Restore Your Smile with Soft Tissue Grafting in San Luis Obispo
If you’re noticing increased tooth sensitivity, gum recession, or changes in your smile’s appearance, it could be time to consider soft tissue grafting. This common periodontal procedure helps restore receding gums, protect your teeth from damage, and enhance your oral health, while also giving your smile a more youthful, balanced look.
At our San Luis Obispo dentist’s office, Dr. E. Carrie Ramirez offers gentle, effective soft tissue grafting services tailored to your needs. Whether you’re experiencing discomfort or simply want to prevent further gum loss, this procedure can play a critical role in improving your long-term dental health. Call (805) 549-8483 to schedule your consultation and protect your smile for years to come.
Why Choose Our San Luis Obispo Dental Office?
At our San Luis Obispo location, Dr. E. Carrie Ramirez and our experienced dental team combine modern techniques with compassionate care to make your treatment smooth and successful. We focus on preserving your natural gum tissue while promoting long-lasting healing.
Using advanced surgical tools, grafting materials, and biocompatible tissue options, our dentist’s office delivers results that not only improve your oral health but also help you smile with confidence again. Patients from across San Luis Obispo, Arroyo Grande, Pismo Beach, and Santa Margarita trust Dr. Ramirez for soft tissue grafting because of our personalized care and proven outcomes.
What Is Soft Tissue Grafting?
Soft tissue grafting is a periodontal plastic surgery procedure used to treat gum recession and restore gum tissue. During the procedure, healthy gum tissue is placed in areas where the gumline has worn away, often exposing the tooth root. These soft tissue grafts may come from another area of your mouth or from donor tissue.
This process helps:
- Cover exposed tooth roots
- Reduce tooth sensitivity
- Prevent further gum recession
- Promote natural tissue growth
- Improve the aesthetics of your smile
Soft tissue grafting in San Luis Obispo is performed using advanced surgical techniques designed to encourage healing, preserve natural tissue, and produce beautiful, lasting results.
Think you might be a candidate for gum grafting? Call our San Luis Obispo dentist at (805) 549-8483 to schedule a consultation today.
What Causes Gum Recession?
Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue surrounding your teeth begins to pull back, exposing more of the tooth or its root. It’s often caused by:
- Periodontal disease (gum disease)
- Overbrushing or using a hard-bristled toothbrush
- Genetics
- Poor oral hygiene
- Hormonal changes
- Teeth grinding or clenching
- Tobacco use
If left untreated, gum recession can lead to tooth sensitivity, increased risk of tooth decay, and even tooth loss. Soft tissue grafting is a highly effective way to reverse or slow this process.
Types of Soft Tissue Grafts
There are several types of grafting procedures used to restore gum tissue. At our San Luis Obispo dentist’s office, Dr. Ramirez will determine which type is best for your unique needs.
Connective Tissue Graft
This is the most common type of gum grafting surgery. A flap is created in the roof of your mouth to access connective tissue, which is then placed over the exposed root.
Free Gingival Graft
This method also uses tissue from the roof of the mouth, but instead of taking from beneath the surface, a thin piece is removed directly and applied to the treatment area. This is commonly used when patients need to thicken existing gum tissue.
Pedicle Graft
In this approach, tissue is taken from the gum near the tooth needing repair. The flap (or pedicle) is partially cut and then repositioned to cover the exposed area. This option requires the patient to have sufficient gum tissue nearby.
Donor Tissue Options
In some cases, donor tissue or protective surgical material may be used instead of tissue from your own mouth. This may reduce discomfort and healing time while promoting natural tissue growth.
Rebuild your gum health with professional care. Our dentist in San Luis Obispo specializes in soft tissue grafting procedures that restore comfort, protect teeth, and improve your oral health. Call (805) 549-8483 to learn more.
What to Expect During Your Soft Tissue Grafting Procedure
Dr. Ramirez will begin with a full evaluation and diagnostic imaging to assess the severity of your gum recession and determine the best treatment plan.
The Soft Tissue Grafting Procedure Procedure Typically Includes:
- Local anesthesia for comfort
- Gentle preparation of the grafting site
- Harvesting of graft tissue (or placement of donor tissue)
- Placement and securement of the graft
- Use of tissue-stimulating proteins to aid healing (when needed)
- Placement of protective dressing or surgical material
The entire process is done with precision and care to minimize discomfort and ensure long-term success.
Healing and Aftercare
Healing time varies depending on the type of soft tissue graft and the size of the treatment area. Most patients experience only mild discomfort and can return to normal activities within a few days.
Tips for Optimal Healing:
- Stick to soft foods for the first week
- Avoid brushing the surgical site
- Use prescribed mouth rinses to prevent infection
- Avoid smoking and alcohol
- Follow all aftercare instructions closely
Our San Luis Obispo dental team will check in with you post-oral surgery and provide detailed guidance to ensure your graft takes properly and heals well.
Benefits of Soft Tissue Grafting
Soft tissue grafting offers both cosmetic and functional advantages, making it an important investment in your smile’s health and longevity.
Benefits Include:
- Reversal of gum recession
- Alleviation of tooth sensitivity
- Prevention of future bone or tooth loss
- Improved oral health
- Protection for dental implants and exposed roots
- More balanced and youthful smile aesthetics
By addressing gum recession early, you can avoid more invasive dental procedures down the line. Worried about tooth sensitivity or exposed roots? Call (805) 549-8483 to talk with our San Luis Obispo dentist about gum grafting surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions
If your gums are receding, your teeth are sensitive, or you can see exposed tooth roots, soft tissue grafting may be necessary. Our San Luis Obispo dentist can assess your condition and recommend the best option.
Local anesthesia is used to ensure you feel no pain during the procedure. Post-operative discomfort is generally mild and can be managed with over-the-counter medication.
Most patients heal within one to two weeks, although complete tissue integration can take longer. Our dental team in San Luis Obispo will provide detailed aftercare instructions for your specific case.
If the cause of your gum recession is addressed—such as improving oral hygiene, correcting bite issues, or treating periodontal disease—the results of soft tissue grafting can last many years or even a lifetime.
Take the First Step Toward Healthier Gums Today
If you’ve noticed signs of gum recession or are experiencing increased tooth sensitivity, soft tissue grafting may be the solution. At our San Luis Obispo dentist’s office, Dr. Ramirez offers advanced, compassionate care to help restore your gums and protect your oral health for the long run.
Don’t wait to address gum recession—call (805) 549-8483 to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward healthier gums and a stronger smile.
