Gum Graft Surgery Torrance

A Solution for Gum Recession

Blonde woman sitting in dental chair and smiling

Do your teeth look longer than they used to? This could be a sign that you’re experiencing gum recession, which is a condition where the gums pull away from the teeth. Not only can this make your teeth more sensitive, but it can also increase your risk for tooth decay. Luckily, our reliable periodontist Dr. Galvan can help reverse the effects of gum recession with gum graft surgery. If you’re interested in learning more about this procedure, give us a call today.

Why Choose Blue Coast Dental Group for Gum Graft Surgery?

  • Knowledgeable Periodontist with Advanced Training
  • Office That Utilizes the Latest Technology
  • A Dental Team That You Can Trust

What Causes Gum Recession?

Close-up of teeth in lower arch with roots exposed due to gum recession

Gum recession is one of the many consequences of gum disease that isn’t treated in time. The bacteria that cause gum disease can attack the gum and bone tissue around the teeth. When this tissue is lost, the gums will start to shrink, thereby exposing the tooth roots.

Of course, there are other possible causes of gum recession, such as brushing your teeth more aggressively than you need to, using tobacco products of any kind, or unconscious grinding of the teeth. 

How Does Gum Graft Surgery Work?

Illustration of a gum graft surgery in Torrance being performed

The idea behind gum graft surgery is simple: new tissue is transplanted to the areas where the gum tissue was lost. This ensures that the roots of your teeth are once again properly protected.

There are multiple kinds of gum graft surgery that may be performed depending on your needs:

  • Connective Tissue Grafts: The tissue for this type of graft is normally taken from the deep layers in your palate so that it can be attached to the area affected by gum recession.
  • Free Gingival Grafts: This type of graft may be the best option if you have particularly thin gums. The tissue will be taken from the roof of the mouth.
  • Pedicle Grafting: If there’s enough tissue near the area where recession has occurred, we can create a flap in the gums and pull it over in order to cover the tooth.

Aftercare Tips for Gum Graft Surgery

Back of head of woman relaxing on couch

Our team will make sure that you’re prepared for the recovery process following your gum graft surgery by giving you a list of aftercare instructions. Here are a few of the steps you’ll need to follow:

  • Take any prescribed pain medication according to the directions provided.
  • If there’s any swelling, you can keep it down with a cold compress.
  • Plan on only eating soft foods for a while, and stay away from anything that’s particularly spicy.
  • When you lie down to rest or go to sleep, make sure that your head stays elevated.
  • Avoid touching the surgical site.
  • If you notice any unusual symptoms, call our office immediately so that our team can advise you on what to do next.