Tissue Grafting Torrance

Restore a Healthy Gumline

Happy young woman pointing at her smile

Gum recession is a common oral health concern. Most people experience it to a mild degree as the years pass, but in some cases, it can become quite severe. It can cause your teeth to appear unusually long, and you may experience increased dental sensitivity. What can you do about gum recession? The lost tissue will not regrow on its own. Fortunately, though, our Torrance dental team may be able to help via a surgical procedure known as tissue grafting. Contact us today to learn more about it or to request an appointment.

What Is Tissue Grafting?

Illustration of gum graft being placed on exposed tooth root

“Tissue grafting” is a general term that can apply to quite a few different procedures. In our practice, we offer gum grafting.

During the procedure, we add soft tissue to the areas along your gumline where you have lost a significant amount of tissue. This helps to cover your exposed tooth roots and create a more even, aesthetically pleasing gumline. The results are very natural-looking and can provide you with a healthier, more confident smile.

How Does Tissue Grafting Work?

Oral surgery team carefully working on patient

Here is an overview of how the gum grafting process works:

  • Making you comfortable: We do not want you to feel pain during your procedure, so we will administer local anesthesia. We may also provide sedation.
  • Preparing the site of the graft: We will make a small incision in your gums to create a flap. Then, we will clean the exposed tooth root.
  • Harvesting the graft: The tissue used in this procedure is usually harvested from a patient’s own body. This minimizes the risk of rejection and other complications. We will likely take a small piece of soft tissue from your palate (the roof of your mouth).
  • Placing the graft: We will carefully place the harvested tissue where you have lost some of your gums and secure it in place with sutures.

The Benefits of Tissue Grafting

Smiling senior couple enjoying time on the beach

Gum grafting offers some pretty outstanding benefits:

  • Gum grafting protects exposed tooth roots, thereby reducing sensitivity to hot and cold foods.
  • It helps prevent further gum recession and supports long-term oral health.
  • Gum grafting improves the appearance of your smile by creating a more even gumline.
  • The procedure can decrease the risk of root decay and other dental complications.
  • Gum grafting provides natural-looking results that blend with your existing tissue.
  • It enhances your confidence by restoring a healthy, attractive smile.
  • Gum grafting uses your own tissue, which minimizes the risk of graft rejection.
  • You may find it easier to maintain excellent oral hygiene after you heal.

Aftercare for Tissue Grafting

Oral hygiene instruments on bathroom counter

Initial healing from a gum graft usually takes 7 – 10 days, though full recovery may stretch over several weeks. Here are some steps you can take to support your body’s healing process:

  • Eat a soft, mild diet.
  • Be very gentle during oral hygiene (do not touch the surgical site until our team gives you clearance).
  • Get enough rest.
  • Avoid smoking and other habits that could interfere with healing.
  • Take any medications as recommended by our team.
  • Contact us right away if you have questions or concerns.