Gum Recession Treatment

The ideal treatment depends on the cause and severity of your recession, the thickness of your gum tissue, your medical history, and how many areas require correction. During your exam, the doctor assesses your bite, tooth position, tissue quality, and plaque levels to determine whether connective tissue grafting, donor tissue, or the Pinhole Surgical Technique will give you the most predictable result. Your personalized plan ensures you achieve long-term stability, not just cosmetic improvement.

Most patients experience a significant reduction in sensitivity after treatment because the exposed roots are once again protected by healthier, thicker gum tissue. Once the root surface is covered, discomfort from cold drinks, hot food, brushing, or sweets typically decreases dramatically. Thickened gum tissue also provides long-term reinforcement that helps prevent sensitivity from returning.

Yes. Modern microsurgical techniques allow the doctors to gently reposition or graft tissue in a way that blends seamlessly with the surrounding gums. As the procedure involves extremely precise instruments and magnification, the contours created during healing mimic the natural scalloping of your gumline. Patients often find that their smile looks younger and healthier immediately after healing.

Although healing timelines vary, most patients return to work within 1 – 2 days. Minor swelling or tenderness is normal but short-lived. The small incisions created through microsurgery mean a faster, more comfortable recovery compared to traditional techniques. Detailed aftercare instructions ensure your gum tissue heals strongly, stably, and predictably over the following weeks.

Costs vary depending on the number of teeth involved, whether you require live tissue or donor tissue, and which technique is used. Minimally invasive microsurgical procedures may also differ in price from traditional grafting. After your consultation, you’ll receive a transparent treatment estimate tailored to your exact needs. Patients often find the cost worthwhile because a recession left untreated can lead to much more expensive restorative treatment in the future.

Many dental insurance plans contribute to gum recession treatment when it is considered medically necessary, for example, when root exposure, sensitivity, or risk of tooth loss is present. Coverage varies widely, so the Pasadena Periodontics team will review your individual benefits, help you understand your out-of-pocket costs, and submit all required documentation on your behalf.

Beyond restoring a healthier and more attractive smile, recession treatment protects the roots from decay, reduces sensitivity, strengthens the support around the teeth, and helps prevent future bone loss. Thickened gum tissue is more resilient against everyday brushing, eating forces, and inflammation. Treating recession early also preserves the natural tooth structure and reduces the likelihood of needing extensive dental work later.

Choosing a provider with specialized training in minimally invasive gum grafting is key. Patients throughout Pasadena, South Pasadena, San Marino, and the Greater Los Angeles area seek out Dr. Henriod and Dr. Hendry because they focus exclusively on periodontal care and use advanced microsurgery to maximize comfort and outcomes. Their expertise in both traditional and contemporary grafting techniques offers patients more predictable options than general dental offices.

Yes. Pasadena Periodontics routinely welcomes patients traveling from surrounding communities such as Glendale, Arcadia, Altadena, and Los Angeles. Appointments can be scheduled quickly, and the team can coordinate treatment plans for patients who may need to travel. Whether you are local or visiting from out of town, the practice provides the same high-level diagnostic evaluation and individualized care.