446+ Happy patients
hero spark 02
hero spark 01

Gum Grafting in Minot, ND

Restore Receding Gums for Health and Beauty

Gum recession exposes sensitive roots and creates an aged appearance. Gum grafting rebuilds lost tissue using advanced microsurgical techniques for natural-looking results. Your restored gum line protects tooth roots and enhances your smile aesthetics.
  • Cover exposed roots to eliminate sensitivity and discomfort completely
  • Prevent further recession and root decay for long-term dental health
  • Restore youthful gum line appearance for a more vibrant smile
  • Protect your teeth from eventual loss and maintain health
  • Natural-looking results that last and enhance your overall appearance
image
image 1
image 2
image 3
image 4
446+

4.8

Rating on Google

Patient Stories

Real patients, life-changing results

These authentic stories from your neighbors in Minot reveal the profound impact of personalized dental care. You’ll discover how the right treatment approach can restore not just your smile, but your confidence to fully embrace life again.

Patricia Wood

Finally Free From Pain With a Complete Smile Transformation.

Barbara Gale

Tears of Joy Seeing My New Smile in the Mirror.

Julie Marshall

No Longer Anxiety-Ridden Thanks to All-On-4 Dental Implants.
Be our Next Success Story!
Take This 60-Sec Quiz to See If Dental Implants are Right for You!
Check My Eligibility
Watch More Stories

Your Gum Coverage Solution

What Is Gum Grafting?

Receding gums expose sensitive tooth roots, causing pain and increasing decay risk. This recession makes teeth appear longer and ages your smile significantly. Gum grafting covers exposed roots with healthy tissue, protecting teeth and restoring youthful appearance.
Gum grafting is a surgical procedure that transplants healthy gum tissue to areas where recession has occurred. The grafted tissue may come from your palate, adjacent gums, or processed donor tissue. This new tissue covers exposed roots, increases attached gum width, and prevents further recession from occurring.


Patients with gum recession from aggressive brushing, periodontal disease, or genetic factors benefit from grafting procedures. The treatment eliminates root sensitivity while improving smile aesthetics and protecting against root decay. Minot Dental Partners in Minot, ND uses minimally invasive techniques that promote comfortable healing and natural-looking results. Successful grafts last indefinitely with proper oral hygiene and regular maintenance.
  • Covers sensitive exposed roots
  • Prevents continued recession progression
  • Improves smile aesthetics significantly

Be our Next Success Story!

Request an appointment with one of our doctors and start your smile journey today.

500+

Smiles Restored

20+

Services Offered

98%

Satisfaction Rate

4.8

Average Rating

350

Implants Placed

2700+

Lives Changed Last Year

500+

Smiles Restored

20+

Services Offered

98%

Satisfaction Rate

4.8

Average Rating

350

Implants Placed

2700+

Lives Changed Last Year

500+

Smiles Restored

20+

Services Offered

98%

Satisfaction Rate

4.8

Average Rating

350

Implants Placed

2700+

Lives Changed Last Year

500+

Smiles Restored

20+

Services Offered

98%

Satisfaction Rate

4.8

Average Rating

350

Implants Placed

2700+

Lives Changed Last Year

500+

Smiles Restored

20+

Services Offered

98%

Satisfaction Rate

4.8

Average Rating

350

Implants Placed

2700+

Lives Changed Last Year

500+

Smiles Restored

20+

Services Offered

98%

Satisfaction Rate

4.8

Average Rating

350

Implants Placed

2700+

Lives Changed Last Year

500+

Smiles Restored

20+

Services Offered

98%

Satisfaction Rate

4.8

Average Rating

350

Implants Placed

2700+

Lives Changed Last Year

Restore Receded Gums

Restore Receded Gums

Gum grafting uses tissue to cover exposed tooth roots and rebuild receded gums. It protects sensitive roots, prevents further recession, and improves your smile appearance when gums have pulled away from teeth. You’ll eliminate root sensitivity and create healthier, more attractive gum tissue that better protects your teeth.
image 74

Eliminates Root Sensitivity

Grafting covers exposed roots that cause sharp pain when you drink cold water or eat hot foods. The new tissue layer insulates sensitive areas, letting you enjoy temperature extremes without discomfort or hesitation.

Prevents Further Recession

Thin, fragile gums continue receding and exposing more root surface over time. Grafting adds thick, durable tissue that resists recession, protecting your teeth from future gum loss that could threaten tooth stability.

Reduces Root Decay

Risk Root surfaces lack protective enamel and decay easily when exposed to bacteria. Grafting covers these vulnerable areas, reducing your cavity risk and protecting you from root decay that’s difficult to treat effectively.

Improves Smile Aesthetics

Recession makes teeth appear unnaturally long and creates black triangles between teeth. Grafted tissue restores natural gum contours, giving you a more attractive smile with properly proportioned teeth you’re proud to show.

Protects Bone Structure

Receded gums often indicate underlying bone loss. Grafting stabilizes the area and can help preserve remaining bone, maintaining the foundation that keeps your teeth firmly anchored in your jaw.

Long-Lasting Results

Successful gum grafts become permanent tissue that functions like your original gums. You receive a one-time solution that lasts decades with proper care, avoiding repeated treatments to address ongoing recession problems.

Be our Next Success Story!

Experience personalized dental care designed to help you achieve your dream smile.

Covering Exposed Tooth Roots

Who Is Gum Grafting For?

Receding gums expose tooth roots, causing sensitivity, increasing cavity risk, and creating an aged appearance. Gum grafting uses tissue from your palate or donor material to cover exposed roots, protect teeth, and restore a healthier gum line.

Significant Gum Recession

Your gums have pulled back substantially, exposing tooth roots that cause pain, sensitivity, or aesthetic concerns you want to address.

Preventing Further Damage

Without treatment, recession often continues, eventually threatening tooth stability, so grafting stops progression and protects your teeth long-term.

Improving Smile Aesthetics

Uneven gum lines or visible roots make your teeth look long and aged, affecting your confidence and how you present yourself.
image 75

Do Any of These Situations Sound Familiar to You?

These common problems indicate that gum grafting could restore both comfort and confidence in your smile.

  • Roots Are Exposed and Sensitive: Cold drinks, hot foods, or even breathing in cold air causes sharp pain in teeth where gums have receded and roots are visible.

  • Teeth Look Too Long: Gum recession has made your teeth appear elongated and aged, changing your smile's appearance in ways that bother you.

  • One Tooth Looks Different: A single tooth has severe recession compared to its neighbors, creating an uneven gum line that draws attention when you smile.

  • Brushing Too Hard Caused Damage: Years of aggressive brushing wore away your gums, and now you want to repair the damage and learn gentler techniques.

  • Recession Is Getting Worse: You've noticed your gums continuing to pull back over time, and you want to stop the progression before more tooth structure is exposed.

  • Worried About Tooth Stability: Your dentist explained that continued recession threatens the bone and tissue supporting your teeth, and grafting can help prevent tooth loss.

Be our Next Success Story!

Experience personalized dental care designed to help you achieve your dream smile.

Before & After Transformations

Real Transformations, Lasting Results

These before-and-after images showcase dental implants, complete smile makeovers, and cosmetic treatments performed right here in Minot. You can see how personalized treatment plans restore both function and confidence for patients who trusted us with their care.

Before

After

Before

After

Before

After

Before

After

Be our Next Success Story!

Request an appointment with one of our doctors and start your smile journey today.

advanced technology

Precision Technology for Superior Results

Experience faster, more comfortable treatment with our cutting-edge digital dental technology systems.
Precision Technology for Superior Results 1
Precision Technology for Superior Results 2

Your comfort and treatment precision improve dramatically with our advanced dental technology suite. Digital imaging and Cone Beam CT scanning provide detailed views for accurate diagnosis, while our high-power microscopes ensure microscopic precision during procedures. Experience the benefit from digital impressions that eliminate messy traditional molds, and our in-house lab capabilities mean faster turnaround times for your restorations.

  • Digital precision technology for accurate treatment planning
  • Same-day procedures with advanced in-house lab capabilities
  • Microscopic precision using high-power surgical microscopes
Learn More
Call Us now

Gum Tissue Restoration Process

The Gum Grafting Surgical Procedure

Gum grafting covers exposed tooth roots by transplanting tissue to areas where your gums have receded. We perform gum grafts at Minot Dental Partners to protect sensitive roots, prevent further recession, and improve the appearance of your gum line.
1

Recipient Site Preparation

We numb both the area receiving the graft and the area where we’ll take donor tissue to ensure your complete comfort throughout the procedure. After cleaning the exposed root surfaces, we prepare the recipient site by creating small pockets or flaps in your existing gum tissue. This preparation allows us to position the graft precisely where it’s needed most.
2

Tissue Harvesting and Placement

We carefully remove a thin layer of tissue from the roof of your mouth or use processed donor tissue from a tissue bank, depending on which option is best for your situation. We position this graft over the exposed roots and secure it with tiny sutures, ensuring good contact between the graft and the existing tissue. The graft acts as a scaffold that your body will integrate with your natural gum tissue over time.
3

Healing and Tissue Integration

Your grafted tissue will gradually blend with your existing gums over the next few weeks to months as blood vessels grow into the graft. We protect the donor site (if we used your own tissue) with a protective covering that dissolves on its own as healing progresses. Follow-up visits allow us to monitor your healing, remove sutures when appropriate, and ensure the graft is successfully covering the exposed roots.

Be our Next Success Story!

Experience personalized dental care designed to help you achieve your dream smile.

Dental Financing Options

Flexible Payment Plans for Every Budget

You shouldn’t delay necessary dental care because of financial concerns, which is why multiple financing options are available to fit your situation. Your treatment can begin immediately while you manage payments comfortably over time with approved credit options.

Get Pre-qualified Today and Start Your Transformation

Frequently Asked Questions

Gum Grafting FAQs

Gum grafting covers exposed tooth roots and rebuilds receded gum tissue. These questions explain when grafting is necessary, what the procedure involves, and how healthy gums protect your teeth at Minot Dental Partners.

What is gum grafting?

Gum grafting is a surgical procedure that covers exposed tooth roots by transplanting tissue to areas where gums have receded. When gum tissue pulls away from teeth, it exposes sensitive root surfaces, creates esthetic concerns, and increases risk for root decay and further recession. During grafting, Dr. Rustemier takes tissue from your palate or uses processed donor tissue, then carefully positions it over exposed roots and secures it with sutures. As healing occurs over several weeks, the grafted tissue integrates with your existing gums, creating healthy, protective coverage. Gum grafting at Minot Dental Partners stops recession progression, reduces sensitivity, improves appearance, and protects tooth structure from damage and decay.
Several conditions necessitate gum grafting. Gum recession from aggressive brushing, periodontal disease, or genetics exposes tooth roots, causing sensitivity and esthetic concerns. Thin gum tissue provides inadequate protection and is prone to further recession. Exposed roots are vulnerable to decay since root surfaces lack protective enamel. Recession around dental implants can compromise their long-term success. Some patients have naturally high muscle attachments pulling on gums, requiring grafting before orthodontics. Gum grafting before placing veneers or crowns creates adequate tissue for optimal esthetic results. Dr. Rustemier evaluates your specific situation and recommends grafting when it will improve your oral health, comfort, or smile appearance at Minot Dental Partners.
Graft tissue comes from several sources, each with advantages. Autogenous grafts use your own tissue, typically harvested from the roof of your mouth. Your own tissue integrates predictably and has excellent success rates, though it requires a second surgical site. Allograft tissue comes from processed, sterilized donor tissue from tissue banks. This eliminates the palate harvest site, reducing discomfort, though healing may take slightly longer. Xenografts use tissue from animal sources, typically porcine or bovine. Alloplastic materials are synthetic substitutes. Dr. Rustemier selects the most appropriate option based on your graft size, location, and preferences. All materials used at Minot Dental Partners are thoroughly tested, proven safe, and effective for gum grafting.
Gum grafting begins with numbing the area using local anesthesia so you don’t feel pain. If tissue is harvested from your palate, that area is also numbed. Dr. Rustemier carefully prepares the recipient site where recession has occurred. He positions the graft tissue over exposed roots and secures it with sutures. If tissue was harvested from your palate, a protective bandage may cover that site. The entire procedure typically takes 60 to 90 minutes depending on how many teeth are being grafted. Minot Dental Partners offers IV sedation administered by a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist if you prefer to remain deeply relaxed throughout surgery. Most patients find the procedure much easier than anticipated.
You won’t feel pain during gum grafting because we thoroughly numb the area. After surgery, expect some discomfort for several days to a week, typically more at the harvest site if your palate was used. Most patients describe discomfort as manageable with prescribed pain medication. Your grafted area will be tender, and you’ll need to eat soft foods and avoid the surgical site while healing. If donor tissue was used instead of palate harvest, recovery is generally easier. Swelling and soreness peak around day two or three, then steadily improve. Most patients return to normal activities within a week. The temporary discomfort is worthwhile for achieving covered roots, reduced sensitivity, and improved appearance lasting many years.
Initial healing takes about two weeks, during which you’ll need to eat soft foods and avoid the surgical site. Sutures are typically removed or dissolve within two weeks. However, complete tissue integration and maturation take three to six months. During this time, the graft gradually blends with your existing gums and develops its final appearance. You’ll notice significant improvement within the first month. Dr. Rustemier will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor healing at Minot Dental Partners. Most restrictions ease after two weeks, though you should continue gentle care around the grafted area for several weeks. Long-term success requires good oral hygiene and avoiding factors that caused original recession, such as aggressive brushing.
Gum grafting has excellent success rates, typically 85 to 95 percent when performed by experienced periodontists and patients follow post-operative instructions carefully. Success means the graft survives, integrates with existing tissue, covers exposed roots, and remains stable long-term. Factors affecting success include your overall health, whether you smoke (which dramatically reduces success), oral hygiene, graft technique used, and tissue source. Dr. Rustemier’s specialized training and experience in periodontal surgery at Minot Dental Partners maximize your chances of successful grafting. Following all pre-operative and post-operative instructions, maintaining gentle oral hygiene, and avoiding tobacco significantly improve outcomes. Most patients achieve beautiful, lasting results protecting their teeth for many years.
Stick to soft, cool foods for the first week after gum grafting. Good options include yogurt, smoothies, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, soup (not too hot), pasta, oatmeal, and protein shakes. Avoid crunchy, hard, spicy, or acidic foods that could irritate the surgical site. Don’t eat chips, nuts, raw vegetables, citrus fruits, or anything requiring vigorous chewing. Gradually reintroduce firmer textures as healing progresses and comfort allows, typically after two weeks. Chew on the opposite side of your mouth from the graft. Stay well-hydrated but avoid drinking through straws, which create suction that could disturb healing. Proper nutrition during recovery supports healing, so eat nutrient-rich soft foods even if variety is limited temporarily.
Post-operative care is crucial for graft success. Don’t brush or floss the surgical area for two weeks; Dr. Rustemier will provide specific cleaning instructions. Rinse gently with prescribed antimicrobial mouthwash or warm salt water after meals. Don’t pull your lip to look at the graft, as this disturbs healing. Take prescribed antibiotics and pain medication as directed. Apply ice packs to your face for 15 minutes on, 15 minutes off during the first day to minimize swelling. Sleep with your head elevated. Don’t smoke or use tobacco, which causes graft failure. Avoid strenuous exercise for a week. After initial healing, resume gentle brushing and gradually return to normal oral hygiene around the grafted area.
Gum grafting costs vary based on how many teeth need grafting, the size of each graft, tissue source used, and procedure complexity. Grafting multiple teeth costs more than a single tooth. Using donor tissue instead of palate harvest may affect pricing. While gum grafting represents a significant investment, it protects your teeth, improves comfort, and enhances appearance for many years. Some dental insurance plans provide partial coverage when grafting is medically necessary to prevent further recession or decay, though coverage for purely cosmetic grafting is limited. Minot Dental Partners will verify your specific benefits and provide detailed cost estimates before treatment. We work with financing companies including CareCredit, Sunbit, and Lending Club to make grafting affordable through manageable monthly payments.

Still Have Questions?

Can't find what you're looking for? Give us a call - we'd love to chat and help you out personally.

Meet the Doctors

Highly Trained Providers Dedicated to You

Receive care from providers who combine advanced training with a genuine commitment to your comfort and results. Your treatment is guided by doctors who understand that exceptional dentistry requires both technical precision and personal attention.
dr perkins e1755498592116

Dr. Kyle Perkins

DDS
Trusted partner for complete smile transformations, from dental implants to wisdom teeth removal. With extensive training in full-mouth reconstruction and IV sedation, patients experience comfortable, comprehensive care that transforms dental health in fewer visits.
ADA
AGD
More About Dr. Perkins
dr eric e1755498613507

Dr. Eric Rustemier

DDS

Experts in implant dentistry and oral surgery, bringing four years of focused implant experience to Minot. Graduating with honors and receiving national recognition for clinical excellence, you benefit from advanced techniques that restore your smile with precision.

More About Dr. Rustemier

Be our Next Success Story!

Experience personalized dental care designed to help you achieve your dream smile.
Profile Image 1
Profile Image 2
Profile Image 3
Profile Image 4
Profile Image 5
Profile Image 6
Profile Image 7
Profile Image 8
Profile Image 9
Profile Image 10
Profile Image 11
Profile Image 12
Profile Image 13
Profile Image 14
Profile Image 15
Profile Image 16
Profile Image 17
Profile Image 18
Profile Image 1
Profile Image 2
Profile Image 3
Profile Image 4
Profile Image 5
Profile Image 6
Profile Image 7
Profile Image 8
Profile Image 9
Profile Image 10
Profile Image 11
Profile Image 12
Profile Image 13
Profile Image 14
Profile Image 15
Profile Image 16
Profile Image 17
Profile Image 18
Profile Image 1
Profile Image 2
Profile Image 3
Profile Image 4
Profile Image 5
Profile Image 6
Profile Image 7
Profile Image 8
Profile Image 9
Profile Image 10
Profile Image 11
Profile Image 12
Profile Image 13
Profile Image 14
Profile Image 15
Profile Image 16
Profile Image 17
Profile Image 18
Profile Image 1
Profile Image 2
Profile Image 3
Profile Image 4
Profile Image 5
Profile Image 6
Profile Image 7
Profile Image 8
Profile Image 9
Profile Image 10
Profile Image 11
Profile Image 12
Profile Image 13
Profile Image 14
Profile Image 15
Profile Image 16
Profile Image 17
Profile Image 18

Join Our Membership Club!

Minot Dental Partners Membership Club

Everyone deserves great dental care, regardless of their insurance. That’s why we created the Membership Club. Our exclusive savings plan designed to help you and your family maintain outstanding oral health with ease and affordability.

Adult Benefit Plan

15 And Up

$

399

/yr

Annual Fee

🎉 Save at least $300 a year!

  • 2 Hygiene Visits
  • 1 X-Ray Series for Cavities
  • 2 Dental Exams
  • 2 Fluoride Varnish Treatments
  • Oral Cancer Screening
  • 10% Off All Other Treatments
  • $100 Discount on a Night Guard

Children's Benefit Plan

14 and Under

$

329

/yr

Annual Fee

🎉 Save at least $450 a year!

  • 2 Hygiene Visits
  • 1 X-Ray Series for Cavities
  • 2 Dental Exams
  • 2 Fluoride Varnish Treatments
  • Oral Hygiene Instructions
  • 10% Off All Other Treatments
  • 4 Sealants for Cavity Prevention

Periodontal Benefit Plan

Patients Diagnosed with Periodontal Disease

$

699

/yr

Annual Fee

🎉 Save at least $300 a year!

  • 3-4 Perio Maintenance Hygiene Visits
  • 2 Dental Exams
  • 1 X-Ray Series for Cavities
  • 2 Fluoride Varnish Treatments
  • Oral Cancer Screening
  • 10% Off All Other Treatment
  • Sonicare Toothbrush or WaterPik Water Flosser

* As determined by your dentist.

Adult D1110, D0120, D0274, D0140, D0220; Perio D4910, D0120, D0274, D0140, D0220; Child D1120, D0120, D0272, D1208, D0140, D0220

Join Our Membership Club!

Sign up for the Minot Dental Partners Membership Club today and start saving on the quality dental care you deserve.
Request An Appointment
Call us now

Patients Testimonials

Trusted by Your Minot Neighbors

Your neighbors in Minot consistently share how our comprehensive care has transformed both their smiles and their confidence. These authentic reviews reflect the personalized attention and exceptional results you can expect from our team.

LeRoy Bettenhausen

4 days ago
Great personal care.

Roxanne Sprague

4 weeks ago
Always receive great care! Staff is very friendly!

Darryl Fox

4 weeks ago
always a good visit great staff

Shanda Walsh

1 month ago
Amazing service. Very compassionate.

Luther Olson

1 month ago
I am so thankful for Minot Dental Partners. They squeezed me in very fast when I had a crown that fell off. It was a quick, painless experience today. Awesome job! Thank you.

tiffany anderson

1 month ago
I truly appreciate a down to earth company that is knowledgeable and cares for their patients.

Your Transformation Story Could Be Next

Discover how our innovative dental solutions have transformed lives through the heartfelt testimonials of our satisfied patients.

Dental Blog

Expert Insights, Confident Smiles

Our blog provides expert insights on dental implants, periodontal care, and advanced oral health treatments. You’ll discover valuable information on topics like All-on-4 procedures, bone grafting, wisdom teeth removal, and sedation dentistry options.
dental coverage for military families
General Dentistry

Dental Coverage Gaps Among Military Families & Retirees — U.S. vs North Dakota vs Minot

Learn how dental coverage for military families works, including TRICARE, enrollment, benefit limits, and dental care options in Minot, ND….
  • September 7, 2026
  • 12 min read
gum grafting for receding gums
General Dentistry

Gum Grafting vs Watching and Waiting: When Recession Actually Needs Surgery

Learn when gum grafting for receding gums may be needed, when monitoring is enough, and which signs suggest it is…
  • September 5, 2026
  • 17 min read
cracked tooth emergency Minot ND
General Dentistry

Cracked a Molar in Minot: What’s Same-Day Urgent vs What Can Wait Until Monday

Learn when a cracked tooth emergency in Minot, ND, needs same-day care, which warning signs matter, and what treatment may…
  • September 4, 2026
  • 15 min read
See all posts

Our Location

Conveniently Located in Minot's Arrowhead Shopping Center

You’ll find our modern practice easily accessible at Arrowhead Shopping Center, serving Minot and surrounding Ward County communities with comprehensive dental care. Your visit combines the convenience of a central location with advanced dental services all under one roof.

Get Directions
Call us now
Conveniently Located in Minots Arrowhead Mall 1
Conveniently Located in Minots Arrowhead Mall 2

Rebuild Receding Gum Tissue

Protect Exposed Roots and Restore Your Gumline

Gum grafting covers exposed tooth roots caused by recession, reducing sensitivity and preventing further damage. You’ll protect your teeth and improve your smile’s appearance.
  • Eliminate tooth sensitivity from recession
  • Prevent further gum and bone loss
  • Create a more even, attractive gumline
Restore Your Gums with a Grafting Procedure.

Call Us Now

Contact us today and experience the difference of personalized, compassionate dental care.

  • New Patients
  • Current Patients
  • Get Directions
  • Opening Hours Icon
    MON - THU
    9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
  • Opening Hours Icon
    FRI
    9:00 AM - 2:00 PM

    • Search Our Website

    Search for services, dental procedures, and expert tips from our patient resources.

    Popular searches: Dental Implants, Cleanings, Insurance.

    minot logo
    Request an Appointment

    Can Dental Implants Work For You?

    Take This 60-Sec Quiz to See If Dental Implants are Right for You!

    [DEMO] Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet

    [DEMO] Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet

    Discover the Best Option to Get a Beautiful White Smile

    Fill out This Short Assessment to Discover the Best Option to Get a Beautiful White Smile Along with a Free Consultation!

    Discover Your Orthodontic Options to See Which Is the Best for You

    Fill out This Short Smile Assessment to Discover Which Teeth Straightening Option Is Best for You and Get a Custom Consultation.

    Request an Appointment

    Our dedicated team is here to provide you with personalized attention and exceptional care, tailored to meet your unique dental needs.