Without the right amount of gum tissue, you are at a higher risk for lost teeth, tooth decay and potentially serious problems for your general health. Along with Pinhole® gum treatment, one way that our dentists can help you resolve the problem is with soft tissue grafting in Tysons Corner, Virginia. Call Avanti Dentistry at (703) 952-0663 if you would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Farshad Farhoumand and associates.
Soft tissue grafting, or gum grafting, is often recommended to treat gum recession or improve the appearance of an uneven gumline. Your gums may recede due to several different factors, such as the presence of periodontal disease, overaggressive brushing, poor oral hygiene or the use of tobacco products. We strongly recommend that you seek treatment if your gums have receded, as gum recession can lead to tooth loss and other oral health problems if left untreated. Our dentists will carefully examine your mouth to determine the extent of the problem and whether soft tissue grafting is the right option for you.
When you receive a soft tissue graft, our dentists will take tissue from another area of your mouth and stitch it onto areas of the gums where gum tissue has receded. This tissue will then grow together with the existing tissue in the treated area to improve the health and appearance of your gums. In some cases, our dentists may also use tissue-stimulating proteins to encourage your body’s natural healing abilities and promote faster healing and a quicker recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions About Soft Tissue Grafting
What is soft tissue grafting, and why might I need it?
Soft tissue grafting restores lost gum tissue by taking a small piece of gum (or using donor tissue) and placing it over areas with gum recession. This procedure prevents root exposure, improves smile aesthetics, and often reduces sensitivity. Patients in McLean and Falls Church commonly seek this after noticing recession near front teeth, while those in Arlington and Fairfax may choose grafting as a preventative or cosmetic boost to preserve gum health and support dental implants.
Is the grafting procedure painful?
Most patients report minimal discomfort both during and after soft tissue grafting. Local anesthesia is used during the procedure to keep the area numb—whether you’re treated in Vienna or Annandale—and post-op soreness is usually mild and manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers. A small percentage of Great Falls or Dunn Loring patients may experience sensitivity at the donor site, but this typically fades within a few days. Adhering to your dentist’s aftercare advice—like using ice packs and a soft diet—helps ensure a smooth recovery.
What should I eat after a soft tissue graft?
A soft food diet is essential in the first few days following surgery. In Fairfax or Arlington, patients are often advised to enjoy smoothies, mashed veggies, yogurt, or oatmeal for about a week. Steer clear of crunchy, spicy, or acidic foods that could irritate the treated area. By day 7 to 10, most folks—including those in McLean and Vienna—can begin to reintroduce tender solids like scrambled eggs or soft pasta, as long as they follow their dentist’s cues.
How long does it take to heal and see results?
Healing timelines vary, but most Falls Church to Dunn Loring patients see healthy tissue integration within 2 to 4 weeks. Gum tissue fully matures and looks its best around 3 to 6 months after grafting. Follow-up visits—often scheduled at 1, 2, and 4 weeks—help your dentist track progress and monitor healing. In Annandale and Great Falls, scheduling the final follow-up at 6 months is common to confirm full integration and long-term stability.
Can I brush and floss after a graft?
Yes—but gently. For the first week post-op, patients in Vienna and Fairfax should avoid brushing the graft area directly. Instead, gently clean neighboring teeth and rinse with a soft saltwater solution or guided mouthwash your dentist approves. After about 7 to 10 days, once sutures are removed, you can carefully return to your normal oral hygiene routine with a soft-bristled brush. Depending on your provider’s guidance, flossing around the graft is usually safe after a few weeks.
What are the risks, and how do I ensure a successful outcome?
Soft tissue grafting is safe and predictable, but minor issues like suture irritation or graft shifting can occur. Patients in McLean, Falls Church, and Arlington can minimize risk by not disturbing the site—no touching with your tongue, smoking, or vigorous rinsing. Follow a soft diet, attend all follow-up visits, and promptly report any unusual pain or swelling. With proper care, success rates are high and long-lasting.
Contact our office to schedule a consultation with our dentists and find out how you can benefit from soft tissue grafting.
