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Soft Tissue Grafting

Restoring Gum Health, Comfort, and Aesthetics

Gum recession can lead to sensitivity, root exposure, and aesthetic concerns — but more importantly, it can compromise the long-term stability of your teeth. At Perio Implant Harmony, we offer soft tissue grafting to rebuild receded gums, protect vulnerable tooth roots, and restore both function and appearance.

Performed by a registered specialist periodontist, this procedure is carefully planned and gently delivered to support lasting oral health.

What Is Soft Tissue Grafting?

Soft tissue grafting (also known as gum grafting) is a surgical procedure that involves placing healthy tissue in areas where gum recession has occurred. It is typically recommended to support the following outcomes, depending on individual needs:

  1. Help cover exposed tooth roots

2. Increase the thickness of gum tissue in affected areas

3. May assist in reducing further gum recession

4. May help reduce sensitivity for some patients

5. Support the soft tissue contour around teeth or implants

While results vary, soft tissue grafting is often part of a broader treatment plan to help protect exposed root surfaces and maintain gum health over the long term. Your periodontist will assess whether this approach is appropriate based on your specific condition.

When Is Gum Grafting Recommended?

You may benefit from a soft tissue graft if you have:

  • Noticeable gum recession or exposed roots
  • Sensitivity to hot or cold at the gumline
  • Thin or fragile gum tissue
  • A history of aggressive brushing or periodontal disease
  • Plans for orthodontic treatment or implant placement in areas with inadequate gum volume

Gum grafting can also be used to correct uneven gumlines or prepare for other restorative procedures.

Types of Grafts Used

Connective Tissue Graft

The most common type. Tissue is taken from beneath the surface of the palate and placed over the exposed root

Free Gingival Graft

A thin layer of tissue from the palate is placed in areas with very thin gums to increase thickness and resilience.

Pedicle Graft

Tissue is repositioned from adjacent areas to cover the recession, maintaining blood supply and reducing healing time. This option is ideal for patients with sufficient nearby gum tissue.

All grafting procedures are planned carefully and performed under local anaesthesia for your comfort.

Our Approach to Soft Tissue Grafting

1. Consultation & Assessment

We begin with a full clinical evaluation, including measuring recession depth, assessing tissue quality, and reviewing medical and dental history.

2. Graft Planning

We select the most suitable graft type based on your anatomy and goals. Detailed imaging and diagnostics are used to guide surgical precision.

3. Surgical Procedure

The graft is placed under sterile conditions and secured using fine sutures. You’ll be provided with post-operative instructions and support throughout your recovery.

4. Follow-Up & Healing

Healing typically occurs over a few weeks, with continued improvements in appearance and comfort over time. We review healing progress and provide maintenance advice at each review.

Why Choose Perio Implant Harmony?

Soft tissue grafting is a delicate procedure that requires a detailed understanding of gum anatomy, aesthetics, and healing biology. At Perio Implant Harmony, all grafting procedures are performed by a registered periodontist with advanced training in periodontal plastic surgery.

Our focus is on delivering evidence-based care with clear communication and ongoing support. We aim to plan treatments carefully to support long-term oral health and patient wellbeing, with a respectful and collaborative approach at every stage.

Book a Soft Tissue Graft Consultation

If you’ve noticed gum recession, sensitivity, or concerns about your gumline, we can help. Early intervention leads to better outcomes and long-term oral stability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Soft Tissue Graft Consultation

The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia and most patients report only mild discomfort during recovery. We provide detailed aftercare to help you heal comfortably.

In most cases, tissue is taken from your own palate (roof of the mouth). In certain situations, donor tissue or grafting materials may also be used — this will be discussed during planning.

Initial healing takes 1–2 weeks, with full integration of the graft over several weeks. Most patients return to normal routines quickly with some minor modifications during early recovery.

While rare, graft failure can occur due to poor healing, infection, or inadequate aftercare. We use careful technique and provide close follow-up to reduce this risk significantly.

Soft tissue grafting is planned to support gum health and help protect exposed roots. In some cases, this approach can also improve the contour of the gumline. Healing and appearance vary between individuals, and your periodontist will discuss expected outcomes, risks, and after‑care before treatment.

When well-maintained, grafts can provide long-term stability. Continued good oral hygiene and periodontal maintenance are essential to protect your investment.

Perio Implant Harmony provides specialist periodontal and implant care.

Dr Henry Lee is a specialist periodontist trained at the University of Adelaide and the University of Melbourne, supporting patients and referring dentists through clear, professional care.

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