Gum Grafting in Orange, CA

If periodontal (gum) disease has progressed into the more complex phases, you might develop gum recession. This induces a raised gum line and visible tooth roots. At Patrick Yoshikane, D.D.S., a part of your gum disease therapy may consist of gum graft surgery to restore your gum line. With many different graft choices, Dr. Patrick Yoshikane will create your unique treatment plan to repair your gums. Contact our office in Orange, CA to find out more information on how gum graft surgery may repair your gums, cover your teeth, and also enhance the appearance of your smile.

Most commonly, gum grafts are needed to fix the gum recession brought on by gum (periodontal) disease. Your gum line might be visibly higher, and your gums may pull back from your teeth. Exposed tooth roots can lead to greater sensitivity. Less common reasons that may cause or lead to gum recession are aggressive tooth brushing or using a bad technique, frequent jaw clenching or teeth grinding (bruxism), and dental misalignment. Sometimes oral piercings (tongue or lip) can rub against the gums and lead to recession. During your appointment, Dr. Yoshikane will assess your gums and decide if you're a good candidate for gum grafting.

There are different kinds of grafts that will be chosen according to your particular needs. Connective-tissue gum grafts are the most common kind used to fix exposed tooth roots. This starts by cutting an incision in the palate (roof of your mouth) to take a little flap of skin. The special connective tissue is taken from inside the flap and then grafted to your gums. A free gingival graft is comparable except that much more tissue is taken from the roof of your mouth to build up especially thin gums. The next graft is a pedicle graft, which removes extra tissue from your mouth to wherever you need coverage. During your initial consultation, Dr. Yoshikane can help you select the type of graft for your needs and goals.

Following this procedure, you should recover for a couple of days by taking it easy. You will also have to have someone take you home if you had oral sedation. Dr. Yoshikane will explain your aftercare instructions, such as what to eat, what to avoid, and any prescription medications you will need to take. You might feel some discomfort or pain for a short amount of time after the procedure, which may be minimized with cold packs and nonprescription pain medication. To prevent damaging the grafts, you shouldn't floss or brush while your gums heal. Dr. Yoshikane will suggest an oral rinse to help keep your mouth fresh. At your follow up appointment, Dr. Yoshikane will track your recovery and improvements.

Based on your dental insurance coverage, some of your costs may be paid. After talking to your insurance company, we can better calculate your out-of-pocket costs. At your consult, the team of Dr.Yoshikane can go over payment methods, along with financing, to help make your procedure affordable.

Surgical gum grafts are a restoration dental treatment at Patrick Yoshikane, D.D.S., utilized to fix your gums, improve your dental health, and also help to make your smile look more appealing. If you have gum recession because of advanced gum disease or other reasons, schedule an appointment with Dr. Patrick Yoshikane at our practice in Orange, CA to find out more about the advantages of gum grafting.