People often have problems with gum recession, which is when the gum tissue around their teeth wears away or shrinks, revealing the tooth roots. This can cause a lot of problems, like sensitive teeth, pain, and even tooth loss. 

Even though gum loss can not be fixed, gum grafting is a natural way to get healthy gum tissue back and stop problems from getting worse. You might want to talk to an expert about your gum health and treatment options if you are looking for a periodontist in Chicago, IL. 

What is gum recession? 

Gum recession can be caused by a number of things, such as: 

• Brushing too hard or aggressively: Brushing too hard can hurt and upset gum tissue.
• Not taking care of your teeth properly: If you do not brush and floss your teeth enough, plaque can build up and cause gum pain and recession.
• Tobacco use: Both smoking and chewing tobacco greatly raise the chance of getting gum disease and gum loss.
• Changes in hormones: During pregnancy and menopause, gums may be more likely to become inflamed and pull away from the teeth.
• Genetics: Some people have gum tissue that is naturally smaller.

If you see any signs of gum recession, like gum lines that are pulling away from your teeth, exposed tooth roots, or more sensitive teeth, you should see a dentist or periodontist (a gum expert) right away so they can diagnose and treat the problem. 

Gum grafting surgery provides a natural solution to gum recession. 

Gum grafting is a slightly invasive surgery that replaces lost gum tissue with tissue from another part of your mouth or from a donor. This new tissue covers tooth roots that are showing, guards the bone underneath, and makes the gums healthier generally.

Multiple types of gum graft treatments are available, and each has its own benefits:

• Connective tissue graft: With a connective tissue graft, tissue from the roof of your mouth is used to strengthen the gum tissue around your teeth.
• Free gingival lift: A free gingival graft is a treatment that covers visible tooth roots with a thin layer of tissue from the palate. It is similar to a connective tissue graft.
• Pedicle graft: A flap of gum tissue is turned to cover the area where the gums have moved. This is done from a nearby area.

What kind of gum grafts you will need will depend on how bad your gum recession is and where your teeth are that are affected. 

The benefits of gum grafting surgery. 

For people whose gums are thinning, gum grafting has a number of important benefits, including:

• Stops tooth loss: Gum grafts help keep teeth from coming loose and falling out by replacing lost gum tissue and protecting the bone underneath.
• Lowers tooth sensitivity: Tooth roots that are out in the open can be sensitive to sweet, hot, and cold foods and drinks. Covering these roots with gum grafts makes them less sensitive.
• Makes you look better: Gum recession can make your teeth look longer and your smile less beautiful. Gum grafting brings back your natural gum line, which makes your smile look better.
• Helps keep your teeth healthy: Gum tissue that is healthy is an important part of keeping your teeth healthy. Gum grafting helps build a strong base for teeth and gums that are healthy. 

The recovery process. 

It is normal to feel pain and stiffness after gum graft surgery. Your dentist or periodontist will tell you how to take care of your teeth, such as using ice packs, painkillers, gentle brushing, not smoking or using straws, and eating soft foods. It may take longer, but usually, it takes one to two weeks to get better. 

Speak with your dentist. 

For people whose gums are pulling away from their teeth, gum grafting is a safe and effective way to restore healthy gum tissue, stop tooth loss, and improve oral health. If you are considering gum graft surgery, discuss it with your dentist or periodontist to find the best path for you.