Gum Grafting Lynnwood | Dr. Javadi DDS MSD
Gum Grafting Lynnwood | Dr. Javadi DDS MSD
If routine activities, such as drinking coffee or breathing cold air, trigger tooth sensitivity, you may be experiencing gingival recession, a condition that exposes vulnerable root structures. Left untreated, recession can lead to root decay, bone loss, and even tooth mobility as protective gum tissue continues to deteriorate. In advanced cases, it may require complex restorative treatments, such as dental implants.
At Orchid Periodontics, Dr. Ellie Javadi provides advanced soft-tissue grafting in Lynnwood, utilizing 3D imaging and microsurgical precision for predictable results. With IV sedation options and ultra-fine sutures, her procedures prioritize patient comfort. A trusted specialist with 20 years of experience and a 4.9-star patient rating, Dr. Javadi helps patients achieve durable, aesthetic, and pain-free smiles.
Understanding Gum Recession
Gum recession is a progressive loss of gingival tissue that causes the gumline to creep downward (on upper teeth) or upward (on lower teeth), gradually uncovering the root surface. Unlike enamel-clad crowns, dental roots lack a hard protective coating, so even a millimeter of exposure can make teeth hypersensitive to temperature changes and more susceptible to decay.
- Recession deepens periodontal pockets, accelerates bone loss, and can ultimately loosen otherwise healthy teeth.
- Because the process is typically slow and painless, many people notice it only when brushing triggers a sudden “zing,” or when they spot an uneven gumline in photos.
- Early diagnosis paired with therapies such as scaling and root planing, occlusal adjustment, and, when appropriate, gum grafting, prevents further tissue loss and restores a stable, symmetrical smile.
What Causes Gum Recession?
Gum recession develops gradually, and most patients experience years of silent damage before symptoms appear. Contributing factors include:
- Vigorous or hard-bristle brushing
- Untreated periodontal disease
- Genetics or naturally thin gum tissue
- Past orthodontic movement that shifted teeth outside the bony envelope
Warning signs you may notice:
- Sensitivity to cold, heat, or sweets
- Visible “black triangles” between teeth in photos
- Persistent inflammation despite hygiene visits
- Deep pockets forming around affected teeth
Early intervention with gum grafting thickens fragile tissue and halts further root exposure, often preventing cavities or premature tooth loss.
Gum Grafting Options For Lynnwood Patients
Dr. Javadi offers two proven techniques, selecting the right one after a thorough clinical exam and digital imaging review.
Gingival Graft for Early Recession
For mild thinning, a free gingival graft adds keratinized tissue to strengthen the affected area, thereby enhancing its stability. Dr. Javadi utilizes minimally invasive techniques to minimize discomfort, with most patients resuming normal eating within 48 hours.
Soft-Tissue (Root-Coverage) Graft for Advanced Exposure
If roots are already showing or multiple teeth are involved, a broader connective-tissue graft taken from you or sterile donor material blankets the exposed surface, sealing nerve endings and discouraging plaque build-up.
Both procedures are performed under local anesthesia. Optional IV or oral sedation is available, and every graft is secured with hair-fine microsutures to accelerate healing.
What to Expect on Procedure Day
Your graft is completed in our AAAHC-accredited surgical suite, where strict sterilization standards and a dedicated clinical team ensure your comfort and safety. The process follows four straightforward steps:
- Local Anesthesia – A focused injection fully numbs the treatment area.
- Tissue Harvest or Donor Prep – A paper-thin strip is gently taken from your palate, or pre-sterilized donor tissue is readied.
- Graft Placement – The graft is trimmed to fit your recession pattern and secured with ultra-fine microsutures.
- After-Care Review – You leave with clear instructions on rinsing, diet, medications, and a direct line for any questions.
Most procedures are completed in 60–90 minutes, and patients typically return to desk work the following day.
Recovery & Home-Care Tips
Thoughtful aftercare turns a successful surgery into a flawless result. Follow these guidelines to minimize swelling and maintain graft stability.
- Diet: Cool, soft foods for 5–7 days (yogurt, avocado, smoothies).
- Hygiene: Antimicrobial rinse instead of brushing at the graft until cleared.
- Activity: No heavy lifting for 72 hours; light walking encouraged.
- Comfort: Alternate NSAIDs with 10-minute ice intervals on Day 1.
How Much Does Gum Grafting Cost in Lynnwood?
Gum-grafting fees are case-specific. Dr. Javadi assesses the depth and spread of the recession, the number of teeth that require coverage, whether she will use your palate tissue or pre-sterilized donor material, and whether any supportive procedures, such as deep scaling or minor bone contouring, are necessary. After this examination, you receive a written, line-item estimate and an insurance pre-determination, so you know your exact out-of-pocket cost before committing to the procedure.
Reserve Your Lynnwood Gum Health Check
Don’t wait until cold drinks sting—our team can often see new patients within a week. Call (425) 775-2002 or book online to get personalized treatment options and costs in
one visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does gum grafting cost for Lynnwood patients?
It depends on several variables, including the number of teeth that require coverage, the severity of recession, whether Dr. Javadi uses your palate tissue or pre-sterilized donor material, and whether auxiliary steps such as deep cleaning or minor bone contouring are necessary.
Who is not a good candidate for gum grafting?
People with uncontrolled diabetes or hypertension, heavy smokers who will not pause tobacco use, or patients with active periodontal infection typically face higher graft-failure risks; stabilizing these conditions is recommended before surgery.
How long does gum grafting last?
Is gum grafting very painful?
Local anesthesia blocks sensation during the procedure, so patients feel pressure but no pain. Afterward, discomfort is mild to moderate, peaking in the first 24 hours and usually managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Hours of Operation
Our Regular Schedule
- MondayClosed
- Tuesday7:00 am - 3:00 pm
- wednesday7:00 am - 3:00 pm
- Thursday7:00 am - 3:00 pm
- FRIDAY1st & 3rd Friday of the month
- SaturdayClosed
- SundayClosed