Tiếng Việt
COSMETIC GUM GRAFTING
Restoring The Perfect Contour For A Natural Smile
Cosmetic Gum Grafting
You might think that having straight, bright teeth is all it takes for a beautiful smile, until you realize that the gumline is what truly defines harmony. Receding gums can make teeth appear longer than normal. Uneven gums, higher on one side and lower on the other, can throw off the entire balance of your smile. And suddenly, you find yourself smiling less, or smiling without the natural ease you once had.
Gum grafting is not a trick to “hide imperfections”. It is a dental solution that restores the delicate harmony between teeth and gums, giving you a healthy, natural, and complete smile.
At Platinum Dental Group, we believe every beautiful smile begins with the smallest details. And the gums are an essential part you simply can’t overlook.
What is gum grafting?
Gum grafting is a dental procedure that restores areas of receded or uneven gum tissue, improving the appearance of the gumline and protecting natural teeth. This method uses either the patient’s own gum tissue (typically taken from the palate) or a biological graft to cover exposed tooth roots and reshape the gumline for a balanced look that complements the teeth and mouth.
Timing for gum grafting and causes of gum recession
When gum grafting is needed
You may need a gum graft if you experience any of the following conditions:
- Gum recession exposing the tooth roots, making teeth appear longer, increasing sensitivity, and reducing aesthetics
- Uneven gumline that throws off the balance of your smile
- Gum damage or significant tissue loss after periodontal (gum disease) treatment
- Exposed roots following tartar removal or gum tissue injury
- Before cosmetic restorations (such as crowns or veneers) to create an even gumline that hugs the teeth properly
Causes of gum recession and uneven gums
Gum recession or an uneven gumline can result from various factors, including:
- Incorrect brushing technique or using excessive force, which damages gum tissue
- Chronic periodontal disease leading to tissue loss and gum recession
- Misaligned teeth or improper bite causing uneven chewing pressure
- Trauma from chewing, accidents, or previous dental procedures
- Genetic factors, as some people naturally have thinner gum tissue that is more prone to recession
Common gum grafting techniques
Depending on the degree of gum recession, treatment area, and current gum condition, dentists at Platinum Dental Group will recommend the most appropriate grafting method. Below are three widely used and effective gum grafting techniques:
Autogenous free gingival graft
This technique involves taking a small piece of gum tissue from the patient’s own palate (roof of the mouth) and grafting it directly onto the receded or thin gum area.
Pros:
- Increases gum thickness and strengthens tissue attachment
- Provides long-lasting results, especially for molar areas
- Suitable for severe recession and weak underlying tissue
Note: Mild soreness at the donor site may occur in the first few days but typically heals quickly with proper care.
Subepithelial connective tissue graft
Instead of taking a full-thickness gum piece, the dentist removes only the connective tissue beneath the surface layer, effectively covering exposed roots while preserving the outer mucosa.
Pros:
- Less discomfort compared to a full free graft
- High aesthetic outcome, ideal for front teeth and visible smile zones
- Shorter recovery time with minimal swelling or post-procedure discomfort
This method is especially popular for gum recession in highly visible areas, providing excellent cosmetic improvement and relief from root sensitivity.
Allograft (biologic graft)
For patients who cannot or prefer not to use their own tissue, the dentist uses sterilized donor tissue sourced from a certified tissue bank.
Pros:
- No need for a donor site, resulting in less pain and simpler treatment
- Short treatment time, convenient for busy patients
- Safe and rigorously tested for sterility
- Produces good aesthetic results when properly indicated and performed
This technique is ideal for those seeking a gentle, minimally invasive experience while still achieving significant improvement in gum recession.
Gum grafting procedure
At Platinum Dental Group, the gum grafting process follows strict medical standards, is personalized for each case, and ensures safety, comfort and optimal aesthetics. The treatment typically includes five key steps:
Step 1
Comprehensive examination and diagnosis
Step 2
Personalized treatment planning and consultation
Step 3
Cleaning and preparing the treatment area
Step 4
Gum grafting procedure
Step 5
Post-operative care and follow-up
Step 1: Comprehensive examination and diagnosis
The dentist thoroughly evaluates the condition of the gums, teeth, and surrounding tissues, using X-rays if needed to accurately assess the level of gum recession, tissue thickness and determine the appropriate grafting technique (autogenous tissue or biological material).
Step 2: Personalized treatment planning and consultation
Based on clinical analysis, the dentist develops a detailed treatment plan specifying graft sites, graft type, surgical technique and expected recovery timeline. Patients receive clear explanations of each step and pre-treatment instructions, including oral hygiene preparation and any necessary medication adjustments for underlying health conditions.
Step 3: Cleaning and preparing the treatment area
Before grafting, the target area is thoroughly cleaned, including tartar removal, polishing and antiseptic rinsing. This step minimizes the risk of infection and creates optimal conditions for healing.
Step 4: Gum grafting procedure
Local anesthesia is gently administered to the treatment site. The dentist then harvests graft tissue from the donor area (if using autogenous tissue) or prepares the biological graft material. The graft is carefully shaped and securely sutured into place using specialized bio-sutures. The entire process is performed in a sterile, precise, and minimally invasive manner.
Step 5: Post-operative care and follow-up
After the procedure, the patient is prescribed pain relief and anti-inflammatory medication if necessary, along with detailed at-home care instructions. A follow-up appointment is typically scheduled 7-10 days later to monitor healing progress and remove sutures if required.
Cosmetic gum grafting dentist at Platinum Dental
Doctor Tran Lan Anh
As the co-founder and currently the Head of the Cosmetic Dentistry Department at Platinum Dental, Dr. Lan Anh is one of the pioneers in applying Digital Smile Design (DSD) technology to dental veneer treatment in Vietnam. With a solid professional foundation from training programs in France, Canada, and Spain, the doctor constantly improves her techniques and aesthetic thinking to bring about the most delicate, sustainable, and suitable results for every face. At Platinum Dental, Dr. Lan Anh directly performs:
- Dental Veneer with Digital Smile Design
- Comprehensive dental restoration for discolored, worn, slightly misaligned teeth
- Improve gummy smile combined with gum contour and restoration
- Personalized smile design according to facial proportions
Always dedicated in every consultation, meticulous in every operation, and precise to every detail – Dr. Lan Anh has become the person trusted by thousands of domestic and foreign customers to entrust their smiles. For her, each treatment case is not simply a dental technique, but the process of creating a work of art that is created with all her heart and the journey of accumulating in-depth experience.
Doctor Bui Quoc Duy
As one of the promising young faces at Platinum Dental, Dr. Bui Quoc Duy is currently specializing in general dentistry, dental restoration and pediatric dentistry. With a growth mindset, patience and empathy in every interaction, the doctor always creates a sense of trust and comfort for every customer.At Platinum Dental, Dr. Quoc Duy directly performs:
- Cosmetic dental fillings for adults and children
- Teeth whitening with advanced technology
- Restoring molars and incisors
- Treatment of cavities and tooth wear
- Regular general check-ups and oral health monitoring for the whole family
With a thorough, friendly and effective treatment style, Doctor Bui Quoc Duy always strives to make every customer – from babies to the elderly – feel safe and satisfied when coming to Platinum. For him, dentistry is not only about healing teeth, but also a journey to care for smiles with dedication and responsibility.
Reasons to choose gum grafting at Platinum Dental Group
Highly skilled and experienced dentists
The dental team at Platinum Dental Group has extensive expertise in gum grafting techniques, treating gum recession and correcting exposed or uneven gum areas caused by previous improper treatments.
Accurate diagnosis and root-cause treatment
Using X-rays and detailed analysis of gum proportions, teeth, bite alignment and overall facial structure, the doctors precisely identify the grafting area and the underlying causes of gum defects (such as gum recession, root wear or periodontal disease).
Personalized treatment plan
Each treatment protocol is tailored to the patient’s gum condition and aesthetic goals, ensuring a balanced, natural appearance that complements the overall smile.
Autogenous connective tissue grafting with no rejection risk
The procedure uses the patient’s own connective tissue combined with microsurgical suturing techniques to minimize invasiveness, reduce discomfort and accelerate healing.
Strict sterilization and close post-treatment monitoring
Every gum grafting case follows rigorous infection-control standards and is carefully monitored after surgery to guarantee long-lasting, stable results.
Cost of gum grafting
The cost of aesthetic gum grafting at Platinum Dental Group is flexible and depends on several factors, including:
- Current condition of the gum tissue and the extent of damage (gum recession, bone loss, exposed tooth roots, etc.)
- Number of teeth requiring treatment
- Type of grafting technique indicated (connective tissue graft, autogenous graft or biological graft)
Because each patient’s gum structure and aesthetic needs are unique, there is no fixed price list applied to everyone. Instead, the dentist will perform a thorough examination, analyze X-rays and assess the overall gum condition to recommend the most effective treatment plan with a cost that is both appropriate and transparent.
To receive an accurate cost estimate and a personalized treatment plan for your specific case, schedule a consultation with a periodontics specialist at Platinum Dental Group.
Tips for a successful gum graft
Gum grafting is a delicate minor surgery that requires a skilled dentist and careful cooperation from the patient. In addition to choosing a trusted clinic like Platinum Dental Group, you should follow these important guidelines before and after treatment to ensure the best and most lasting results.
Before the procedure
- Comprehensive examination and assessment: The dentist will accurately identify the cause of gum recession, evaluate soft tissue damage, and determine the most suitable grafting method (autogenous connective tissue graft, biological graft, etc.).
- X-rays and necessary tests: Ensure you are medically fit for the procedure, especially if you have underlying conditions such as diabetes or heart disease.
- Provide complete medical information: Inform the dentist of any medication allergies, current prescriptions, or previous periodontal treatments.
- Thorough oral cleaning: Have tartar removed and treat any gum inflammation to create the ideal environment for grafting and healing.
After the procedure
- Keep the dressing in place and avoid strong impact: For the first 48 hours, don’t spit forcefully or brush the grafted area.
- Avoid touching the graft site: Refrain from using fingers or tongue to prevent graft displacement or infection.
- Gentle rinsing: Use a chlorhexidine mouthwash and carefully clean surrounding areas with saline solution and sterile gauze.
- Appropriate diet: Eat soft, cool, vitamin-rich foods (such as soup, smoothies, yogurt) and avoid crunchy, spicy, hot or acidic items.
- Attend follow-up appointments as scheduled: Allow the dentist to check the graft, remove stitches at the right time and address any abnormal signs promptly.
FAQs about gum grafting
Does gum grafting hurt?
You will be given local anesthesia during the procedure, so there is no pain. After the anesthesia wears off, you may feel slight soreness or tightness for the first few days, but the dentist will prescribe pain relievers and provide care instructions to ensure a comfortable recovery.
How long does it take for the graft to fully heal?
Typically, the gum tissue begins to stabilize and close within 2-3 weeks. After about 4-6 weeks, the grafted area will be completely healed and blend naturally with the surrounding tissue.
Will the results last long-term?
If performed with proper technique and followed by good post-treatment care, the grafted gum tissue can remain stable for many years. Maintaining proper oral hygiene and attending regular checkups are key to preserving the results.
When is aesthetic gum grafting needed?
Gum grafting is recommended when gum recession exposes tooth roots, making teeth appear longer, causing sensitivity or after orthodontic treatment that results in gum tissue loss. It restores aesthetics, protects tooth roots and improves chewing function.
Does gum grafting affect daily activities?
You can continue your normal routine after the procedure, but avoid strenuous activities and hard or hot foods during the first few days. Your dentist will provide detailed instructions to help you recover quickly with minimal impact on daily life.
