Oral Surgery & Periodontics
Gum Grafting
Restoring the frame around your smile.
25,000+ patients served across our 3 offices
The Anthem approach
Receding gums expose tooth roots — inviting sharp sensitivity, root decay, and a longer-toothed look that ages a smile prematurely. Gum grafting restores that lost tissue with a delicate procedure that's as protective as it is cosmetic.
Healthy tissue is placed precisely where recession has occurred, covering exposed roots and rebuilding a resilient band of gum. The result: comfortable teeth, protected roots, and a naturally framed smile.
Because recession often has an underlying cause — gum disease, aggressive brushing, or grinding — we address that alongside the graft itself, otherwise recession tends to return. Patients being treated for periodontal disease or bruxism sometimes need a gum graft as part of a broader plan to protect their teeth long-term.
Gum recession is often connected to gum disease — visit our periodontal treatment page to learn how we treat it at every stage.
- Ends hot/cold root sensitivity
- Protects exposed roots from decay
- Restores a youthful gumline
- Halts progressive recession
Good to know
OfficeAvailable at all 3 offices
InsuranceIn-network with the major PPOs. Medi-Cal Dental & IEHP also accepted. Details
FinancingCareCredit & Sunbit — payments that fit your budget
New patients$125 exam & X-rays without insurance
What to expect
Your visit, step by step.
Recession mapping and cause assessment
Comfortable, precise graft placement
A quiet week of soft foods while it heals
Follow-up confirms coverage and comfort
FAQ
Gum Grafting — your questions, answered.
What causes gum recession?
Aggressive brushing, gum disease, genetics, grinding, and orthodontic history are the usual culprits. We address the cause, not just the symptom — otherwise recession returns.
Is gum grafting painful?
The procedure is done under local anesthesia. Recovery involves about a week of tenderness managed with soft foods and standard pain relievers.
How successful are gum grafts?
Very — success rates exceed 90% when the underlying cause is controlled, and the results typically last decades.
How do I know if I need a gum graft?
Signs include visible root exposure, teeth that look longer than they used to, and sensitivity to hot or cold at the gumline. We'll map the extent of recession and confirm whether grafting is the right next step.
Will I need more than one graft over time?
If the underlying cause — grinding, gum disease, or brushing technique — is addressed, results typically last for decades. We'll help you manage the cause so a single graft is often enough.
Does gum grafting help with sensitivity right away?
Sensitivity often improves noticeably once the graft heals and the root surface is covered again, though the full benefit builds over the first few weeks as tissue matures.
New to Anthem Dental?
What to expect before you book
If you have not been to one of our offices before, what happens at a first visit walks through the whole appointment step by step — what we look at, what it costs, and what we will never do without telling you first. Walk-ins are welcome at every office, though calling ahead means less waiting.
Gum Grafting is performed in-house, so nothing here is referred out to a stranger across town. Meet the team who would be treating you, and read how the practice works if you want the fuller picture. We are in-network with the major PPO plans and also accept Medi-Cal Dental (Denti-Cal) and IEHP — see the full list and what it means for your bill.
Choose whichever office is easiest for you: all 3 are here, each with its own hours, parking and directions.
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Precise reshaping of gum and bone — to rescue a damaged tooth or transform a gummy smile.
Learn more$125 New Patient Special
Ask us about gum grafting — no pressure, ever.
Comprehensive exam and full digital X-rays for new patients without insurance. New patients only. Dental emergencies welcome — we do our best to see you quickly.