By: Alex Farnoosh D.M.D., M.S.D., Ph.D.

Like many periodontists in Los Angeles, I see people every day who suffer from gum recession. Gum recession is a process that causes the tooth roots to become exposed, leaving the patient susceptible to bacteria build-up sensitivity, decay and even tooth loss. There are many possible causes of gum recession, including:

• Periodontal disease
• Poor dental hygiene / faulty brushing
• Bite and other factors

Treatments

It’s very important that gum recession be treated in order to avoid tooth and bone loss and maintain your oral health. I often perform 2 types of grafting treatment for this condition:

• Gum Grafting

Gum grafting is a procedure that allows me to use synthetic or natural tissue to replace lost gum tissue and reduce the amount of tooth root exposed. By covering the exposed roots, I am able to help prevent decay and make the gum line more symmetrical and attractive.

• Gum/Bone Grafting

Patients who are experiencing bone loss in addition to or because of gum recession may require both a gum graft and a bone graft. Bone grafting helps to fortify the jawbone, the foundation for healthy teeth. I offer natural and synthetic bone materials and may also use stem cells or bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) to stimulate bone regeneration.