Gum Grafting at Regen Perio
Gum grafting is a procedure that rebuilds gum tissue lost to recession, covering exposed tooth roots and protecting them from further damage. At Regenerative Periodontics & Implants, Dr. Nathan Estrin, DMD, MS performs gum grafting using a sutureless, PRF-based technique that reduces tissue trauma, discomfort, and recovery time compared to traditional suture-based grafting, serving patients throughout Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch, and the surrounding area.
What Is Gum Recession?
Gum recession occurs when gum tissue pulls back from a tooth, exposing the root underneath. Common signs include:
- Teeth that appear longer than they used to
- Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
- A visible notch or indentation near the gumline
- Exposed, yellowish root surface
Left untreated, recession tends to worsen over time and increases the risk of root decay and further bone loss.
Traditional Grafting vs. Sutureless PRF Grafting
Gum grafting isn't one-size-fits-all. Traditional grafting has long been the standard for treating gum recession, but it typically requires a second surgical site, multiple sutures, and a longer recovery. Dr. Estrin's sutureless, PRF-based approach achieves the same result with less trauma, giving patients in Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch a more advanced option close to home. The comparison below breaks down exactly how the two techniques differ.
Traditional
Tissue Source:
Donor tissue taken from the palate
Sutures Required:
Multiple sutures at both graft and donor sites
Typical Recovery:
1-2 weeks
Discomfort Level:
Moderate to high
Follow-up Visits:
Multiple
Sutureless
Tissue Source:
Graft stabilized with PRF, a biologic from the patient's blood
Sutures Required:
None or minimal
Typical Recovery:
A few days
Discomfort Level:
Low
Follow-up Visits:
Fewer
What to Expect: The Sutureless Grafting Process
- 1. Evaluation — Dr. Estrin measures the extent of recession and identifies the best graft approach
- 2. PRF preparation — a small blood draw is processed chairside into a PRF membrane, same day
- 3. Graft placement — the graft is placed and stabilized using PRF, without traditional sutures in most cases
- 4. Healing — PRF accelerates soft-tissue integration and reduces swelling
- 5. Follow-up — fewer visits are typically needed compared to traditional grafting
Am I a Candidate for Gum Grafting?
- Visible gum recession or root exposure
- Tooth sensitivity at the gumline
- Thin gum tissue prone to further recession
- A previous graft that didn't fully take
- Cosmetic concerns about a "long tooth" appearance
Recovery & Results
Most patients return to normal activity within a few days. Because the sutureless, PRF-based approach avoids a second surgical site on the palate, discomfort is typically limited to mild tenderness rather than the more significant soreness associated with traditional donor-site healing
Cost & Financing
The cost of gum grafting depends on the number of teeth involved and the extent of recession. Flexible financing is available through CareCredit and many dental insurance plans provide partial coverage. Our team will review your benefits before treatment
begins.
Frequently Asked Questions
Gum recession is most often caused by gum disease, aggressive brushing, thin gum tissue, or teeth grinding.
Why Bradenton, FL Trusts Our Surgeon
"Dr. Estrin takes the time to make people feel comfortable, explains things clearly, and truly cares about achieving the best possible outcome for every patient."
- Real Patient Review
Ready to Talk About Sutureless Gum Grafting?
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Nathan Estrin, DMD, MS, board-certified periodontist, serving Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch, and the surrounding area.
Reviewed by Dr. Nathan Estrin, DMD, MS Board-Certified Periodontist, Stony Brook University-trained implant & regenerative specialist, adjunct faculty at LECOM School of Dental Medicine and the University of Iowa. | Last updated: September 2026