Tooth sensitivity, longer-looking teeth and changes to the appearance of your smile are symptoms of a common condition known as gum recession. When gum tissues recede from teeth or implants, the underlying roots or metal implant threads are exposed. Tooth roots do not have protective enamel, and are more susceptible to damage and sensitivity to the oral environment. Gum recession exposes yellow roots near the gums, giving the appearance of longer teeth and an aging smile. When gum recession threatens your smile, gum grafting is performed to regenerate receded tissue, cover tooth roots or implants, and restore a more healthy and youthful appearance.
Gum grafting is the process of adding tissue harvested from your own mouth (autogenous graft) or a safe, biocompatible donor source (allograft). The new tissue is placed in areas of gum recession, sutured to surrounding gum and integrates with existing tissue to restore the gum line to a healthier level. We offer a number of grafting techniques to address the gum recession needs of our patients.
Using this gum recession treatment technique, Dr. Anderson creates spaces (“tunnels”) beneath the gum tissue papilla. Gum grafting material is then threaded through the tunnels and held in place with sutures. This minimally invasive approach is ideal for treating multiple areas of gum recession.
With this gum grafting technique, Dr. Anderson gently loosens the gum in receded areas and moves this tissue to more appropriate position on the tooth. A connective tissue graft (tissue retrieved from beneath the top layer of tissue on the roof of your mouth) or allograft (sterile collagen) may be used to enhance gum recession treatment success.
A type of coronally advanced flap approach, the semilunar grafting technique creates a half-moon shape incision in the tissue directly above or below an area of gum recession. The center portion is then extended to cover exposed roots, while the corner areas remain attached. Adequate tissue must be available for this gum grafting technique.
A free gingival gum graft utilizes tissue from within your own mouth (the hard palate), and incorporates this nutrient-rich sample into areas of gum recession.
This technique sources your own tissue, located directly next to the tooth in need. Dr. Anderson gently frees a section of tissue that is in abundance, and stretches it over exposed root surfaces on an adjacent tooth.
As a periodontist, Dr. Lauren Anderson has advanced training and expertise in treating gum recession. She applies precision and refined skill to gum grafting procedures, using a vast array of specialized techniques. Certified in IV and oral sedation, Dr. Anderson offers the comfortable gum recession care you need to enjoy a healthy, lasting smile.
Gum grafting is a periodontal procedure that restores gum tissue lost due to recession. Dr. Anderson uses either autogenous grafts (from the patient) or biocompatible donor tissue to rebuild the gum line. The graft is sutured in place and integrates with existing tissue to protect roots, reduce sensitivity, and improve appearance.
In Bloomfield Hills, MI, gum recession is commonly treated with soft tissue grafting performed by Dr. Lauren Anderson. She offers several techniques including the minimally invasive tunneling method, coronally advanced flap, and lateral pedicle flap. These options help regenerate tissue while protecting tooth structure and improving smile esthetics.
This advanced method involves creating small “tunnels” under the gum papilla where grafting material is threaded and secured. It minimizes trauma to surrounding tissue and allows for quicker healing, especially when treating multiple recession sites. Dr. Anderson uses this technique to achieve predictable, esthetic results with less discomfort.
Yes, gum grafting is highly effective for long-term correction of gum recession. By restoring protective tissue over exposed roots, it reduces sensitivity, supports tooth stability, and enhances the smile. Dr. Anderson’s biologic techniques and minimally invasive approach promote better integration and lasting results for Bloomfield Hills patients.
Gum recession can result from factors like aggressive brushing, gum disease, thin tissue, lip ties, or ill-fitting restorations. Treatments such as gum grafting rebuild the lost tissue and prevent further damage. Dr. Anderson’s precision techniques help reverse these effects and restore healthy, protective gum anatomy.
These are common signs of gum recession. As the gums pull back, tooth roots—lacking enamel—become exposed and more vulnerable to temperature changes or decay. Gum grafting treatments offered by Dr. Anderson can cover these roots, reduce sensitivity, and create a more youthful appearance.
Yes, short or tight muscle attachments like lip ties can contribute to gum recession and spacing between teeth. Identifying and addressing this early with procedures like laser frenectomy or gum grafting helps prevent long-term periodontal or orthodontic issues.
If you’re noticing receding gums, tooth sensitivity, or changes in smile esthetics, it’s time to consult a periodontist. Early intervention with a specialist like Dr. Anderson ensures more conservative and successful outcomes in treating gum recession.
To schedule a personalized gum recession evaluation, call Anderson Periodontal Wellness at (248) 480-4910. Dr. Anderson and her team offer expert periodontal care in Bloomfield Hills, conveniently serving patients across Oakland County, MI.
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