Gum Grafting Tacoma & Gig Harbor
Treating Gum Recession & Sensitive Teeth
Gum recession is the loss of gum/soft tissue around teeth. When the gum recedes the bone recedes, which is the actual support of the tooth. The main objective of gum grafting is to restore as ideal as possible the quantity and quality of the gum tissue and to protect the bone.
When recession of the gingiva/gum occurs and reaches the mucosa, the body loses a natural defense against both bacterial penetration and trauma. In addition, gum recession often results in root sensitivity to hot and cold foods as well as touch. The long appearance of the tooth as result of the recession creates an imbalance in the harmony of the teeth and gums. Gum recession can predispose to worsening recession. The exposed root surface, which is softer than enamel can lead to root caries and root gouging.
When gum recession is present, gum reconstruction using grafting techniques is an option. In areas with very thin gum a graft is needed to prevent recession from occurring and also when we have a strong pull from the tissue fibers from the inner mucosa of the cheeks or floor of the mouth.
Contact us for more information about Treating Gum Recession with Gum Grafting or to schedule an appointment with Periodontist Dr. Silvia La Rosa.
A gingival/gum graft is designed to solve these problems. A thin piece of tissue is taken from the roof of the mouth or gently moved over from adjacent areas to provide a stable band of attached gingiva around the tooth. The gingival graft may be placed in such a way as to cover the exposed portion of the root.
The gingival graft procedure is highly predictable and results in a stable, healthy band of attached tissue around the tooth.
Before Gum Grafting
After Gum Grafting
Before and after gum grafting photos
Patient Reviews for Gum Grafting
Sound Surgical Arts
Patient Testimonial
I had literally put off having this gum graft surgery for 15 years simply because I had heard from so many other people about the negative experience they had with this procedure. When I knew it was time to finally do something about it, I met with a prominent oral surgeon that had performed several successful procedures for members of our family and I point blank asked him, "Who do you recommend for gum graft surgery and would you send your mother to this specialist?" This surgeon didn't hesitate for one second. He immediately said, "Dr. Silvia La Rosa. She does the single best soft tissue graft surgery procedures in this entire region." That did it for me and I scheduled my consultation. From the time I had my consult to my last post-op check-up everything proceeded exactly as Dr. La Rosa and her staff described to me. I also achieved an outcome that frankly exceeded my expectations. The graft is perfect. The entire team was amazing. They took the time to understand my needs, hear my concerns and not only answered my questions, but provided me with options for ways to manage post-op discomfort (which was really minimal because I followed the post-op directions to the letter) to how to handle wearing my orthodontia retainers so they wouldn't "mess with grafting success" during my recovery. What I was the most impressed with was the professional courtesy that not only Dr. La Rosa and her team extend to their patients, but that they extend to each other. When was the last time you heard the staff and the doctor tell each other "please and thank you" while working together during a patient procedure? I could go on for hours sharing my glowing accolades for Dr. La Rosa and her staff, but I think the most important thing I can share with you is that if you need a soft tissue graft, go talk to Dr. La Rosa and her team. Dr. La Rosa has definitely turned the specialty of soft tissue grafting into "surgical art".
- Kelly L
Patient Testimonial
I have recommended Doctor to some friends that need different procedures. Very satisfied with the work done and everyone goes the extra mile.
- Bobbie G
Patient Testimonial
Dr Sylvia La Rosa and her entire staff are excellent and I am pleased with the results.
- David L
Patient Testimonial
Not a great thing to need done but a very good job done. Thank you very much!
- Gary Y
Patient Testimonial
Wonderful office to be a patient of. I will recommend to my closest friends, family and others.
- Laura Fulton
Patient Testimonial
The entire staff was super friendly and easy to work with. Dr. LaRosa was kind, caring and all of the back office staff made us feel comfortable and cared for
- Rachel R
Patient Testimonial
Fantastic overall service!
- Lenay S