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Gum recession can expose tooth roots, cause sensitivity, and increase the risk of decay and bone loss if left untreated. At Yaletown Dental Boutique, we offer advanced gum grafting in Yaletown to restore healthy gum tissue and protect your smile.
Our downtown Vancouver clinic provides clinically proven gingival (soft tissue) graft procedures designed to treat gum recession with precision and comfort.
If you are noticing receding gums or increased tooth sensitivity, early treatment can prevent further damage and more complex dental care later. A professionally planned gum graft can help stabilize your gumline and support long-term oral health.
Gum recession occurs when gum tissue pulls back and exposes the tooth root, often leading to sensitivity and discomfort near the gumline.
Common causes include aggressive brushing, plaque or tartar buildup, periodontal disease, gum trauma, tooth misalignment, tobacco use, and genetic predisposition to thin gum tissue.
Early warning signs include sensitivity to hot, cold, sweets, brushing, flossing, or dental cleanings, as well as teeth appearing longer or feeling loose over time. When left untreated, gum recession can progress to bone loss, tooth mobility, and even tooth loss.
Early diagnosis allows for simpler, more predictable treatment and helps prevent long-term damage. If you notice signs of gum recession, prompt evaluation is key to protecting your oral health and preserving your natural teeth.
A gum graft, also known as a gingival (soft tissue) graft, is a periodontal surgical procedure used to treat gum recession. The procedure involves placing healthy gum tissue over areas where the gumline has receded, covering exposed tooth roots and reinforcing thin or weakened tissue. Gum grafting is performed to protect teeth from further damage, improve long-term oral health, and restore a balanced, natural-looking gumline.
Once placed, the graft relies on the surrounding gum tissue to establish a new blood supply. This blood flow is essential for healing and allows the graft to stabilize in its new position.
Over time, the tissue matures and fully integrates with the existing gums, creating a strong, healthy attachment that functions and appears like natural gum tissue.
Gum grafting provides both functional and aesthetic benefits. By covering exposed roots, the procedure protects teeth from decay, erosion, and further recession while significantly reducing tooth sensitivity. In addition, gum grafting improves the appearance of the gumline by restoring symmetry and natural contours, helping patients achieve a healthier and more confident smile.
Gum grafting is recommended for patients whose gum recession affects tooth health, comfort, or appearance and who can heal predictably after treatment. Candidacy is determined through a professional dental evaluation that considers both oral and overall health.
Ideal candidates typically have receded gums with root exposure, thin or fragile gum tissue, or symptoms such as tooth sensitivity or cosmetic concerns from an uneven gumline.
Patients with moderate to severe recession related to past periodontal disease may also benefit once the disease is properly treated and under control through periodontal services in Yaletown.
In some cases, grafting is not immediately necessary. Mild, stable recession without discomfort or progression may be monitored with preventive care.
Overall health factors, such as smoking, certain medical conditions, or medications, are also reviewed, as they can affect healing and treatment outcomes.

At Yaletown Dental Boutique, we offer advanced gum grafting techniques to treat gum recession, thin or fragile tissue, and exposed tooth roots. Here are the gum grafting options we offer to meet your specific needs.
Connective Tissue Graft
Free Gingival Graft
Pedicle Graft
Allograft
A connective tissue graft is the most commonly performed and widely recommended type of gum graft, particularly for root coverage and cosmetic improvement.
This technique involves gently lifting a small flap on the roof of the mouth and removing connective tissue from beneath the surface. The tissue is then placed over exposed tooth roots and carefully sutured into position. Connective tissue grafts are highly effective at reducing tooth sensitivity, protecting roots from decay, and restoring a smooth, natural gumline that blends seamlessly with surrounding tissue.


Your treatment begins with a thorough periodontal evaluation to assess gum health, measure recession, and determine pocket depths. Advanced diagnostic and imaging tools, including digital scanners, caries detection technology, transillumination devices, and cone beam CT imaging when needed, support accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
Based on these findings, we will recommend monitoring or proceed with gum grafting and select the most appropriate technique for your case.
Local anesthesia is used to numb the treatment area and ensure a pain-free experience. For patients with dental anxiety or those undergoing multiple grafts, oral sedation is also available to help you relax during the procedure. Once you are comfortable, the area is gently prepared and exposed tooth roots are cleaned.
The selected graft, either your own tissue or a donor material, is then carefully positioned over the recessed area and secured in place.
After placement, the gum tissue is repositioned and sutured to stabilize the graft. A protective periodontal dressing may be applied to support early healing. Sutures may dissolve on their own or be removed during a follow-up visit, depending on the technique used.
Follow-up visits allow us to monitor healing, evaluate graft integration, and provide ongoing guidance. These appointments help ensure the graft heals properly and delivers long-term gum stability and protection.

Mild bleeding, swelling, and discomfort are normal during the first few days. Rest, avoid strenuous activity, and take prescribed medications as directed. Eat soft, cool foods and use an antibacterial mouthwash. Do not brush or floss directly on the graft.
Bleeding typically stops within 24 to 48 hours, while swelling may last several days. Bruising can occur but should improve during the week. Soft foods such as eggs, pasta, fish, and cooked vegetables can be added. Gently brush near the area, but avoid the graft site.
Swelling and bruising continue to fade, and comfort improves. Gradually return to a normal diet, avoiding hard or spicy foods until cleared. Once approved, normal brushing and flossing can resume as the graft integrates and healing progresses.
Following proper aftercare instructions is essential to protect your gum graft and support predictable healing. Careful hygiene, diet, and medication use during recovery help ensure the long-term success of your treatment.

Treatment under the Canadian Dental Care Plan is not fully covered. A co-payment will apply.

The cost of gum grafting in Yaletown depends on factors such as the number of areas treated, the type of graft used, and whether patient or donor tissue is required. More complex cases may involve higher costs. A personalized treatment plan and clear estimate are provided during your appointment.
Gum grafting is often covered in part by dental insurance. We accept most plans, including Pacific Blue Cross, Sun Life, Manulife, Green Shield, Canada Life, ClaimSecure, GroupSource, Empire Life, and RBC Insurance, as well as CDCP with a patient co-pay. We offer direct billing for plans that allow it and assist with claims when direct billing is not available.

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle, circular motions to avoid damaging the gumline. Avoid aggressive brushing, and follow any tool recommendations from your dental team for sensitive areas.
Clenching or grinding can contribute to gum recession over time. A custom night guard helps reduce excess pressure on the teeth and gums, protecting the results of your treatment.
Routine dental hygiene and exams help prevent gum disease and allow early detection of any changes to your gum health. Ongoing professional care supports long-term success.
Avoid tobacco use, manage stress, and follow personalized oral care guidance. Healthy daily habits play an important role in preserving your gum graft and preventing future recession.


Gum graft procedures are performed by licensed dental professionals with advanced periodontal training, ensuring every treatment is delivered with safety, precision, and long-term gum health in mind.
We use proven periodontal techniques and modern clinical protocols to ensure predictable healing and stable results. Our approach prioritizes prevention, minimally invasive care, and treatments backed by current dental research.
Conveniently located in the heart of Yaletown, our boutique clinic offers flexible scheduling to fit your lifestyle. Easy access and flexible hours make it simple to receive specialized gum graft care without disrupting your routine.
Concerned about receding gums or tooth sensitivity? At Yaletown Dental Boutique, we provide advanced gum grafting and gum recession treatment in a comfortable, boutique-style setting.
Our team combines modern periodontal techniques with personalized care to restore gum health and protect your smile long term.
Conveniently located in Yaletown, we welcome patients from Downtown Vancouver, False Creek, and surrounding areas. From your initial appointment to post-treatment care, we guide you through every step with clarity and confidence.
Book your gum graft appointment and take the first step toward healthier, stronger gums with expert care in Yaletown.
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so you should not feel pain during treatment. Some soreness or discomfort afterward is normal and typically managed with prescribed medication.
Gum grafting has a high success rate when properly planned and cared for. Following post-operative instructions and maintaining good oral hygiene are key to long-term success.
Yes. Once healed, the graft blends with your natural gum tissue, restoring a balanced and natural-looking gumline.
While a graft can stabilize the gumline, recession can recur if contributing factors are not managed. Proper brushing techniques, regular dental visits, and night guards for grinding help prevent recurrence.
Covering exposed roots often significantly reduces or eliminates sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods.
Treatment under the Canadian Dental Care Plan is not fully covered. A co-payment will apply.
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