Soft Tissue Grafting
San Diego, CA
 Soft tissue grafting is a specialized periodontal procedure designed to restore receding gums, protect exposed tooth roots, and improve the overall health and appearance of your smile. Gum recession is a common condition that can lead to tooth sensitivity, increased risk of decay, and even tooth loss if left untreated. At Mission Hills Periodontics, our dental team provides advanced gum grafting procedures to help patients in San Diego, CA strengthen their gum tissue and preserve their long-term oral health.
When gums recede, they expose the tooth roots, which are not protected by enamel. This can cause discomfort and make teeth more vulnerable to damage. Soft tissue grafting rebuilds the lost gum tissue, creating a healthier, more stable foundation around the teeth.
What Is Soft Tissue Grafting?
Soft tissue grafting, also known as gum graft surgery, is a periodontal treatment that adds tissue to areas where the gums have receded. The goal is to cover exposed roots, reduce sensitivity, and prevent further gum recession.
There are several types of gum grafting procedures, and the appropriate option depends on your specific needs:
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Connective Tissue Graft - The most common method, using tissue from beneath the roof of the mouth to cover exposed roots.
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Free Gingival Graft - Involves removing a small piece of tissue directly from the palate to strengthen thin gums.
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Pedicle Graft - Uses nearby gum tissue to cover exposed areas without taking tissue from another site.
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Donor Tissue Graft - Utilizes processed donor tissue when appropriate to avoid a secondary surgical site. |
Our dental team carefully evaluates your gum health, recession severity, and overall oral condition before recommending the most suitable approach.
What Causes Gum Recession?
Gum recession can develop gradually and may go unnoticed until symptoms become more pronounced. Several factors contribute to this condition:
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Periodontal Disease - Bacterial infection damages gum tissue and supporting bone.
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Aggressive Brushing - Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can wear away gum tissue.
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Genetics - Some individuals are naturally predisposed to thinner gum tissue.
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Tobacco Use - Smoking increases the risk of gum damage.
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Teeth Grinding - Excess pressure on teeth can contribute to gum recession.
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Orthodontic Movement - In certain cases, tooth movement may affect gum positioning. |
Addressing the underlying cause is essential for preventing further recession after treatment. At Mission Hills Periodontics, we develop personalized care plans to protect your gums long after your procedure.
Signs You May Need a Gum Graft
Not all gum recession requires surgery, but moderate to severe cases often benefit from soft tissue grafting. You may be a candidate if you experience:
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Tooth Sensitivity - Pain or discomfort when consuming hot, cold, or sweet foods.
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Visible Root Surfaces - Teeth appearing longer due to receding gums.
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Notched Areas Near the Gumline - Grooves or wear on exposed roots.
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Red, Inflamed Gums - Ongoing signs of periodontal disease.
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Progressive Gum Recession - Worsening gum shrinkage over time. |
Early evaluation allows our dental team to intervene before more extensive damage occurs.
The Soft Tissue Grafting Procedure
A gum graft procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia to ensure patient comfort. Depending on the type of graft used, tissue may be taken from the roof of your mouth or another source and carefully placed over the exposed root surface.
The procedure generally involves:
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Administering local anesthesia to numb the treatment area.
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Preparing the exposed root surface and surrounding tissue.
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Harvesting donor tissue or preparing graft material.
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Securing the graft in place with fine sutures.
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Protecting the site to promote healing and integration. |
Over time, the graft integrates with the existing gum tissue, creating a thicker, more resilient gumline. The procedure not only enhances function but also improves the aesthetic balance of your smile.
Recovery After Soft Tissue Grafting
Healing following gum graft surgery typically takes one to two weeks, although full tissue integration may take longer. Patients may experience mild swelling or tenderness, which can be managed with recommended care instructions.
To support optimal healing, patients are advised to:
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Follow Post-Operative Instructions Carefully - Adhere to all guidelines provided by our dental team.
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Avoid Brushing the Surgical Area - Protect the graft during early healing.
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Eat Soft Foods - Minimize irritation at the treatment site.
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Use Prescribed Rinses - Help reduce bacteria and promote healing.
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Attend Follow-Up Visits - Ensure the graft is integrating properly. |
Most patients return to normal activities within a few days, and discomfort gradually subsides as healing progresses.
Benefits of Soft Tissue Grafting
Soft tissue grafting provides both functional and cosmetic benefits. By restoring lost gum tissue, this procedure strengthens your oral foundation and enhances the appearance of your smile.
Key advantages include:
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Protects Tooth Roots - Shields exposed roots from decay and sensitivity.
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Reduces Tooth Sensitivity - Covers areas that react to temperature changes.
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Prevents Further Recession - Reinforces weakened gum tissue.
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Improves Smile Aesthetics - Creates a more even, natural-looking gumline.
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Enhances Long-Term Oral Health - Supports the stability of surrounding teeth and bone. |
By addressing gum recession early, patients can avoid more complex periodontal treatments in the future.
Soft Tissue Grafting and Overall Oral Health
Healthy gums are essential for maintaining strong teeth and supporting bone. When gum tissue recedes, bacteria can accumulate in deeper pockets, increasing the risk of advanced periodontal disease. Gum grafting reduces this risk by creating a more secure seal around the teeth.
Additionally, gum health plays a role in overall health. Periodontal inflammation has been linked to systemic conditions such as heart disease and diabetes. By restoring gum integrity, patients can reduce chronic inflammation and support overall wellness.
At Mission Hills Periodontics, our dental team focuses on comprehensive periodontal care tailored to each patient’s needs in San Diego, CA.
Who Is a Candidate for Soft Tissue Grafting?
Candidates for soft tissue grafting typically include individuals with moderate to severe gum recession, thin gum tissue, or increased tooth sensitivity. Ideal candidates should have controlled periodontal disease and maintain good oral hygiene habits.
A thorough periodontal examination determines candidacy. During your consultation, our dental team will assess:
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Depth of Gum Recession - Extent of root exposure.
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Gum Thickness - Strength and resilience of existing tissue.
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Bone Support - Stability of underlying structures.
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Overall Oral Health - Presence of active infection or other concerns. |
This evaluation ensures that your treatment plan is customized for long-term success.
Long-Term Care After Gum Grafting
After soft tissue graft surgery, ongoing care is essential to preserve your results. Gentle brushing techniques, routine periodontal maintenance, and addressing contributing factors such as teeth grinding or tobacco use can help prevent recurrence.
Regular professional evaluations allow our dental team to monitor healing and ensure that your gums remain healthy and stable. With proper care, the results of gum grafting can last for many years.
FAQs
Is soft tissue grafting painful?
Soft tissue grafting is performed under local anesthesia to ensure comfort during the procedure. Mild soreness or swelling may occur afterward, but most patients find the recovery manageable with proper post-operative care.
How long does a gum graft last?
With good oral hygiene and regular periodontal maintenance, the results of a gum graft can last many years. Addressing the underlying causes of gum recession helps ensure long-term success.
Can gum recession come back after grafting?
While gum grafting significantly reduces the risk of further recession, it is important to maintain proper oral hygiene and follow professional recommendations. Untreated periodontal disease or continued aggressive brushing can contribute to additional gum loss.
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