Gum Recession Treatment Explained

Gum grafting (soft-tissue grafting) rebuilds thin or receding gums to cover exposed roots, reduce sensitivity and protect teeth. At Dentistry on Solent in Bella Vista, we provide modern techniques with personalised care for natural-looking results.

Contact us if you have any more questions!

    About Dr Sejal Rai

    As a University of Sydney graduate, Dr Rai has a diverse background. After growing up in central Africa and completing her secondary education and Bachelor’s degree in the US, she is well positioned to treat a wide variety of multicultural patients. With a keen eye for precision and great chairside manner, she is described by her patients as being caring, kind and totally committed to patient care.

    Away from the practice, Dr Rai loves spending quality time with her 3 children and this allows her to treat children and special needs patients with an unparalleled level of ease. In addition, her focus and passion for helping adults achieve their perfect smile is a great motivator and is what keeps her at the forefront of modern dentistry in Bella Vista.

    Quick answers

    • Best for: receding gums, root sensitivity, long-looking teeth, protecting teeth from further wear.
    • Comfort: local anaesthetic as standard; sleep dentistry (sedation) available if you’re anxious.
    • Time: most grafts take 45–90 minutes; home the same day.
    • Healing: initial healing ~1–2 weeks; full maturation over several months.
    • Longevity: with good care, results can last many years.
    • Near you: Norwest, Kellyville, Baulkham Hills, Castle Hill, Glenwood, Rouse Hill and surrounds.

    What is gum grafting?

    Gum grafting restores lost gum around teeth. Depending on your case, we may:

    • Reposition nearby gum (coronally advanced flap) to cover exposed root.
    • Add a thin connective tissue graft to thicken fragile gum and improve coverage.
    • Use minimally invasive tunnelling techniques where suitable to reduce sutures and improve comfort.

    We’ll ensure your gums are healthy first. If any signs of infection are present, we’ll stabilise with gum disease treatment before grafting.

    Who is a good candidate?

    • Sensitivity to cold, touch or brushing
    • Longer-looking teeth or dark root edges near the gumline
    • Notches at the necks of teeth from wear
    • A thin, delicate gumline that keeps receding

    How much does gum grafting cost in Sydney?

    Every mouth is different, so we provide itemised treatment plans after assessment. As a guide only, single-site soft-tissue grafts typically start in the mid-hundreds per tooth area in Sydney; multi-site or complex cases are higher. Sedation and adjunct treatments can affect the fee. You’ll receive a fixed quote with health-fund item numbers before treatment.

    Is gum grafting painful?

    Treatment is done under local anaesthetic, so you should be comfortable. Afterwards expect mild–moderate tenderness for a few days. We’ll provide pain-relief advice, a gentle rinse plan and a soft-diet guide. If dental anxiety has held you back, ask about sedation options.

    How long does gum grafting take to heal?

    • Days 1–3: mild swelling/tenderness; avoid disturbing the area.
    • Days 4–14: stitches (if used) dissolve/are removed; most people feel normal again.
    • Weeks 4–12: tissue matures and strengthens; contour continues to improve.

    How long does a gum graft last?

    With stable gum health, gentle brushing and regular professional care, results can last many years. Smoking, heavy clenching/grinding or untreated gum disease can shorten longevity—your dentist will outline prevention.

    What to eat after gum grafting

    For the first week, stick to soft foods: yoghurt, smoothies (no seeds), scrambled eggs, pasta, mashed vegetables, soups, soft fish, ripe bananas. Avoid crusty breads, chips, nuts, spicy foods and anything that could catch on stitches. Chew away from the treated site until we advise otherwise.

    How successful is gum grafting?

    In carefully selected cases, grafting has a high success rate for root coverage and thickening fragile gum. Success improves when contributing factors are addressed (brushing technique, frenum pull, clenching) and you follow the aftercare plan.

    When is it too late for gum grafting?

    It’s rarely “too late”, but if recession is severe with advanced bone loss or tooth mobility, grafting may be less predictable. We’ll discuss alternatives such as conservative restoration, or if a tooth can’t be maintained, replacement options like dental implants or interim dentures.

    Your appointment: what to expect

    1. Comprehensive exam, photos and gum-health assessment
    2. Stabilisation of any gum inflammation if needed
    3. Personalised graft plan (technique, number of sites, comfort options)
    4. Procedure day – typically 45–90 minutes
    5. Follow-ups at ~1-2 weeks and again at 6-12 weeks

    People Also Ask (PAA)

    How much is gum grafting?

    Fees vary with technique and number of sites. Expect a personalised quote after assessment; simple single-site grafts start in the mid-hundreds per area in Sydney. Health-fund contributions depend on your cover.

    Is gum grafting painful?

    You’ll be numb during the procedure. Afterwards most people report mild soreness for a few days, managed with simple pain relief and a soft-food diet.

    How long does gum grafting take to heal?

    Initial healing is 1–2 weeks; gums continue to mature for several months.

    How long does a gum graft last?

    With good hygiene, gentle brushing and regular reviews, results often last many years.

    When is it too late for gum grafting?

    In advanced recession with significant bone loss or mobility, grafting may be less predictable. Your dentist will advise alternatives and long-term options.

    What does gum grafting look like?

    Early on the area may look fuller or a little paler; as healing progresses the colour blends and the contour looks natural.

    Who performs gum grafting?

    General dentists with training and specialist periodontists perform gum grafts. We coordinate your care in-house and, where helpful, with trusted specialists.

    How long does gum graft surgery take?

    Most single-site grafts take around 45–90 minutes, depending on the technique and number of areas.

    What should I eat after gum grafting?

    Choose soft, non-crunchy foods for the first week and avoid chewing on the treated area until we confirm it’s safe.

    Aftercare & prevention

    • Use a soft brush and the technique we demonstrate (no scrubbing).
    • Consider a custom night guard if you clench or grind.
    • Avoid smoking/vaping to support healing.
    • Maintain regular hygiene visits to keep gums healthy.

    Ready to Protect Your Gums?

    Call (02) 9158 6137 or book online to schedule your gum graft consultation in Bella Vista.
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