Gum Grafting in Midtown Manhattan, NYC - New York Periodontist Dr. Scott Froum
What Is Gum Grafting?
Gingival grafting is a periodontal treatment used to rebuild gum tissue that has worn away or pulled back from the teeth. When gums recede, they can leave part of the tooth or an exposed tooth root unprotected. This procedure helps restore support around the teeth, protect oral health, and reduce discomfort.
A gingival graft works by adding healthy tissue to areas affected by recession, helping to strengthen the gum line and protect the underlying tooth structure. The goal is not only to improve how the gums look, but also to protect the teeth and bone underneath.
Gum Recession: A Reason to Seek Gum Grafting
What Is Gum Recession?
Gum recession happens when the gums slowly pull away from the teeth, a condition also referred to as gingival recession. This can make teeth look longer and may cause sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods. In more advanced cases, the exposed root can be at higher risk for decay or damage.
Receding gums often develop gradually, so many people do not notice the problem until symptoms appear.
Why Does Gum Recession Occur?
There are several reasons gums may begin to thin or recede, including:
Gum disease or periodontal disease
Long-term inflammation around the teeth
Aggressive brushing your teeth or poor brushing habits
Naturally thinning gums
Misaligned teeth or bite problems
Previous dental treatment
Genetics
If left untreated, gum recession can lead to bone loss, ongoing discomfort, and even tooth loss over time.
Example of gum recession
After gum grafting surgery with Dr. Scott Froum
Why Treatment May Be Needed
When gum tissue pulls back, it can no longer protect the tooth and bone properly. Treatment may be recommended as part of broader procedures for receding gums to:
Help cover the exposed root
Reduce sensitivity and discomfort
Reduces the risk of decay on the root surface
Prevent further gum and bone damage
Support long-term gum health
Stabilize teeth affected by periodontal disease
Early treatment can help prevent more serious problems in the future.
Approaches to Gum Grafting Used at Dr. Scott Froum’s
There are several ways to treat gum recession, and the most appropriate approach depends on your individual needs, the amount of existing gum tissue, and overall oral health. At Dr. Scott Froum’s practice, regenerative and minimally invasive techniques are used whenever possible, with traditional types of gum grafting reserved for select cases.
Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF)
PRF uses growth factors derived from your own blood to support healing and soft tissue regeneration. In appropriate cases, PRF may be used to help improve gum thickness and support natural tissue repair without the need for grafting from the palate.
Minimally Invasive Techniques
The Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique is a minimally invasive method that repositions gum tissue through an opening, without cutting or stitching. It can be effective for cases of gum recession and avoids the need to harvest tissue from the roof of the mouth.
Donor Tissue Grafts
In some situations, donor tissue may be used instead of a patient’s own tissue. These grafts, which may include allograft or xenograft tissue, are obtained from carefully processed sources and can reduce healing time while avoiding a second surgical site in the mouth.
Connective Tissue and Free Gingival Grafts
Traditional grafting techniques involve taking tissue from the roof of the mouth to cover exposed tooth roots or strengthen thin gums. These methods are well established and are often used to improve gum thickness, stability, and long-term protection around the teeth.
Leading With Regenerative and Minimally Invasive Treatment
At Dr. Scott Froum’s periodontist practice in NYC, treatment is planned conservatively, with an emphasis on preserving natural tissue whenever possible. Whenever appropriate, minimally invasive options are considered first, with traditional grafting reserved as a last resort. The specific approach is always chosen based on what is most appropriate for the patient and the long-term health of the gums.
Benefits of Gum Grafting
A successful gum graft procedure can support long-term oral stability and gum restoration, providing benefits such as:
Protection for exposed tooth roots
Reduced gum sensitivity to temperature and touch
Slowing or stopping further gum recession
Lower risk of decay and infection
Improved comfort when eating and brushing
Healthier, more balanced gum appearance
Before and After Gum Grafting
What to Expect During the Procedure
The gum grafting procedure is usually performed under local anesthetic to keep you comfortable. Some patients may also choose sedation. This gum graft surgery is completed in a single visit, and you can return home the same day.
During the procedure, tissue is carefully placed over the affected area and secured so it can heal properly. Most patients describe the experience as manageable and well tolerated.
Gum Graft Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery varies, but most people return to normal daily activities within a few days. Healing of the grafted area takes longer and continues over several weeks.
During recovery, you may be advised to:
Eat soft food
Avoid brushing the treated area at first
Follow specific oral care instructions
Attend follow-up visits to check healing
Mild swelling or soreness is normal and improves steadily as the area heals.
How Much Does Gum Grafting Cost
In many cases, treatment may be partially covered by dental insurance when it is medically necessary, such as when related to gum disease or risk of tooth loss. Coverage varies by plan, and the office team can help review your benefits.
Specialist Gum Care in Midtown Manhattan
Dr. Scott Froum is a board-certified periodontist in NYC, specializing in the treatment of gum recession, periodontal disease, and advanced soft tissue care. His work focuses on conservative, evidence-based periodontist surgery designed to protect natural teeth and restore long-term oral health.
His Midtown Manhattan practice serves patients throughout New York City, including those seeking second opinions for complex gum conditions or considering options such as a gum transplant.
If you’ve been told you have receding gums, an exposed root, or signs of periodontal disease, a specialist evaluation can help determine the best approach.
You may wish to:
Schedule a consultation
Seek a second opinion
Discuss treatment options tailored to your needs
Frequently Asked Questions About Gum Grafting
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Receding gums cannot grow back on their own, but treatment can help protect the teeth and restore lost support. Procedures such as gum grafting can cover exposed roots, reduce sensitivity, and help prevent further recession.
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It is rarely “too late,” but earlier treatment usually leads to better outcomes. A specialist evaluation is needed to determine whether there is enough healthy gum tissue and bone to support treatment.
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Many patients experience a noticeable reduction in sensitivity after treatment because exposed tooth roots are covered and protected. While results vary, sensitivity often improves as the area heals.
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The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so discomfort during treatment is minimal. Some soreness during recovery is normal, but it is usually manageable and improves steadily over time.
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While some general dentists have training in gum grafting, gum graft procedures are typically best performed by periodontists, specialists in gum and bone surgery.
Contact Us
Ready to restore your gum health and protect your smile?
Contact our Midtown Manhattan office today to schedule your appointment with Dr. Scott Froum, a leading periodontist in NYC.