Gum Grafting in Portland ME

Have you noticed your teeth starting to look longer than they used to? Or maybe you're feeling more sensitive to cold drinks and brushing? That’s not your imagination—it’s likely gum recession. And when your gums pull away, they expose the delicate root surfaces of your teeth, making them more vulnerable to sensitivity, decay, and even eventual tooth loss.

That’s where gum grafting in Portland ME comes in. It’s a restorative solution we use as periodontists at Portland Center for Dentistry to rebuild what’s been lost and protect what’s still intact. Think of it as re-insulating your home after years of wear—only this time, the home is your smile.

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What Is Gum Grafting in Portland ME?

Gum grafting is a surgical procedure designed to repair receding gums by replacing lost tissue with new, healthy tissue. That tissue may come from the roof of your mouth (called a connective tissue graft) or a donor source, depending on your needs and comfort level.

The graft is placed over the exposed tooth root and stitched into position, allowing it to blend with your existing gums over time. Once healed, the result is a healthier gum line, reduced sensitivity, and stronger protection for the teeth underneath.

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Why Does Gum Recession Happen?

Receding gums can happen gradually, so many people don’t realize it’s occurring until symptoms become obvious. Common causes include:

• Aggressive brushing with a hard-bristled toothbrush
• Gum disease that breaks down tissue and bone
• Grinding or clenching that puts pressure on the gum line
• Genetics (some people are simply more prone)
• Tobacco use or poor oral hygiene habits

Whatever the reason, gum recession doesn’t grow back on its own. But with grafting, we can restore both the form and function of your smile.

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When Should You Consider Gum Grafting in Portland ME?

You might not need gum grafting right away—but there are a few signs that suggest it's time to consider it:

• Teeth that appear longer or uneven
• Visible root surfaces
• Increased sensitivity to heat, cold, or brushing
• Gums that have pulled away from the teeth
• An upcoming restoration (like a crown or veneer) near receded gums
• Concern about the appearance of your smile

Even if you're not in pain, untreated gum recession can progress over time—leading to more serious issues that require complex treatment. Early intervention with gum grafting can prevent that from happening.

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What to Expect During the Procedure

Gum grafting may sound intimidating, but it’s actually a fairly straightforward procedure—and we take every step to make you comfortable.

Here’s how it works:

• We numb the area and prepare the site where the graft is needed.
• A small piece of tissue is taken from the palate (or prepared from a donor source).
• The graft is placed over the exposed root surface and secured in place.
• You’ll leave with instructions for care, healing, and what to expect as the graft integrates.

The healing process typically takes a couple of weeks, and most patients experience minimal discomfort and a fast recovery.

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Benefits of Gum Grafting

The results go far beyond just aesthetics. After healing, you’ll enjoy:

• Improved protection against root decay
• Reduced sensitivity when eating or brushing
• A more even, youthful gumline
• Better long-term support for nearby teeth and restorations
• Increased confidence in the appearance of your smile

And since the graft becomes part of your natural tissue over time, it strengthens your overall oral health in the long run.

Restore, Protect, and Smile With Confidence
Gum recession doesn’t have to be a one-way street. With gum grafting, we can restore lost tissue, protect vulnerable teeth, and help your smile look and feel better than ever.

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Ready to talk about gum grafting?

Let’s schedule a consultation and walk through your options. We’ll help you decide whether grafting is the right step to rebuild your gums—and give your smile the healthy support it deserves.