Gum Grafting in Trenton
If you've noticed a tooth looking longer than it used to, or you feel a sharp zing when cold water hits a certain spot, receding gums may be the reason. Gum recession happens slowly, and many of our Trenton patients don't notice it until a tooth root is already exposed. Gum grafting is the treatment that rebuilds that lost tissue — covering the root again, calming sensitivity, and protecting the tooth and bone underneath for the long haul. Our office sits at 22500 Allen Rd. in Woodhaven, a short drive for Trenton families, and we handle gum grafting right here as part of our broader surgical and periodontal care.
Gum grafting is a procedure that adds healthy gum tissue to an area where the gumline has pulled back. The graft tissue may come from the roof of your mouth or from a donor source, and it is secured over the exposed root so new tissue can grow and attach. Once healing is complete, the root is covered again and the gumline sits where it should.
Recession has several common causes, and we see all of them. Brushing too hard with a stiff brush wears tissue away over time. Gum disease destroys the attachment between gum and tooth. Grinding and clenching, crowded or poorly positioned teeth, and even genetics all play a role. Because gum tissue does not grow back on its own, grafting is the way to restore what has been lost rather than simply watching it worsen year after year.
Not every bit of recession needs surgery. The right time to consider a graft is when the exposed root is causing problems or when continued loss would put the tooth at risk. Here are the situations where grafting most often makes sense:
- Root sensitivity to cold, heat, sweets, or brushing that doesn't settle down
- Visible recession that makes teeth look long or uneven, especially when you smile
- Root surfaces that are notching, wearing, or developing decay without enamel to protect them
- Thin, fragile gum tissue that is likely to keep receding
- Recession that has followed gum disease treatment such as scaling and root planing
- Preparing the area around a tooth or planned restoration so the tissue is stable and healthy
Because we are a multi-doctor practice with five dentists, including a board-certified oral and maxillofacial pathologist, we can evaluate the tissue carefully and tell you honestly whether grafting is needed now, later, or not at all. We also offer a complimentary consultation, so Trenton patients can get a straight answer before committing to anything. If gum disease is the underlying driver, we'll address that first with periodontal treatment and ongoing maintenance.
What the Appointment Is Like
We start with an exam, X-rays, and a conversation about what you're noticing. We'll measure the recession, check the surrounding bone, and map out which teeth need coverage. You'll know the plan before we begin.
On treatment day, the area is thoroughly numbed. Nitrous oxide sedation is available, and we also offer IV sedation for patients who want to be more deeply relaxed — a real help if dental anxiety has kept you from treating this sooner. The graft tissue is placed over the prepared root surface and secured with fine sutures. Comfort matters to us throughout: our comfort menu includes blankets, warm towels, neck pillows, headphones, Netflix, and refreshments, so the visit feels less clinical than you might expect.
Healing and Aftercare
The first week asks for gentleness. You'll eat soft, cool foods, avoid chewing on the graft site, and skip brushing that specific area until we clear you — we'll give you a rinse and specific instructions instead. Mild swelling and tenderness are normal early on, and we'll go over what to expect and what to call about.
We'll see you back to check healing and remove sutures when appropriate. Long-term, the goal is keeping the new tissue healthy: gentle brushing technique, regular cleanings with our hygienist, and periodontal maintenance if gum disease has been part of your history. If clenching or grinding contributed to the recession, our in-house dental lab can make a night guard on site.
Paying for Treatment
We accept all major PPO insurance plans and will run a complimentary benefits check so you know your coverage before scheduling. Self-pay patients are welcome, and we take cash, checks, Visa, Mastercard, and American Express.
For larger treatment, CareCredit financing lets you spread payments out. If you don't have insurance, our in-house membership plan is $199 a year for adults and $99 for patients 17 and under — no deductibles, no annual maximum, no waiting period, and no pre-authorizations, with exams, X-rays, two cleanings, and two fluoride treatments covered at 100% plus 20% to 50% off other treatment. Se habla español, and we see patients of all ages from Trenton and the surrounding communities.