Expert Gum Graft Surgery in Brentwood, CA

At Fairview Dental Brentwood, we know that a healthy smile is about more than just white teeth, it’s about the frame that holds them. When gum tissue wears away, a condition known as recession, it exposes the sensitive roots of your teeth. Dr. Thuc Luu performs Gum Graft Surgery to restore lost tissue, protect your teeth from decay, and enhance the symmetry of your smile.

Gum grafting is a highly successful restorative procedure that stops the progression of bone loss and eliminates the “long-toothed” appearance caused by receding gums.

Why Is a Gum Graft Necessary?

Gum recession is a gradual process, but its effects can be serious. Because root surfaces do not have a hard layer of enamel, they are much softer and more prone to damage.

A gum graft is often recommended to treat:

Root Sensitivity: Exposed roots are extremely sensitive to hot, cold, and sweet foods.
Root Caries (Decay): Without gum protection, roots decay much faster than the crown of the tooth.
Advanced Bone Loss: If gums continue to recede, the underlying bone often follows, eventually leading to tooth loss.
Aesthetic Concerns: Recession can make the smile look aged or uneven.
Trusted Resource: Learn more about the causes and treatments for gum recession from the American Academy of Periodontology.

Types of Gum Grafting Procedures

Depending on your specific needs and the amount of tissue available, Dr. Luu may utilize one of several grafting techniques:

1. Connective Tissue Graft

The most common method used to treat root exposure. A small “flap” is created on the roof of your mouth (palate), and tissue is taken from under the flap. This tissue is then stitched to the gum area surrounding the exposed root.

Best For: Covering exposed roots in most patients.

2. Free Gingival Graft

Similar to a connective tissue graft, but the tissue is taken directly from the surface of the palate.

Best For: People who have very thin gums and need extra tissue to thicken the existing gumline to prevent further recession.

3. Pedicle Graft (Lateral Graft)

Instead of taking tissue from the palate, the tissue is “shared” from the gums right next to the recession. A flap is partially cut and slid over to cover the exposed root.

Best For: Patients who have plenty of healthy gum tissue near the area of recession.

The Procedure: What to Expect

We prioritize a microsurgical approach to ensure minimal discomfort and a fast recovery.

Preparation: The area is thoroughly numbed with local anesthesia. For patients who are anxious, we offer various sedation options to help you stay relaxed.
Graft Placement: Dr. Luu carefully prepares the site of recession and secures the donor tissue using ultra-fine sutures (stitches).
Protection: In many cases, a protective “bandage” or dressing is placed over the site to keep it undisturbed during the first few days of healing.

Recovery and Aftercare in Brentwood

The success of a gum graft depends heavily on the “quiet” healing of the tissue during the first two weeks.

Do Not Disturb: Do not pull back your lip to look at the graft. Moving the tissue can disrupt the new blood vessels forming in the graft.
Dietary Restrictions: Stick to soft, cool foods (yogurt, smoothies, cottage cheese) for the first week. Avoid crunchy or spicy foods that could poke the surgical site.
Hygiene: You will be given a special antimicrobial rinse. Do not brush or floss the graft site until Dr. Luu tells you it is safe to do so.
Managing Comfort: Most patients find that over-the-counter pain relief is sufficient. If tissue was taken from your palate, it may feel like a “pizza burn” for a few days.

Why Choose Fairview Dental Brentwood for Gum Grafting?

Dr. Thuc Luu combines clinical precision with an artistic eye for smile symmetry.

Advanced Microsurgery: We use specialized instruments and fine suturing techniques to promote faster healing and better aesthetic results.
Personalized Consultation: We identify the cause of your recession (such as aggressive brushing or teeth grinding) so we can prevent the problem from returning after the graft.
Comfort-Focused Care: From the initial numbing to post-operative follow-ups, we ensure you are supported every step of the way.

Restore Your Smile’s Foundation

Don’t let receding gums compromise your oral health or your confidence. At Fairview Dental Brentwood, we can restore the protective “frame” of your smile with expert grafting.

Contact us today at (925) 240-7253, book online, or visit our office in the Shops at Fairview to schedule an evaluation.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Service

How painful is gum grafting surgery?

The procedure itself is performed under local anesthesia, so you will not feel anything during the surgery. Afterward, you may experience mild soreness, which can typically be managed with prescribed medications and by following post-surgical care instructions provided by your periodontist.

How long does a gum graft surgery take?

The duration of the surgery depends on the number of teeth being treated. A single gum graft usually takes about one hour, while treating multiple areas of recession in one session may require more time.

Is gum graft surgery worth it?

With success rates exceeding 90%, gum grafting is considered highly effective for treating recession and improving oral health. It helps prevent future complications such as cavities on exposed roots, severe gum disease, and potential tooth loss.

What are the worst days after a gum graft?

Swelling typically peaks around the third or fourth day following the procedure. While bleeding usually subsides within the first 24 to 48 hours, patients should expect the most significant swelling and potential bruising to occur during the first week of recovery.

How soon can you eat after a gum graft?

You should stick to soft, cool foods like yogurt, pudding, or smoothies on the first day. During the first week, you can gradually introduce soft foods such as eggs, pasta, and cooked vegetables, but you must avoid hard, crunchy, or spicy foods until your surgeon clears you.

Can I drive myself home after a gum graft?

This depends on the type of anesthesia used. If you receive only local anesthesia, you may be able to drive; however, if you opt for sedation dentistry (such as oral or IV sedation), you will need a trusted friend or family member to drive you home.

What can’t you do after a gum graft?

For at least the first week, you must avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, and any activities that increase your heart rate. Additionally, you should not brush or floss directly on the gum graft site until your periodontist confirms it is safe to do so.