Are your gums pulling back from your teeth? Do you feel a sharp sting when you sip something cold? You’re not alone. Gum graft surgery is helping thousands of people restore their gum line and protect their teeth from further damage.
Receding gums affect nearly 88% of people over 65, but the problem can start much earlier. If you’ve noticed your teeth looking longer or feel sensitivity that wasn’t there before, it’s time to understand your options. Gum graft surgery offers a proven solution with a 90-95% success rate.
Let’s explore what this procedure involves, how long recovery takes, and what it costs in 2026.
What Is Gum Graft Surgery?
Gum graft surgery is a dental procedure that repairs receding gums by placing new tissue over exposed tooth roots. When gums recede, they expose parts of your teeth that should remain covered, leading to sensitivity and increased risk of decay.
Your gums can recede for several reasons:
- Brushing too hard with stiff-bristled brushes
- Gum disease (periodontitis)
- Genetics and aging
- Teeth grinding or clenching
- Tobacco use
The surgery involves taking tissue from another part of your mouth (usually the roof) or using donor tissue, then attaching it to the area where your gums have receded. This protects your tooth roots and stops further recession.
Types of Gum Graft Surgery
– Connective Tissue Graft
This is the most common type of gum graft surgery. Your dentist takes tissue from under the skin on the roof of your mouth and stitches it to the receding gum area. This method works well for treating multiple teeth at once and has an 85-90% success rate.
– Free Gingival Graft
Instead of taking tissue from beneath the surface, this method uses tissue directly from the roof of your mouth. It’s best for people who have naturally thin gums and need extra thickness for protection.
– Pedicle Graft
If you have plenty of gum tissue near the recession, your dentist might use this nearby tissue instead. They partially cut the tissue, stretch it over the exposed root, and stitch it in place. This option works only if you have enough gum tissue adjacent to the problem area.
The Gum Graft Surgery Procedure
Before your gum graft surgery, your dentist will numb the area completely. You won’t feel pain during the procedure, which typically takes 60-90 minutes.
Here’s what happens:
Step 1: Local anesthesia numbs both the donor site and the treatment area
Step 2: The dentist carefully removes a small piece of tissue from the roof of your mouth (or uses donor tissue)
Step 3: They clean the exposed root surface
Step 4: The graft tissue is positioned over the recession and secured with stitches
Step 5: The donor site is also stitched closed
You’ll leave with gauze pads and specific instructions for the first 24 hours.
Recovery Timeline After Gum Graft Surgery
– First Week
This is the most important healing phase. You’ll experience some discomfort, typically rated 3-4 out of 10 with pain medication. The roof of your mouth (donor site) usually feels more uncomfortable than the graft itself.
- What to eat: Soft, cool foods like yogurt, smoothies, mashed potatoes, eggs, and ice cream. Avoid anything hot, spicy, crunchy, or chewy.
- Pain management: Take prescribed medications on schedule. Use ice packs on your face for the first 48 hours to reduce swelling.
- Oral care: Don’t brush the surgical area. Use a prescribed antibacterial rinse gently. You can carefully brush other teeth.
– Weeks 2-4
Swelling and discomfort decrease significantly. Most people return to work after 2-3 days for desk jobs, though you might have some facial swelling.
Your stitches will be removed around the 2-week mark. You can gradually add more foods to your diet but continue avoiding hard or sharp items that could disturb the healing tissue.
– Months 1-3
The graft tissue fully integrates with your existing gums. The area may look slightly different in color initially, but it typically blends in within 3-6 months. This is when you’ll see the final results of your gum graft surgery.
Cost of Gum Graft Surgery in 2026
Gum graft surgery costs vary based on several factors:
- Connective tissue graft: ₹15,000-₹40,000 per tooth
- Free gingival graft: ₹18,000-₹45,000 per tooth
- Pedicle graft: ₹12,000-₹35,000 per tooth
- Donor tissue (allografts): Additional ₹8,000-₹20,000
The total cost depends on:
- How many teeth need treatment
- The type of procedure required
- Your location (metro cities cost more)
- Your dentist’s experience
- Sedation options chosen
Many dental insurance plans cover 40-80% of gum graft surgery costs when the procedure is medically necessary (not just cosmetic). Check with your provider about pre-authorization requirements.
Is Gum Graft Surgery Painful?
During the procedure, you won’t feel pain due to local anesthesia. Afterward, most patients rate their discomfort as mild to moderate, especially with pain medication.
The donor site on the roof of your mouth typically causes more discomfort than the graft site itself. This usually lasts 3-7 days. Following your dentist’s instructions closely helps minimize pain and speeds healing.
Success Rates and Results
Gum graft surgery has a 90-95% success rate. Most grafts integrate permanently when you follow post-operative care instructions. Within 3-6 months, you should see:
- Reduced tooth sensitivity
- Better gum coverage over exposed roots
- Improved appearance
- Protection against further recession
The results are generally permanent, though new recession can occur in untreated areas if you don’t address the underlying causes.
Protecting Your Gums After Surgery
After your gum graft surgery heals, protect your investment:
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle circular motions
- Don’t brush too hard or aggressively
- Floss daily but carefully around the graft area
- Visit your dentist for regular cleanings every 6 months
- Wear a night guard if you grind your teeth
- Quit smoking and tobacco use
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. How long does gum graft surgery take?
Most procedures take 60-90 minutes, depending on how many teeth are being treated.
Q2. When can I eat normally again?
You can return to most normal foods after 2-3 weeks, but avoid hard or sharp foods for 4-6 weeks.
Q3. Will the graft match my natural gums?
Yes, within 3-6 months, the grafted tissue typically blends seamlessly with your existing gums.
Q4. Is the surgery worth it?
For moderate to severe recession, yes. It prevents further damage, reduces sensitivity, and improves both function and appearance with long-lasting results.
Take the First Step Toward Healthier Gums
Don’t let gum recession continue unchecked. The sooner you address it, the better your outcomes will be. Gum graft surgery can restore your gum line, eliminate sensitivity, and protect your teeth for years to come.
If you’re in Pune and experiencing gum recession, Dr. Mahesh Mali at Nextcare Dental Clinic on Porwal Road specializes in gum graft surgery and periodontal care. With careful attention to patient comfort and proven surgical techniques, Dr. Mali helps patients achieve healthy, natural-looking results.
Schedule your consultation today to discuss whether gum graft surgery is right for you. Early treatment means simpler procedures and better outcomes.
Contact Nextcare Dental Clinic on Porwal Road, Pune, and take control of your gum health. Your smile deserves the best care available.
