Gum Recession in San Jose, CA

Protect Your Teeth From Gum Recession

Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue pulls away from a tooth, exposing more of the root. This can cause sensitivity, increase the risk of root decay and wear, and affect the appearance of your smile.

Dr. Shantia Kazemi is a periodontist and implant surgeon with advanced training in periodontal plastic surgery, soft-tissue reconstruction, and implant dentistry. She has performed approximately 5,000 gum grafting procedures and uses her periodontal expertise to evaluate the cause and severity of gum recession before recommending treatment.

Call 408-294-6624 to schedule a periodontal evaluation in San Jose.

What Causes Gum Recession?

Gum recession can develop for several reasons. Periodontal disease can damage the tissues supporting the teeth, while aggressive brushing can gradually wear away delicate gum tissue. Thin gums, tooth position, clenching or grinding, and other factors can also contribute to recession.

A periodontal evaluation helps identify the factors affecting your gums and determine whether treatment is needed. Addressing the underlying cause is an important part of protecting the gumline over time.

When Is Gum Recession Treatment Recommended?

Treatment may be recommended when recession has exposed the tooth root, caused persistent sensitivity, created a noticeable change in the gumline, or left the surrounding tissue too thin to provide adequate protection.

Gum recession may also need attention when periodontal disease is present or when thin gum tissue could be affected by planned orthodontic treatment.

Not every case requires surgery. Depending on the cause and severity of recession, treatment may include periodontal care, changes to oral hygiene techniques, management of contributing factors, or gum grafting.

Gum Recession Treatment and Gum Grafting

When gum tissue has receded significantly or the exposed root needs additional protection, gum grafting may be recommended.

Dr. Kazemi has extensive experience in periodontal plastic surgery and approximately 5,000 gum grafting procedures. Her advanced training includes subepithelial connective tissue grafting, coronally advanced flap procedures, VISTA techniques, laterally closed tunnel techniques, microsurgical soft-tissue management, and root coverage.

The appropriate technique depends on the location and extent of the recession, the condition of the surrounding tissue, and your treatment goals.

Advanced Periodontal Training

Dr. Kazemi completed advanced postgraduate training in periodontology and implant dentistry at the University of Southern California. Her additional training includes periodontal plastic surgery, periodontal microsurgery, hard- and soft-tissue reconstruction, and implant surgery.

Her approach emphasizes careful diagnosis, individualized treatment planning, minimally invasive techniques when appropriate, and careful management of the gum tissue.

This specialized periodontal background is particularly relevant for patients with significant gum recession, exposed roots, thin gum tissue, or complex soft-tissue concerns.

What to Expect During Gum Recession Treatment

Comprehensive Evaluation

Your gums, teeth, and supporting tissues are evaluated to determine the extent and likely cause of the recession. The evaluation also considers factors such as periodontal health, tooth position, gum thickness, and exposed root surfaces.

Treatment Planning

Based on your examination, Dr. Kazemi will determine whether conservative periodontal care, gum grafting, or another treatment approach is appropriate.

Gum Grafting When Needed

When grafting is recommended, the selected technique is used to add or reposition gum tissue around the affected tooth. Treatment may help protect exposed roots and improve the thickness and stability of the surrounding tissue.

Healing and Follow-Up

The treated area needs time to heal and mature. You will receive instructions for protecting the area during recovery, and follow-up appointments allow the healing process to be monitored.

Benefits of Treating Gum Recession

Treating significant gum recession can help:

• Protect exposed tooth roots
• Reduce sensitivity associated with exposed roots
• Increase the thickness of thin gum tissue
• Reduce the risk of root decay and wear
• Improve the appearance of an uneven gumline
• Support healthier periodontal tissues

The appropriate treatment depends on the cause and severity of the recession. An evaluation is necessary before determining whether gum grafting or another approach is appropriate.

Schedule a Gum Recession Evaluation in San Jose

If you have sensitive teeth, exposed roots, receding gums, or concerns about the appearance of your gumline, a periodontal evaluation can help determine the cause and appropriate treatment.

Dr. Shantia Kazemi combines advanced periodontal plastic surgery training with extensive experience in gum grafting and soft-tissue reconstruction.

Call 408-294-6624 to schedule an evaluation at Bay Area Dental & Implant Center.