Gum recession is a common problem among adults and affects between 4-12% of both men and women. Gum tissue recedes gradually and is often unnoticeable until it becomes severe. Untreated gum disease can cause damage to the bone underneath, resulting in tooth loss. If too much damage has been done to underlying bone, a dental implant may not be able to be placed. A gum tissue graft, also called a gingival graft, involves taking healthy oral tissue from one area of the mouth, usually the hard palate or roof of the mouth, and transplanting it to the desired area. However, some oral surgeons prefer to use donor tissue instead of grafting from the roof of the mouth. Gingival grafts may be done in conjunction with a bone graft or dental implant procedure, since gum disease often creates a need for multiple surgical procedures to repair the bone and gum tissue.