Emery Village Dental
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Gum Contouring vs. Gum Grafting: What’s the Difference?

March 23, 2025
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At Emery Village Dental, we're thrilled to bring our patients comprehensive services; gum surgeries are no exception. Dr. Youngwoo Joo has the extensive skills and training to provide specialized services like gum contouring and grafting surgeries. 

Today, we'll explain the details of gum surgeries so you know what to expect when needed. Remember, if you need gum surgery, we can complete the procedure from start to finish here in our North York dental clinic.

What's the Difference Between Gum Grafting and Gum Contouring?

Gum Grafting

Gum grafting is recommended to restore lost gum tissue when roots become exposed or gum recession is excessive. Gum loss and root exposure can result from advanced gum disease (periodontitis), poor oral hygiene, clenching and grinding (bruxism), or sometimes vigorous tooth brushing, which can cause gum recession. 

During a gum grafting procedure, Dr. Joo removes tissue from other areas of your mouth to replace the lost gum tissue. This surgery is recommended to help prevent the tooth loss that can occur with gum recession. It takes a few weeks to heal from gum grafting. 

You might receive some coverage from your dental insurance for gum grafting, as it's typically considered a necessary procedure for preventing tooth loss. 

Gum Contouring

Gum contouring is an elective cosmetic procedure that eliminates excessive gum tissue covering your teeth. When excess gum tissue covers your teeth, they may appear shorter or stubby and diminish the appearance of your smile. Removing the extra gum tissue improves and enhances your smile. 

Gum contouring is performed with a dental laser. The laser sterilizes the treatment area and accelerates the healing process, which typically takes a few days. 

Because this procedure is typically considered elective, dental insurance may not cover it.  

Who Is a Candidate for Gum Surgery in North York?

To learn more about gum surgery and how it may benefit you, contact Emery Village Dental at (437) 900-8266 and schedule an evaluation with Dr. Joo.

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