Gum grafts for receding gums in Chiang Mai
Receding gums expose the roots of the teeth, which can make them sensitive and look longer. A periodontist first looks for the cause; when the gum needs rebuilding, a gum graft can thicken thin gum and, in some cases, cover an exposed root. The gum usually heals in about 4–8 weeks. Kitcha Dental Clinic has served Chiang Mai since 1981.
- Open every day, 09:00–20:00
- Opposite Chiang Mai Gate
- Coordinators in English and Thai
Is this you?
- Your teeth look longer than before, or you can see a yellowish root near the gum line.
- Teeth feel sensitive to cold, or when you brush near the gum.
- The gum around one or two teeth looks thin, or has pulled back.
- Your dentist or orthodontist has mentioned gum recession.
Not every case of recession needs surgery. Your periodontist explains what your gums need after examining them.
Why gums recede
Gum recession can have more than one cause, for example gum disease, brushing too hard, naturally thin gum or the position of a tooth. Gum disease that is not treated can lead to recession and, in time, loose teeth.
Because the right treatment depends on the cause, your periodontist checks your gums and the bone around the teeth before recommending a graft.
How gum recession is treated
Treating the cause first
Gum disease treatment and a gentler way of brushing can help stop recession getting worse.
A gum graft
When the gum needs to be thicker, or a root needs covering, gum tissue is added to the area.
Regular check-ups
Small recession that is not getting worse may only need to be checked at your regular visits.
What is a gum graft?
Connective tissue graft (CTG)
A thin piece of tissue, usually from the roof of the mouth, is placed under the gum to thicken it or to cover an exposed root.
Gingival graft (FGG)
A piece of gum tissue from the roof of the mouth is placed on the area to create a band of firm gum where it is thin.
Tissue substitute
In some cases, a tissue substitute material is used instead of, or as well as, tissue from the roof of the mouth. Your periodontist explains which option suits you.
What a graft can achieve
A graft aims to stop recession getting worse and, in some cases, to cover the exposed root. How much can be covered depends on the gum and bone around the tooth, and your periodontist explains what to expect.
Worried about receding gums?
Send a clear photo of the area if you have one. Your dentist looks at it and explains your options before any treatment starts.
Steps, and how long a gum graft takes to heal
Gum examination
Your periodontist checks and charts your gums, takes X-rays if needed and explains the plan.
Treating gum disease first, if present
Inflamed gums are treated before a graft so that the graft has healthy tissue to heal into.
Graft surgery
The graft is placed under local anesthesia and held with stitches, and you go home the same day.
Check-ups
Stitches are usually removed 7–14 days after surgery, and there are usually 2 follow-up visits to check the healing; your periodontist confirms this for your case. If you live out of town or abroad, plan to stay until the stitches are removed.
In the first 1–3 days some pain, swelling or bleeding is common. If tissue was taken from the roof of the mouth, that area is usually sore for 3–5 days. The gum usually heals in about 4–8 weeks, and its shape can keep settling for 3–6 months.
Too much gum, or dark gums?
If your teeth look short because of extra gum, the gum line can be reshaped by gingivectomy, crown lengthening or laser gum contouring. Dark patches of gum pigment can be lightened with laser depigmentation. Your dentist checks first whether reshaping suits your teeth and bone.
Cost of a gum graft
Gum grafts are priced under gum surgery on our prices page, per treated area. Your periodontist gives you a treatment plan and estimate after the gum examination, including any graft materials your case needs.
Prices on our prices page are shown as ranges. Your final fee depends on what the examination finds, and may include additional items — such as a rubber dam or special materials — when your treatment needs them. Your dentist explains these before treatment.
Who treats you
Gum grafts are done by our periodontists, dentists with postgraduate training in gum treatment.
Gum graft FAQs
How long does a gum graft take to heal?
The gum usually heals in about 4–8 weeks, and its shape can keep settling for 3–6 months. The first 1–3 days may be sore or swollen, and if tissue was taken from the roof of the mouth, that area is usually sore for 3–5 days.
How long should I stay in Chiang Mai after a gum graft?
Plan to stay until the stitches are removed, usually 7–14 days after surgery. There are usually 2 follow-up visits, and your periodontist confirms the timing for your case.
How much does a gum graft cost?
Gum grafts are priced under gum surgery on our prices page. Your periodontist confirms the fee after the gum examination; the final fee depends on what the examination finds and may include additional items.
Does a gum graft hurt?
The area is numbed with local anesthesia during surgery. Afterwards, soreness and swelling in the first few days is common, especially where tissue was taken from the roof of the mouth; your dentist advises on pain relief.
Can receding gums grow back by themselves?
Gum that has receded generally does not grow back on its own. Treating the cause can help stop it getting worse, and a gum graft can rebuild gum where it is needed.
Will a graft cover the whole root?
Not always. A graft aims to stop recession getting worse and, in some cases, to cover the exposed root. How much can be covered depends on the gum and bone around the tooth, and your periodontist explains this before surgery.
What should I avoid after a gum graft?
For the first 24 hours, do not rinse, spit or use a straw. Avoid smoking and alcohol for at least 7 days, strenuous exercise for 5–7 days, and chewing on the treated side. Brush gently with a soft brush and keep away from the surgical area until your dentist says otherwise.
Can a laser be used instead of a gum graft?
No. A laser can reshape the gum line or lighten dark gum pigment, but it cannot replace a gum graft: only a graft adds gum where it is missing or thin. At the clinic, the laser is also used to treat gum disease when your dentist finds it suitable.
Book a gum check
Tell us which teeth are affected, or send a clear photo. A coordinator replies in English or Thai. Open every day, 09:00–20:00 (Thailand time).
Or email us at [email protected]
Content reviewed by Dr. Pawak Tungthangthum — DDS, Chiang Mai University; Master's Degree in Esthetic Restorative and Implant Dentistry (International Program), Chulalongkorn University · Last reviewed