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Treating Gum Recession with a Gingival Graft: A Canine Case Study

  • 6 hours ago
  • 3 min read

Gum recession can be easy to overlook at first — until a tooth starts to look longer than its neighbors, feels more sensitive, or shows exposed root surface near the gumline. When recession affects a prominent tooth, it becomes both a comfort issue and a cosmetic one.

This case study from SOL Dental Arts in Maspeth, Queens looks at a gingival graft used to treat recession around a canine tooth — soft-tissue treatment designed to improve root protection, reduce sensitivity, and restore a healthier-looking gumline.

What is a gingival graft?

A gingival graft is a periodontal (gum) treatment that restores soft tissue where the gumline has receded. When the gum pulls back and exposes the root surface of a tooth, a graft adds healthy tissue to cover and protect that area. It is both a functional and a cosmetic treatment: it helps shield the exposed root and supports long-term gum health, while also improving the balance and appearance of the gumline.

The case: recession on a canine tooth

This patient had gum recession around a canine tooth. Canines are prominent in the smile, so recession there is especially noticeable — and exposed root surface can also bring sensitivity and longer-term concerns for the health of the tooth.

A grafting procedure was recommended to strengthen the area, improve tissue coverage, and create a more stable, natural-looking gum contour. Addressing recession at this stage helps protect the tooth before the problem progresses further.

How gingival graft treatment works

A soft-tissue grafting case at SOL Dental Arts follows a careful sequence:

  • Evaluation of the canine recession — assessing how much root is exposed and the condition of the surrounding tissue.

  • Periodontal soft-tissue grafting procedure — placing healthy tissue to cover and reinforce the recession area.

  • Root coverage and gumline contour improvement — restoring a more protected, even gumline.

  • Follow-up healing assessment — monitoring how the tissue heals and integrates.

The aim is a result that protects the tooth and looks natural — improving both the health and the appearance of the area.

Why treat gum recession early?

Recession tends not to reverse on its own, and exposed root surface can increase sensitivity, become more vulnerable over time, and create visible asymmetry in the smile. Treating recession earlier — while the affected area is still limited — supports long-term periodontal health and makes for a more straightforward, more predictable result. A periodontal evaluation is the best way to know whether grafting is appropriate for your situation.

The result

By restoring soft tissue around the canine, this case was designed to improve root coverage and create a healthier, more balanced gumline. A well-planned gingival graft should:

  • Improve coverage of the exposed root

  • Support long-term periodontal protection

  • Enhance the symmetry of the gumline

  • Help reduce root sensitivity

Frequently asked questions

Why is gum recession on a canine important to treat?

Canine teeth are prominent in the smile, so recession there is highly visible. Exposed root surface can also affect comfort and the long-term health of the tooth — which is why treating it matters both functionally and cosmetically.

Is a gingival graft only a cosmetic treatment?

No. While a graft does improve the appearance of the gumline, it also helps protect the exposed root and supports long-term gum and tooth health.

Can grafting improve smile symmetry?

Yes. Better, more even gum coverage can improve the balance of the gumline, which contributes to a more harmonious overall smile.

Does recession come back after treatment?

A graft is designed to create a more stable, protected gumline. Good day-to-day care and regular checkups help protect the result — we will review simple steps to support long-term gum health.

Noticing gum recession or sensitivity?

If a tooth is looking longer, feeling more sensitive, or showing exposed root near the gumline, an evaluation is a smart next step. Book a consultation with SOL Dental Arts in Maspeth, Queens — call (917) 983-4560 — and we will assess your gum health and walk you through the options.

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