterile, and widely used in modern periodontal procedures.

Ideal for:

• Patients with thin palates or multiple graft sites

• Reducing donor site discomfort

Alternatives & When Grafting May Not Be Necessary

In some mild cases of gum recession, non-surgical approaches such as desensitizing agents or occlusal adjustments may be considered. However, grafting is the most reliable long-term solution for:

• Progressive recession

• Implant esthetics

• Areas with thin or missing attached gingiva

Dr. Cavus will thoroughly assess your case and offer honest, evidence-based guidance on whether grafting is necessary.

Why Choose Dr. Cavus?

Comprehensive Planning – Every treatment is personalized for long-term function and esthetics.

Evidence-Based Techniques – Using the latest materials, biomaterials, and protocols for soft tissue management.

Comfort-First Care – Sedation options available. All procedures are explained clearly and carried out with precision and compassion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is gum grafting painful?

Most patients feel only mild discomfort afterward, similar to a scraped knee. We ensure a comfortable experience with local anesthesia and optional sedation.

Can you graft without taking tissue from my palate?

Yes. We offer safe, effective alternatives using donor tissue or collagen membranes, especially for patients who require multiple grafts or prefer to avoid a second surgical site.

How long does it take to heal?

Most of the healing occurs in 1–2 weeks. Full tissue integration may take 6–8 weeks, depending on your case.

Book a Gum Grafting Consultation in Toronto

If you’re dealing with gum recession, planning for implants, or want to improve the look and health of your smile—gum grafting may be the solution.

Call us today or book your consultation online. Dr. Cavus will walk you through every option, including grafting with your own tissue or modern biomaterials.