Restoring and Protecting Gum Health Around Teeth and Implants

Strengthening the Gums That Support Your Smile

Gum grafting is a specialised dental procedure used to rebuild areas of gum tissue that have receded or thinned over time. Healthy gum tissue plays a vital role in protecting the roots of teeth and dental implants, supporting comfort, and helping maintain long-term oral health.
At Lithgow Dental, gum grafting procedures are performed with precision and care by Dr Bhaskar Natarajan, using modern surgical techniques designed to encourage predictable healing and stable, natural-looking results.

When Is Gum Grafting Recommended?

Gum recession can occur gradually and often without noticeable symptoms in the early stages. When left untreated, it may lead to increased sensitivity, difficulty cleaning, or greater risk to the underlying tooth or implant.

Gum grafting may be recommended if:

  • Gum tissue has receded, exposing tooth roots
  • Gums are thin or fragile around teeth or implants
  • Sensitivity has developed due to root exposure
  • Gum support is needed prior to implant placement
  • Soft tissue loss has occurred due to gum disease, trauma, or previous dental treatment


A detailed assessment allows us to determine whether gum grafting is the most appropriate option for your situation.

Experienced Surgical Care Led by Advanced Training

Gum grafting requires a detailed understanding of soft tissue biology, blood supply, and healing dynamics. At Lithgow Dental, this level of care is led by Dr Bhaskar Natarajan, who brings over 20 years of clinical experience and extensive postgraduate training in surgical and implant dentistry.

Dr Bhaskar’s qualifications include:

  • Postgraduate Diploma in Dental Implants (Charles Sturt University – Distinction)
  • Graduate Diploma in Sedation and Pain Control (University of Sydney)
  • Structured training in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
  • Master’s in Soft Tissue Surgery (University of Bologna, Italy – ongoing)


This advanced background ensures gum grafting procedures are carried out with precision, care, and a strong focus on long-term stability.

However, some people may benefit from more frequent visits — for example, those with a history of gum disease, a high risk of decay, or specific medical conditions. At your appointment, we’ll recommend a schedule that’s right for you.

What Does Gum Grafting Involve?

Gum grafting involves carefully placing additional tissue to strengthen areas where the gums are thin or receded. The goal is to improve coverage, protect the underlying structures, and support ongoing oral health.

Depending on your needs, grafting may be performed to:

  • Increase gum thickness around teeth or implants
  • Protect exposed tooth roots
  • Improve comfort and ease of cleaning
  • Support implant longevity


Each treatment plan is customised, and the technique used is selected based on the location and extent of the recession.

Supporting Implant and Natural Tooth Health

Healthy gum tissue forms a protective barrier around both natural teeth and dental implants. Gum grafting can help reduce the risk of further recession, inflammation, and long-term complications.

By improving soft tissue support, gum grafting contributes to:

  • Greater comfort during daily activities
  • Easier long-term maintenance
  • Reduced sensitivity
  • Improved stability around implants

Comfort-Focused Care and Sedation Options

We understand that surgical dental treatment can feel overwhelming for some patients. At Lithgow Dental, sedation options may be available for eligible patients to support a calm and comfortable experience.

Dr Bhaskar’s formal training in sedation dentistry allows procedures to be carried out with patient safety and comfort as top priorities.

Healing and Recovery

Gum grafting is generally well tolerated, with most patients returning to normal activities shortly after treatment. Healing occurs gradually, and detailed aftercare instructions are provided to support recovery.

Follow-up visits allow us to monitor healing and ensure the grafted tissue remains healthy and stable.

Why Choose Lithgow Dental for Gum Grafting?

  • Over 35 years of trusted care in the Lithgow community
  • Advanced training in soft tissue and implant surgery
  • Procedures performed on-site by an experienced clinician
  • Sedation options for anxious or complex cases
  • Clear communication and personalised treatment planning
  • Focus on long-term gum and implant health

Is Gum Grafting Right for You?

If you’ve noticed gum recession, increased sensitivity, or have concerns about the health of your gums around teeth or implants, a consultation at Lithgow Dental can help determine the most appropriate next steps.

Our approach is calm, thorough, and centred on long-term oral health.

Is gum grafting painful?
Most patients experience minimal discomfort, which is usually well managed with standard pain relief. Sedation options may also be available.
Initial healing typically occurs within one to two weeks, with ongoing tissue maturation over time.
Gum grafting can help protect vulnerable areas and reduce the risk of further recession when combined with good oral care.
No. Early intervention can be beneficial even in mild to moderate cases.
Yes. Gum grafting can help improve soft tissue support around implants.
Yes. Sedation may be offered following assessment.

Frequently Asked Questions