Gum Grafting in Turlock, CA

Rejuvenate Your Smile with Gum Grafting in Turlock, CA

Gum recession can gradually destroy your smile, but gum grafting procedures performed by Dr. Jim Eggleston at Eggleston Dental Care in Turlock can help rejuvenate it. This minimally invasive treatment rebuilds receded gums for better oral health and an aesthetically pleasing smile. Learn more by calling our Turlock dental office by dialing 209-226-4963. 

What Is Gum Grafting?

Gum grafting, also known as gingival grafting and soft tissue augmentation, is a procedure that replaces lost gum tissue with grafted tissue from elsewhere in your mouth. This reconstructive treatment covers exposed roots to protect them from decay and sensitivity. A gum graft also restores your natural gum line symmetry for an evenly aligned smile. 

Types of Gum Grafts

There are three main types of gum grafting procedures performed by Dr. Eggleston depending on your needs:

• Free Gingival Graft: Tissue is taken from the palate and transplanted to cover exposed roots and augment deficient gum tissue. This is the most common and versatile graft option.
• Connective Tissue Graft: Deeper, denser tissue with blood vessels is grafted from under the palate over the exposed root. This provides greater protection and regeneration.
• Pedicle Graft: A small flap adjacent to the receded area is partially cut, shifted over, and stitched to cover the exposed root. This minimizes harvesting donor tissue.

Benefits of Gum Grafting

Gum grafting treatment with Dr. Eggleston provides a range of oral health and aesthetic benefits:

• Covers Exposed Root Surfaces – Soft tissue augmentation protects sensitive areas prone to pain, decay, and temperature sensitivity.
• Reduces Further Gum Recession – Gum grafting halts receding along the gumline.
• Improves Gum Contour – Soft tissue augmentation restores natural gum symmetry for an evenly aligned smile.
• Treats Insufficient Gums – Gum grafting augments thin or short gum tissues.
• Decreases Space Between Teeth – Gum grafting minimizes dark gaps from loss of papilla between teeth.
• Boosts Gum Health – Healthier grafted gum tissue is more resistant to periodontal disease.
• Saves Loose Teeth – Soft tissue augmentation stabilizes mobile teeth by rebuilding receded bone and gum support.
• Enhances Smile Aesthetics – More gums and less visible roots create a vibrant, youthful smile.

Common Reasons You May Need a Gum Graft

You may need to undergo soft tissue augmentation if any of the following apply to you:

• Periodontal Disease: If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, causing significant gum inflammation and recession. Severe gum disease can lead to the destruction of gum tissue and bone, necessitating gum grafting to restore lost structures.
• Aggressive Tooth Brushing or Flossing: Overly vigorous brushing or flossing can cause the gums to recede over time, exposing the tooth roots.
• Genetic Predisposition: Some individuals may be genetically predisposed to having thinner gum tissues, making them more susceptible to recession.
• Insufficient Gum Tissue: In some cases, individuals may naturally have inadequate gum tissue coverage, making them prone to gum recession.
• Orthodontic Treatment: Orthodontic procedures, such as braces or Invisalign, can sometimes cause changes in the position of the teeth, leading to gum recession.
• Trauma or Injury: Accidents or trauma to the mouth can result in gum recession, and a graft may be required to repair the damaged gum tissue.
• Tobacco Use: Smoking or using other tobacco products can contribute to poor gum health, increasing the risk of gum recession.
• Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Chronic teeth grinding can exert excessive force on the teeth and gums, potentially causing gum recession.
• Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations, such as those during pregnancy, menopause, or certain medical conditions, can affect gum health and contribute to recession.
• Misaligned Teeth: Teeth that are not properly aligned can create uneven forces during biting and chewing, leading to gum recession.
• Inadequate Oral Hygiene: Poor dental hygiene practices, such as infrequent brushing and flossing, can contribute to gum disease and recession.
• Root Exposure Due to Tooth Loss: After losing a tooth, the surrounding gums may recede, exposing the roots of adjacent teeth and necessitating grafting to cover the exposed areas.

The Gum Grafting Process with Dr. Eggleston

Gum grafting to restore your receding gums is a straightforward procedure performed over two to three visits at Eggleston Dental Care in Turlock.

Consultation

Before proceeding with a gum graft, you’ll have a consultation with our Turlock implant dentist. Dr. Eggleston will first assess your gum recession and explain the best grafting option. He develops a customized treatment plan focusing on your unique goals. Your consultation is a great time to ask any questions or voice any concerns you may have. 

Preparation

At the next visit, Dr. Eggleston prepares the graft recipient site and takes donor tissue if needed. Local anesthesia is administered for your comfort. 

Gum Grafting Procedure

The exposed root is thoroughly cleaned before the donor gingival tissue is sutured in place over it. The graft is carefully secured with specialty materials to protect and integrate it. Dr. Eggleston uses advanced techniques like the tunneling method for grafting multiple teeth or Pinhole® gum rejuvenation for graft-free recession treatment. We’ll make sure you’re comfortable throughout the procedure.

Gum Grafting Aftercare

Once your gum grafting procedure is finished, you’ll need to practice proper aftercare to ensure your whole healing process goes smoothly. Dr. Eggleston recommends the following tips to ensure proper gum graft healing:

1. Take any prescribed medication to manage discomfort as directed. Use ice packs to reduce swelling.
2. Avoid disturbed graft areas when brushing and flossing for the first few weeks. Gentle saltwater rinses can clean these spaces.
3. Stick to soft, lukewarm foods for at least five to seven days post-surgery. Avoid very hot or spicy foods.
4. Don’t smoke or use tobacco, as this impedes healing and increases the risk of infections.
5. Restrict physical activity for a few days to limit bleeding and let the graft integrate.
6. Follow up as directed so Dr. Eggleston can monitor your gum healing and remove any sutures.
7. Proper oral hygiene and attending all follow-up appointments lead to the best results long-term.