Gum Graft

Periodontics and Implant Dentistry in St. Louis, MO

Gum recession is a progressive periodontal condition that can lead to pain, sensitivity, or tooth loss if not treated by a periodontist.

At Justin M. Schlaikjer, DDS, MS Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, we can perform a gum graft to restore damaged tissue.

Let our St. Louis, MO, team treat your receding gums to improve your oral health and comfort.

What Is Gum Recession & Who Is At Risk?

Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue pulls away from the tooth. There are several factors that can cause gum tissue to recede or put you at risk of gum recession:

Chewing Tobacco
Aggressive Brushing
Periodontal Disease

Gum recession is gradual, but when it reaches the point where the tooth roots are exposed, gum graft surgery becomes necessary.

Signs of Gum Recession
Pain at the Gum Line
Tooth Root Exposure
Tooth Sensitivity
Uneven Gum Line
Loose Teeth
Bleeding After Brushing

Need To Schedule OR Have A Question?

Call (314) 729-7840 or send a message!

The Top Benefits of Gum Grafting

Protect Your Smile

Gum recession is often a consequence of untreated periodontal disease. Both gum recession and advanced periodontal disease are considered chronic issues, and will cause more widespread dental problems if left untreated. With periodontal treatments such as gum graft surgery, Dr. Schlaikjer can control gum disease, stop gum recession, and prevent the loss of a tooth.

Smile with Confidence

Uneven or damaged gum tissue can affect the balance and symmetry of your smile, making each affected tooth appear longer than it actually is. When performing a gum graft, our periodontist will create a healthier, more even gumline that helps your smile look more balanced and more beautiful, boosting your confidence.

Save Money in the Long Run

Many patients put off soft tissue grafting because they think they don’t need the procedure. But leaving gum recession or gum disease untreated can lead to more extensive issues, including tooth loss and bone loss. These problems may require expensive restorative dentistry work, such as traditional dental implants or All-on-4® dental implants.

Restore Your Comfort

Gum recession can leave the roots of a tooth exposed and prone to sensitivity, which can make eating and drinking painful. A gum graft addresses root exposure, reducing sensitivity and relieving discomfort. Gum graft surgery allows you to comfortably enjoy all your favorite hot and cold drinks and foods again and makes practicing good oral hygiene more comfortable.

Don't Risk Your Oral Health; Call Our St. Louis Practice Today

Gum recession may seem minor, especially if it isn’t causing pain. However, when left untreated, gum issues can lead to further oral health complications, including tooth loss. Dr. Justin Schlaikjer is an experienced periodontist who can effectively resolve your gum issues, including gum disease. We tailor treatment to each individual in a comfortable environment.

If you are experiencing signs of gum recession, gum grafting, and other solutions can help prevent further issues and protect your oral health. Contact us online or call us in St. Louis, MO, to request an appointment today.

Phone Number:

The Three Types of Gum Grafting

The type of gum graft used during your procedure will vary depending on your needs. Your periodontist will recommend which type of gum graft is right for you.

Connective Tissue Graft

During a connective tissue graft, your periodontist will create a flap on the roof of the mouth, then transfer the layer of connective tissue beneath the flap to the treatment area. This is the most common type of gum graft surgery to treat cosmetic problems.

Free Gingival Graft

During a free gingival graft, a periodontist transfers tissue from the roof of the mouth to build up and strengthen the areas where gum recession has occurred. This kind of graft is typically used for people who want to thicken their gums.

Lateral Pedicle Graft

If you have enough healthy gum tissue near the treatment site, your periodontist will partially cut away some gum tissue so one edge remains attached. The healthy gum tissue is then stretched and folded over the treatment site to restore the gumline.

Gum Grafting Recovery

Some minor discomfort is to be expected as you heal, but there are things you can do to control it and make your recovery as smooth as possible:

Eat Soft Foods

It is recommended that you eat a soft diet for the first one to two weeks following your graft procedure. This will minimize irritation of the graft site.

Eat Cold Foods

Cold foods such as ice cream or yogurt may help to ease the discomfort while you heal. They are also soft, which is recommended during the healing period.

Be Careful When You Brush

Your periodontist will discuss how to maintain your oral health while you heal, but it is best to avoid brushing around the graft site. Your periodontist may recommend a mouthwash that can keep the area clean.

Take Medication as Prescribed

Your periodontist may recommend over-the-counter pain medications to ease discomfort and reduce inflammation while you heal. Take them as directed.

Why Visit a Periodontist?

By choosing a periodontist rather than a general dentist, you will receive specialized dental care from a doctor who focuses on periodontal health. Unlike dentists, periodontists focus on the treatment of the gums, which allows them to provide more personalized treatment and deliver outstanding results.

Our dental office in St. Louis, MO, is also equipped with the latest tools, including dental lasers, which are designed to make procedures like soft tissue grafts safe, efficient, and comfortable.

Whether you need a gingivectomy or need to resolve other periodontal issues prior to dental implant placement, our office can meet your needs.

Insurance and Financing For Gum Grafting

Our St. Louis practice accepts most dental insurance providers to help cover the cost of your gum grafting. Coverage varies based on plans and providers. To help those without insurance or to help finance costs not covered by your dental insurance, we accept CareCredit® and Lending Club®. This allows patients to break up the cost of treatment into affordable monthly payments.

What Patients Are Saying!

Periodontics and Implant Dentistry in St. Louis, MO

    
 
 
        
   Elizabeth Tarpley 
 12 September 2026
 
 
  I can’t say enough great things about the staff here. Friendly, kind, compassionate, patient, empathetic and above all - amazing at their jobs. Front desk staff, billing staff, treatment coordinator, assistants and of course Dr. Schlaikjer - thank you so very much for making the extraction, bone graft and implant process the best experience possible for a very anxious person. 🙌🏼👏
  
 
       
   Kelsie Wall 
 2 February 2026
 
 
  If I could leave more than 5 stars I would. Alyssa has been amazing at every appointment. She eases my fears before I can even express them and answers every question I have. I cannot rave enough about my experience. I never dread my appointment, which I cannot say the same about my regular dentist. Thank you so much for your amazing care!
  
 
       
   Maryann 
 8 December 2025
 
 
  Long overdue review of this excellent practice. I have had four separate procedures over the last 18 or so months, All utilizing IV sedation. As a retired nurse I was very concerned that best practices were implemented for patients under conscious sedation. Dr. Schlaikjer has a crash cart with the appropriate reversal agents and code supplies. The monitors in the room were the same I used in the critical care setting. The Dr is ACLS certified and his staff are BLS certified. The staff including the front desk were top notch. The ladies at the desk went above and beyond helping me with my insurance claim. Both my dentist and orthodontist recommended Dr. Schlaikjer and I am so grateful they did.
  
 
       
   Jonathan Baker 
 9 January 2025
 
 
  Dr. Justin Schlaikjer and his team are exceptional—thorough, gentle, and genuinely caring. My gum graft procedure went smoothly with excellent results and minimal downtime. Their kindness and non-judgmental approach make every visit a positive experience. Highly recommend!
  
 
       
   Elaine Siebert 
 30 July 2024
 
 
  Where to start… Office is extremely friendly, super professional, and great with communication. Dr. Schlaikjer is upfront, honest, and a perfectionist there’s no one else I would rather trust with my dental care.
  
 
       
   Hayleigh Locke 
 12 April 2024
 
 
  I’ve had a gum graft, bone graft and implant done by Justin and I am extremely satisfied. It’s been a year since my implant and any dentist or orthodontist that sees my implant compliments it and the healed tissue around it. Very minimal pain from the surgeries but the healing process is kinda long. Overall 10/10 experience and I recommend anyone that needs a graft or implant to go to Justin.
  
 
       
   joseph bova conti 
 2 February 2024
 
 
  Dr. Schlaikjer is amazing! So kind, professional and friendly! My experience with an implant was flawless. From day one I had confidence in Dr. Schlaikjer! Add to that - the staff!!! The staff is awesome, efficient and so accommodating! This has been an incredible experience. I highly recommend Dr. Schlaikjer and his staff!!!
  
 
       
   Charles Clarke 
 26 January 2024
 
 
  I have a been a practicing Dental Specialist for over 30 years in South County. I am only treated by the best people in the field. I was blown away by how easy it was  having implants placed Dr Schlaiker and his trusty Robot. In my case I had implants replacing congenitally missing molars on both sides of my lower jaw. I had seen an implant surgeon previously who thought  it was too close to the nerve to be done (which could have left my lip permanently paralyzed) . After having the 3D CBCT taken and then evaluated by Dr Schlaiker  he assured me that with the use of his Robot technology it was indeed possible. In fact, he could do it all in one appointment  under IV sedation!!! Yesterday morning I had the procedures performed with zero discomfort! I am the typical male and am terrified of medical and dental procedures that I am awake for. I did not remember anything! Last night my wife told me I had her stop at the Steak and Shake for a milkshake after the appointment. I did not even remember that!! I took the pain medicine prescribed last night and nothing this morning. I am sitting here eating ice cream :) Life is good. Thank you to Dr Schlaiker and his amazing office staff (including the robot) for making what could have been a scary appointment….enjoyable!
  
 
       
   Charlie M 
 22 January 2024
 
 
  Wonderful people. Dr S carefully explains every procedure. It's weird, but my two favorite Docs are my periodontist and my urologist. My teeth and gums are in much better shape than when I first came in a few years ago.
  
 
       
   Pourya Maryam Shamsi 
 22 November 2022
 
 
  Dude. I was referred to Dr. Justin for gum grafting. I was like “another waste of money on something hooey”. Boy I was wrong. He did his work which took about 2 months for the whole two part procedure and wow. What a difference. My gums look all shiny and new. As if I never had a recession. Loved it. Now I want to do the rest of my teeth/gum 😂😂. Looks really nice.
  
 
       
   Tim Schoemehl 
 10 September 2022
 
 
  This Dr is amazing. I would recommend him to anyone in need of periodontal work! His staff is also amazing! Thank all of you very much!
  
 
       
   Dragica Junuzovic 
 29 May 2022
 
 
  Thank you dr Schlaikejer for you  profesional work .Everything is so simple with you, except your last name.😉 And,you are sorounding with good tim  of assistence.  I will recomended you to peaple who wants have a beautiful smile😅
  
 
       
   Toni Brinker 
 8 November 2021
 
 
  By far, the BEST experience I’ve ever had at a medical office. The staff/doctor was so accommodating, and made me feel super welcome and comfortable. At one point during my visit I told them I felt like I was at a spa! They treat their patients so well and give you their undivided attention. I was dreading this visit, but it was actually enjoyable! Dr. Schlaikjer was very informative and took his time, he was funny (as well as the staff), and I know I can trust him, which can be hard to find when it comes to healthcare. They truly, truly care about their patients, and I will definitely be back.
  
 
       
   Mike Manion 
 22 October 2021
 
 
  Dr Schlaikjer and his staff are very professional and friendly. If I knew how painless and easy the procedure was, I would have come in sooner.  They are GREAT! Thanks, Patti Manion
  
 
       
   Mirsada Perkanovic 
 9 July 2021
 
 
  Dr Schlaikjer and his team did outstanding job! I was very impressed from start to finish. After I talking to my friends and intervjuing several oral surgeons, I was pleased that I chose Dr Schlaikjer and his team. I could not have made a better choose. I wish, I could give this place more than 5 stars! Can not thank them enough. I had an extractions, 5 implant placed and bone graft done.Everything was amazing. He and his entire team are incredibly kind, helpful and attentive and they make you feel like you are visiting a friend rather than a surgeon. No better place to go for a dental extraction and tooth implants. As good as it gets. I HIGHLY recommend this place to anyone who is need of this type of service. I am very happy with my dental implants and I will be forever grateful!
  
 
       
   Ronald Wunsch 
 9 March 2021
 
 
  I was referred by my dentist who gave Dr S a rave review. After a thorough examination it was determined that my bone had to be built up to, accommodate an implant. It was a difficult task but Dr S handled it with expertise, compassion and an explanation of each and every procedure before he began. After major oral surgery he sent me home with his cell phone number to call if I was in pain.  I have the utmost confidence  in dr S  and encourage anyone needing a Periodontist to go to him.
  
 
       
   Stan Nieweglowski 
 20 May 2020
 
 
  Dr. Schlaikjer is a true professional. This was my first procedure of the sort and he, along with his staff, made it a breeze. I barely felt a thing.
  
 
       
   Courtney EurekaSmile 
 10 December 2019
 
 
  My son was involved in a car accident and had to have gum grafting. Dr Schlaikjer and his team were very informative, professional and went out of  their way to make my son and I feel comfortable and important. They are very personable and easy to talk to. My son has had great results with his procedure and we are so thankful to have found Dr. Schlaikjer!
  
 
       
   Chris Elbring 
 3 December 2019
 
 
  Dr Schlaikjer is very skilled and it is apparent when you are in his care. Always felt comfortable. Gum graft went super well and exceeded expectations. This sort of stuff is never fun, but if I had to get periodontal work again, I know where I would go.
  
 
       
   Raul Alvarez 
 16 July 2019
 
 
  Really enjoyed (who even says that about a dentist) visiting Dr. Schlaikjer's office. Staff is personable and professional... along with Dr. Schlaikjer's care and expertise. Highly recommend.
  
 
       
   Kyle Brown 
 8 March 2019
 
 
  Dr. Schlaikjer and his staff are absolutely incredible!!! There aren't enough fantastic words to describe him and his practice, I highly reccomend them to everyone!
  
 
       
   Patti Redel 
 27 February 2019
 
 
  First time I have gone to Dr. Schlaikjer. I can’t say enough about the professional, caring work he and his staff do. The entire team, from Danyell, to Natasha, Ashley and Dr. Schlaikjer took the time to meet with me, explain everything as they went along and calmed my nerves. I highly recommend his services. Top notch!
  
 
       
   Ben Cohn 
 10 February 2019
 
 
  Very skilled, very meticulous practitioner with a great, reassuring manner.  Helpful, attentive staff.  Good outcomes for all 3 procedures he's done for me.  Highly recommend.
  
 
       
   Gerald Tanner 
 13 December 2018
 
 
  Great dentist and office. Had 2 procedures and both went smoothly.  Very skilled and has very reassuring manner.
  
 
       
   K Smith 
 30 October 2018
 
 
  By far his most difficult patient yet, and yet I'd go back in a heartbeat. Friendly staff across the board. Patient, understanding, sympathetic, etc.
  
 
       
   Dr. Jon Copeland 
 10 April 2017
 
 
  Great periodontist. Easy to get to location.

    
 
 
        
   Elizabeth Tarpley 
 12 September 2026
 
 
  I can’t say enough great things about the staff here. Friendly, kind, compassionate, patient, empathetic and above all - amazing at their jobs. Front desk staff, billing staff, treatment coordinator, assistants and of course Dr. Schlaikjer - thank you so very much for making the extraction, bone graft and implant process the best experience possible for a very anxious person. 🙌🏼👏
  
 
       
   Kelsie Wall 
 2 February 2026
 
 
  If I could leave more than 5 stars I would. Alyssa has been amazing at every appointment. She eases my fears before I can even express them and answers every question I have. I cannot rave enough about my experience. I never dread my appointment, which I cannot say the same about my regular dentist. Thank you so much for your amazing care!
  
 
       
   Maryann 
 8 December 2025
 
 
  Long overdue review of this excellent practice. I have had four separate procedures over the last 18 or so months, All utilizing IV sedation. As a retired nurse I was very concerned that best practices were implemented for patients under conscious sedation. Dr. Schlaikjer has a crash cart with the appropriate reversal agents and code supplies. The monitors in the room were the same I used in the critical care setting. The Dr is ACLS certified and his staff are BLS certified. The staff including the front desk were top notch. The ladies at the desk went above and beyond helping me with my insurance claim. Both my dentist and orthodontist recommended Dr. Schlaikjer and I am so grateful they did.
  
 
       
   Jonathan Baker 
 9 January 2025
 
 
  Dr. Justin Schlaikjer and his team are exceptional—thorough, gentle, and genuinely caring. My gum graft procedure went smoothly with excellent results and minimal downtime. Their kindness and non-judgmental approach make every visit a positive experience. Highly recommend!
  
 
       
   Elaine Siebert 
 30 July 2024
 
 
  Where to start… Office is extremely friendly, super professional, and great with communication. Dr. Schlaikjer is upfront, honest, and a perfectionist there’s no one else I would rather trust with my dental care.
  
 
       
   Hayleigh Locke 
 12 April 2024
 
 
  I’ve had a gum graft, bone graft and implant done by Justin and I am extremely satisfied. It’s been a year since my implant and any dentist or orthodontist that sees my implant compliments it and the healed tissue around it. Very minimal pain from the surgeries but the healing process is kinda long. Overall 10/10 experience and I recommend anyone that needs a graft or implant to go to Justin.
  
 
       
   joseph bova conti 
 2 February 2024
 
 
  Dr. Schlaikjer is amazing! So kind, professional and friendly! My experience with an implant was flawless. From day one I had confidence in Dr. Schlaikjer! Add to that - the staff!!! The staff is awesome, efficient and so accommodating! This has been an incredible experience. I highly recommend Dr. Schlaikjer and his staff!!!
  
 
       
   Charles Clarke 
 26 January 2024
 
 
  I have a been a practicing Dental Specialist for over 30 years in South County. I am only treated by the best people in the field. I was blown away by how easy it was  having implants placed Dr Schlaiker and his trusty Robot. In my case I had implants replacing congenitally missing molars on both sides of my lower jaw. I had seen an implant surgeon previously who thought  it was too close to the nerve to be done (which could have left my lip permanently paralyzed) . After having the 3D CBCT taken and then evaluated by Dr Schlaiker  he assured me that with the use of his Robot technology it was indeed possible. In fact, he could do it all in one appointment  under IV sedation!!! Yesterday morning I had the procedures performed with zero discomfort! I am the typical male and am terrified of medical and dental procedures that I am awake for. I did not remember anything! Last night my wife told me I had her stop at the Steak and Shake for a milkshake after the appointment. I did not even remember that!! I took the pain medicine prescribed last night and nothing this morning. I am sitting here eating ice cream :) Life is good. Thank you to Dr Schlaiker and his amazing office staff (including the robot) for making what could have been a scary appointment….enjoyable!
  
 
       
   Charlie M 
 22 January 2024
 
 
  Wonderful people. Dr S carefully explains every procedure. It's weird, but my two favorite Docs are my periodontist and my urologist. My teeth and gums are in much better shape than when I first came in a few years ago.
  
 
       
   Pourya Maryam Shamsi 
 22 November 2022
 
 
  Dude. I was referred to Dr. Justin for gum grafting. I was like “another waste of money on something hooey”. Boy I was wrong. He did his work which took about 2 months for the whole two part procedure and wow. What a difference. My gums look all shiny and new. As if I never had a recession. Loved it. Now I want to do the rest of my teeth/gum 😂😂. Looks really nice.

Gum Graft

Periodontics and Implant Dentistry in St. Louis, MO

What Is Gum Recession & Who Is At Risk?

Need To Schedule OR Have A Question?

The Top Benefits of Gum Grafting

Protect Your Smile

Smile with Confidence

Save Money in the Long Run

Restore Your Comfort

Don't Risk Your Oral Health; Call Our St. Louis Practice Today

Phone Number:

The Three Types of Gum Grafting

Connective Tissue Graft

Free Gingival Graft

Lateral Pedicle Graft

Gum Grafting Recovery

Eat Soft Foods

Eat Cold Foods

Be Careful When You Brush

Take Medication as Prescribed

Why Visit a Periodontist?

Insurance and Financing For Gum Grafting

What Patients Are Saying!

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