When a patient exhibits gum recession or deficient gum thickness a soft tissue graft is performed. An appropriate sized piece of tissue is harvested from the palate and transplanted to the recipient site above the tooth that has been prepared to receive the graft.

Free gingival graft

This procedure is performed around a tooth that exhibits gum recession and that has very little keratinised or crusty gum. The keratinised tissue is harvested from the palate and sutured around the recipient site that has been prepared to receive the graft. The palate is also sutured to minimise post-operative discomfort and the patient is advised to avoid citrus fruits, carbonated drinks, spicy foods and crusty bread for one to two weeks following surgery. This procedure is most commonly provided for lower incisors and not only achieves root coverage but can deepen the pouch or vestibule adjacent to the tooth. This facilitates better oral hygiene around the tooth or teeth treated.