What is a free gingival graft?

A free gingival graft is probably the most common grafting procedure performed by a Periodontist. The procedure involves borrowing a piece of thicker gum tissue from a donor site in the mouth and placing it on a tooth that has thin or receding gums. The gum tissue very often is obtained from the roof of the mouth, but sometimes can be obtained from the outside of other teeth with excess gum tissue and more recently can be purchased commercially (Alloderm®). The procedure is used to create a better quality and thickness of gums around a tooth that is at high risk of developing gum recession or where gum recession is likely to progress due to very thin fragile gums. It is also commonly needed before teeth are moved orthodontically to strengthen the gums and reduce the chance of gum recession during the tooth movement.

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