Gum Grafting in Newport Beach, CA

Gum grafting may be recommended to treat gum recession caused by gum disease, overbrushing, or thin gum tissue. Receding gums can leave tooth roots exposed, increase sensitivity, and lead to further bone loss if not addressed.

At Life Oral Health Periodontics and Implant Surgery, we use soft tissue grafting to rebuild the gum line, reduce discomfort, and protect the long-term health of your teeth and implants. Every procedure is carefully planned and supported by biologic healing to encourage a smooth recovery and stable results.

What Is Gum Grafting?

Gum grafting (also called soft tissue grafting or perioplastic surgery) involves adding healthy gum tissue to areas where your gums have receded. This new tissue helps restore a natural-looking gum line and acts as a protective barrier around your teeth, bone, and dental implants.

Gum grafting may be recommended to:

• Cover exposed tooth roots
• Reduce tooth sensitivity
• Prevent further gum and bone loss
• Improve the appearance of your smile
• Support the long-term health of teeth and implants

What Causes Gum Recession?

Gum recession can happen slowly over time or appear suddenly, depending on the cause. It is often the result of a combination of factors:

• Gum disease (Periodontal disease): Chronic gum infection causes the supporting tissues and bone to break down, leading to recession and eventually tooth loss if left untreated.
• Aggressive brushing: Using a hard-bristled toothbrush or brushing too forcefully can wear away the gum tissue at the base of your teeth.
• Tooth position or bite misalignment: When teeth are not aligned properly, excess pressure or trauma can damage the gum tissue.
• Thin gum tissue (skeletal biotype): Some people naturally have delicate or minimal gum coverage, which is more prone to recession.
• Orthodontic treatment: Moving teeth through the bone with braces or aligners may contribute to gum changes, especially in thin biotypes.
• Grinding or clenching: Chronic clenching or grinding (bruxism) increases pressure on the teeth and surrounding structures, which can lead to recession over time.
• Poor oral hygiene: Without regular cleanings and proper home care, bacteria can accumulate at the gumline and cause inflammation and tissue loss.

No matter the cause, addressing recession early can help preserve your natural teeth and prevent the need for more extensive treatment later.

Are You a Candidate for Soft Tissue Grafting?

Your dentist may recommend soft tissue grafting if you have gum recession that exposes the roots of your teeth or puts your oral health at risk. This procedure is often appropriate when:

• Your teeth look longer than they used to
• You experience sensitivity to hot, cold, sweet, or sour foods
• Your gumline has visibly receded or appears uneven
• You are preparing for restorative or orthodontic procedures

At Life Oral Health Periodontics and Implant Surgery, we begin with a thorough evaluation to determine whether gum grafting is right for you. Dr. Deborah K Ruprecht will assess your gum and bone health, review your medical history, and explain all treatment options. 

In some cases, conservative changes to your home care routine may be enough to protect your gums without surgery. If grafting is needed, we will guide you through the process step by step.

How Gum Grafting Works

We personalize each grafting procedure to your specific needs. Depending on the location and severity of recession, we may use:

• Autogenous tissue: A small sample of your own tissue, usually taken from the roof of your mouth
• Allograft material: A donor tissue option that eliminates the need for a second surgical site

Whenever possible, a minimally invasive method is used, such as the VISTA (Vestibular Incision Subperiosteal Tunnel Access) technique. This approach avoids large incisions and allows the graft to be placed through a small tunnel under the gum, reducing trauma and improving cosmetic outcomes.

We often pair gum grafting with platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) to support faster, more comfortable healing. PRF is made from your own blood and is rich in growth factors that accelerate tissue regeneration and reduce inflammation.

Gum Graft Recovery and Aftercare

Soft tissue grafting is performed as an outpatient procedure, but like any surgical treatment, it requires careful aftercare to ensure proper healing and long-term success. We will provide personalized instructions to support healing and comfort, including:

• Rest and limited physical activity for the first few days
• A soft-food diet during early recovery
• Gentle oral hygiene and natural healing supplements as prescribed

Dr. Deborah K. Ruprecht will remain in close contact with you following surgery and schedule one or more follow-up appointments to monitor your progress.

Gum Graft Healing Stages

Healing typically occurs in the following phases:

• Initial healing (1–2 weeks): The graft tissue integrates and swelling begins to subside.
• Tissue remodeling (2–6 weeks): New blood vessels form, and the tissue blends with your existing gumline.
• Long-term healing (6–12 weeks): Final results appear more natural and stable.

Many patients report feeling minimal discomfort after surgery, especially when PRF is used.

Frequently Asked Questions