How long is recovery after a gum graft?

Most patients are back to their normal routine in 48 to 72 hours. The full aesthetic result takes 6 to 12 weeks.

Is a gum graft painful?

The procedure is done with local anesthesia and is usually well tolerated. You may have soreness or swelling for a few days; the intensity and recovery vary by case.

Aggressive brushing, periodontitis, thin gum tissue, crowding, or orthodontics. We treat the cause along with the recession, or it comes back.

Gum Grafting for Receding Gums in Costa Rica

Gum graft for recession, exposed roots, and gummy smile.

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Editorial illustration: gum graft covering a root exposed by gum recession

Key facts

Duration: 60–90 minutes
Sessions: 1 session + 2 checkups
Anesthesia: Local
Recovery: 48–72 hours; final appearance in 6–12 weeks
Estimated cost: Quoted at your consultation, based on diagnosis
How long it lasts: Stable long-term if the cause is corrected
Donor site: Palate or dermal matrix
Final aesthetics: 6 to 12 weeks

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Why you are here

The gum is the frame of your smile. When it recedes, the root shows, the tooth looks longer, and sensitivity appears. We correct recession with connective tissue grafts, treat gummy smiles, and reshape the gumline with microsurgery: very fine sutures, magnification, and a recovery designed to be discreet.

And most importantly: your own tooth stays. Receding gums don't need a crown or a veneer; they need gum treatment.

Gum recession with an exposed root or sensitivity
Gummy smile: too much gum showing when you smile
Asymmetries in the gumline after orthodontics
Aesthetic prep before crowns or veneers

Editorial illustration: a tooth with exposed roots from gum recession

Dr. Sergio Ortiz treating a patient and explaining the treatment during a consultation

We explain every step before we start: what we will do, how long it takes, and what you will feel.

How the process works

Step 01 of 03

Diagnosis under the microscope

Standardized clinical photography, periodontal probing, and biotype analysis. You'll leave with a written plan.

Illustration of gum recession with an exposed root and a probe.

Your treatment includes

Gum graft (connective tissue) for recession
Esthetic crown lengthening
Gum recontouring
Gummy smile treatment

Still not sure? Write to us and we will tell you if this is the right treatment for you.

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Frequently asked questions

Yes. A connective tissue graft covers the exposed root and restores gum thickness in most cases of recession, as long as the bone between the teeth is intact.