Gum graft in Dubai — connective tissue and free gingival grafts for receding gums

Key facts

• Grafts cover roots or thicken thin gum
• Connective tissue graft: root coverage, natural colour
• Free gingival graft: firm protective gum band
• Cause of recession must be controlled first
• Initial healing about two weeks; maturing over months

What causes gum recession

Gum recession happens when the gum margin moves down and exposes part of the root. Common causes include brushing too hard or with a hard brush, gum disease that has destroyed supporting bone, naturally thin gum tissue, teeth positioned outside the bone after crowding or orthodontic movement, lip or tongue piercings, tight muscle attachments (frenum) and clenching or grinding. Smoking also increases the risk. The first step is always to identify and control the cause, because a graft placed without changing brushing habits or treating gum disease is less likely to remain stable. Recession is measured in millimetres and photographed so changes can be followed over time.

Connective tissue graft versus free gingival graft

Two grafts are used most often. A connective tissue graft takes tissue from under the surface of the palate and places it beneath a small flap of gum at the recession site; it is mainly used to cover exposed roots and blends well in colour, so it suits visible front teeth. A free gingival graft takes a thin layer of surface tissue from the palate and places it directly where the gum is thin or missing; its main aim is to create a band of firm, keratinised gum that resists further recession, often on lower front teeth. In some cases donor material is used instead of palate tissue, depending on the plan.

Who is a good candidate for gum grafting

Grafting is considered when recession is progressing, causes sensitivity or root decay, affects appearance in the smile, or when gum is too thin before orthodontic treatment or crowns. It works best when gum disease is controlled, oral hygiene is good and the patient does not smoke or is willing to stop around the surgery. The amount of bone between the teeth strongly influences how much root coverage is realistic, which is why X-rays and careful measurements come first. Small, stable recession without symptoms may simply be monitored and managed with gentler brushing and desensitising toothpaste rather than surgery.

What happens during the procedure

Gum grafting is carried out under local anaesthetic, so the area is numb throughout. The root surface is cleaned, the recipient area is prepared, and the graft tissue is taken and secured with fine stitches. If tissue is taken from the palate, the donor site is protected with stitches or a dressing, and a protective plate may be provided. The procedure for one area typically takes around one to two hours. Patients can usually go home the same day and return to light activities the next day. Your treating clinician explains which graft type and technique suits your recession pattern before you consent.

Healing, aftercare and results

Most people feel soreness for several days, often more at the palate than at the graft site, managed with recommended pain relief. For about two weeks you avoid brushing the grafted area, use the prescribed mouthwash, eat soft cool foods and avoid chewing on that side. Stitches are usually removed or dissolve within one to two weeks. The graft matures and blends over several months. Root coverage can be partial or complete depending on bone levels and gum thickness, and results are maintained through gentle brushing technique and regular gum check-ups. Call the clinic about heavy bleeding, increasing swelling after day three, or fever.

Gum disease starts as gingivitis — red, bleeding gums — and can progress to periodontitis, where bone support is lost and teeth loosen. Early treatment stops the progression.

Prepared by the Manhal Medical Center editorial team · Updated: 2026-10-18 · Treating specialist: Dr. Fariba Alnoory

This page is general information and does not replace a consultation. Suitability, risks and results vary between patients.