Gum Grafting in Bakersfield and Valencia, CA
Restoring lost gum tissue to cover exposed roots, protect your teeth, and improve your smile.
Why recession matters
When the gum margin migrates down the tooth, the root is left uncovered. Root surface is not enamel, it is softer, it decays more readily, and it is the usual reason a tooth becomes sensitive to cold. Recession also tends to continue once it has started.
The causes vary: periodontal disease, a thin tissue type that was always going to be vulnerable, heavy brushing with a hard brush, clenching and grinding, and tooth position within the arch.
The procedure
A graft places new tissue over the exposed root and secures it there while it takes on a blood supply. The tissue can be taken from the palate, which uses your own tissue, or from a processed donor source, which avoids a second surgical site. Which is appropriate depends on how much tissue is needed and how thick the surrounding gum is.
It is done under local anesthesia. The graft site is protected during the first weeks, when you eat softly on the other side and leave brushing of the area until told otherwise.
What it achieves
Coverage of the exposed root where the shape of the defect allows it, thicker tissue that resists further recession, less sensitivity, and a gum line that matches its neighbors. The degree of root coverage that is realistic is discussed before surgery rather than after.
Ask about gum grafting at either office.
Your consultation includes a thorough examination, review of the necessary X-rays, and a clear explanation of what we find. We'll walk you through your options, answer your questions, and help you understand what comes next.
- Hours
- Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PMUrgent periodontal problems are triaged by phone during office hours.
- Bakersfield
- (661) 425-05701010 Calloway Drive, Suite 200B
Bakersfield, CA 93312 - Valencia
- (661) 425-056023501 Cinema Drive, Suite 207
Valencia, CA 91355