Does Any of This Sound Familiar?
Teeth feel sharp or painful with temperature
Your smile looks longer than it used to
Brushing certain areas causes discomfort
You hold back smiling in photos or conversations
Your dentist has mentioned recession at recent visits
You worry your teeth are at risk of damage
These concerns are valid, and the good news is that gum recession is treatable. There are options that can restore what has been lost and prevent further problems from developing.
What Happens When Recession Goes Untreated?
Sensitivity Gets Worse
Exposed roots have no protective enamel, so discomfort from temperature and pressure increases over time.
Recession Continues Spreading
Without treatment, the tissue line keeps pulling back and the exposed area grows larger.
Roots Become Vulnerable
Tooth roots are softer than enamel and more prone to decay, putting multiple teeth at risk.
Treatment Becomes More Complex
The further recession progresses, the more involved the grafting procedure required to correct it.
Tooth Stability Is Affected
Advanced recession reduces the support structure around your teeth, which can affect long-term retention.
Costs Increase Over Time
What can be addressed with a single graft today may require more extensive work if left to progress.
Addressing recession earlier means a simpler procedure, faster healing, and better long-term outcomes for your teeth.
What Is a Soft Tissue Graft?
A soft tissue graft is a periodontal procedure used to repair areas where the gum tissue has pulled away from the teeth, exposing the root surface below. The graft material, typically taken from the roof of the mouth or obtained through a donor source, is placed over the exposed area and secured to encourage new tissue growth. The goal is to rebuild the gumline, reduce sensitivity, and create a stable protective barrier around the affected teeth.
At Icon Dental Implant Center, we approach soft tissue grafts with detailed planning and close attention to how the tissue integrates with your existing gumline. Patients in Southfield seeking soft tissue graft treatment benefit from our use of advanced imaging to assess recession depth and map the area before any work begins. This allows us to approach each case with accuracy and a clear picture of what the tissue needs to heal well.
Results typically stabilize within 4 to 6 weeks
Graft material integrates with surrounding tissue over time
Most patients see visible improvement in gumline coverage
Common Struggles We Hear From Patients
Be our Next Success Story!
Request an appointment with one of our doctors and start your smile journey today.
Benefits of Soft Tissue Graft
Sensitivity Relief You Can Feel
Roots Protected from Further Damage
Gumline That Looks Natural Again
Stability for the Long Term
Comfort Eating and Drinking Restored
Peace of Mind About Your Teeth
See What's Possible for Your Smile
These aren’t just teeth; they’re life-changing transformations that restore confidence and comfort. Each before-and-after photo represents a patient who trusted us with their smile journey.
Be our Next Success Story!
Request an appointment with one of our doctors and start your smile journey today.
Is a Soft Tissue Graft Right for You?
Experiencing ongoing sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks
Noticed that your teeth appear longer than they did in the past
Been told by a dentist that your gums are receding or thinning
Wanting to protect healthy teeth before recession advances further
Have exposed root surfaces that are causing discomfort or concern
Not Sure If You Qualify?
What to Expect During Your Soft Tissue Graft
Consultation and Assessment
Your first visit focuses entirely on understanding your situation. We examine the areas of recession, measure tissue depth, and review imaging to get a complete picture of what is happening below the surface. You leave with a clear explanation of what the graft will address and what the process involves.
Preparation and Anesthesia
On the day of your procedure, the treatment area and donor site are thoroughly numbed so you remain comfortable throughout. For patients with dental anxiety, sedation options are available and can be arranged in advance. Once everything is in place, you will feel at ease before anything begins.
Graft Placement
Tissue is carefully positioned over the area of recession and sutured into place. The goal is precise coverage of the exposed root surface and a natural integration with the surrounding gumline. The process is methodical and typically completed in a single visit.
Healing and Integration
Over the following weeks, the grafted tissue begins to fuse with the existing gum and take on its permanent form. You will return for a follow-up visit so we can confirm the tissue is healing well and answer any questions that come up during recovery.
Final Results
Once healing is complete, the restored gumline provides lasting coverage and protection for the treated teeth. Most patients notice a significant reduction in sensitivity and a gumline that looks and feels like a natural part of their smile.
Ready to Stop Recession Before It Goes Further?
What Recovery Looks Like After a Soft Tissue Graft
First 24 to 48 Hours
Some mild swelling and tenderness in the treated area is normal during the first couple of days. Soft foods are recommended, and keeping activity light helps the tissue settle into place. Over-the-counter or prescribed medication keeps discomfort at a manageable level for most patients.
First One to Two Weeks
Tenderness gradually decreases and the graft begins to integrate with the surrounding tissue. You will continue with soft foods and gentle oral hygiene in the treated area. Most patients find they return to their regular routine within a week, with only minor adjustments to eating habits remaining.
Long-Term Healing
Full tissue integration typically completes within four to six weeks. As the graft matures, it becomes indistinguishable from the surrounding gumline. Follow-up visits during this period allow us to track your progress and confirm that everything is healing as expected.
Questions About Recovery? We are here to help.
Flexible Payment Plans for Your Smile
NO Credit Score Impact Until Plan Selected.
NO Credit Score Impact Until Plan Selected.
NO Credit Score Impact Until Plan Selected.
Don't Wait to Smile. Check out Our Payment Options.
Soft Tissue Graft FAQs
Is the soft tissue graft procedure painful?
Where does the graft tissue come from?
How long does the procedure take?
Will my gums look natural after the graft?
How many teeth can be treated in one appointment?
Is a soft tissue graft permanent?
What causes gum recession in the first place?
Can I eat normally after the procedure?
How do I know if my recession is serious enough to need a graft?
Am I too old for a soft tissue graft?
Still Have Questions?​
