Restoring Health and Aesthetics to Your Smile
Gum recession is a common condition that exposes the roots of the teeth, making them more sensitive, more vulnerable to decay, and less stable over time. It can also affect the appearance of your smile, making teeth look longer and uneven. At FORMA Dental Implants & Periodontics, we offer gum grafting procedures to restore gum coverage, improve oral health, and enhance aesthetics. Patients across Oak Brook, Frankfort, and Kankakee trust our specialists for advanced periodontal care that combines health and beauty.
What is gum grafting?
Gum grafting is a surgical procedure that restores lost gum tissue. It involves taking healthy gum tissue from another area of the mouth or using donor tissue to cover exposed roots.
Protects teeth from decay and sensitivity.
Improves gum health by strengthening thin tissue.
Restores balance and aesthetics to the smile.
Prevents further gum recession and bone loss.
By rebuilding lost gum tissue, gum grafting protects teeth while enhancing overall appearance.
Why does gum recession happen?
Patients often ask why their gums recede. Several factors can contribute to the problem:
Gum disease – The most common cause, leading to loss of supporting tissue.
Aggressive brushing – Brushing too hard can wear away gum tissue.
Genetics – Some people naturally have thinner gums more prone to recession.
Tooth misalignment – Improper bite forces can strain the gums.
Clenching and grinding – Excess pressure can contribute to recession.
Tobacco use – Smoking and chewing tobacco increase risk.
Regardless of the cause, gum grafting can repair the damage and prevent it from getting worse.
Why is gum grafting important?
Exposed tooth roots may not seem like a serious issue at first, but they can lead to significant long-term problems. Gum grafting is important because it:
Covers roots to protect against cavities and decay.
Reduces sensitivity to hot, cold, and sweet foods.
Improves smile aesthetics by restoring even gumlines.
Reinforces weak gum tissue to resist further damage.
Reinforces weak gum tissue to resist further damage.
Addressing recession early prevents more serious complications later.
How does the gum grafting procedure work?
At FORMA, we use modern techniques to ensure gum grafting is safe and effective.
Consultation and planning
We assess the extent of recession and discuss treatment goals.
Tissue selection
Healthy tissue may be taken from the roof of the mouth or donor tissue may be used.
Graft placement
The tissue is carefully positioned over the exposed roots and secured.
Healing
Over the next several weeks, the graft integrates with existing gum tissue.
Follow-up care
We monitor healing and provide guidance for long-term success.
What types of gum grafting are available?
Different techniques are used depending on the patient’s needs:
Connective tissue graft
Connective tissue graft – Tissue is taken from beneath the surface of the palate and placed over exposed roots.
Free gingival graft – Tissue from the roof of the mouth is used to thicken thin gums.
Allograft or donor graft – Processed donor tissue is used to avoid harvesting tissue from the patient’s own mouth.
Our specialists choose the technique best suited for each case.
What technology does FORMA use for gum grafting?
Patients in Oak Brook, Frankfort, and Kankakee benefit from advanced tools that improve comfort and healing:
Digital imaging to plan graft placement.
Microsurgical techniques for precision and reduced discomfort.
Growth factors and biologic materials to enhance healing and integration.
This modern approach makes gum grafting more predictable and comfortable than ever before.
What questions do patients often ask about gum grafting?
Does gum grafting hurt?
No. Local anesthesia is used during the procedure, and sedation is available if needed. Patients may feel mild soreness afterward, but it is manageable with medication.
How long does healing take?
Most patients heal within two to three weeks, though complete integration of the graft takes longer.
Will the results look natural?
Yes. The graft blends with existing gum tissue, creating a natural, even gumline.
Can gum recession come back?
If the underlying cause is not addressed, recession can return. Proper home care, regular checkups, and lifestyle changes help prevent recurrence.
What are the benefits of gum grafting?
The advantages of this procedure are both functional and aesthetic:
Health protection – Shields exposed roots from decay and damage.
Reduced sensitivity – Makes eating and drinking more comfortable.
Enhanced appearance – Restores balanced gumlines for a confident smile.
Stronger support – Reinforces thin tissue to prevent further recession.
Long-term stability – Helps preserve natural teeth and bone structure.
Gum grafting provides both immediate and lasting improvements for patients.
Why choose FORMA for gum grafting?
Patients across Illinois choose FORMA Dental Implants & Periodontics because we:
Specialize exclusively in periodontal and implant care.
Use advanced surgical and microsurgical techniques for precision.
Offer multiple grafting options, including donor tissue and biologic materials.
Provide care at three convenient locations — Oak Brook, Frankfort, and Kankakee.
Deliver compassionate, patient-centered treatment with predictable outcomes.
Our expertise ensures patients receive the most effective and comfortable gum grafting experience possible.
Take the next step toward healthier gums
If you have gum recession, gum grafting may be the key to restoring health and confidence in your smile. At FORMA Dental Implants & Periodontics, we proudly serve patients across Oak Brook, Frankfort, and Kankakee, providing advanced grafting procedures that protect teeth and enhance aesthetics.
Call today to schedule your consultation or request an appointment online. Let us help you rebuild your gum health and protect your smile for life.