Gum Recession Surgery in Brookline, MA
Restore Your Gum Line. Protect Your Teeth.
Gum recession is one of the most common dental conditions in adults — and one of the most undertreated. At Pleasant Dental Associates in Brookline, MA, our board-certified periodontists are gum specialists who use advanced gum plastic surgery techniques to restore your gum line, relieve sensitivity, and protect your teeth from further damage.
What Is Gum Recession?
Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue surrounding a tooth pulls back or wears away, exposing more of the tooth root. This can lead to tooth sensitivity, an uneven smile, and — if left untreated — serious damage to the bone and structures supporting your teeth.
Research shows that nearly 50% of adults between ages 18 and 64, and up to 90% of adults over 65, have at least one site of gum recession.
Signs You May Have Gum Recession
• Sensitivity to cold, heat, or sweet foods and drinks
• Teeth that appear longer than usual
• A notch or groove you can feel at the gum line
• Visible tooth roots
• Increased spacing between teeth
What Causes Gum Recession?
• Periodontal (gum) disease
• Aggressive tooth brushing
• Genetic predisposition
• Teeth grinding (bruxism)
• Misaligned teeth or bite issues
• Lip or tongue piercings
Our Gum Recession Treatment Options
Gum Plastic Surgery (Soft Tissue Grafting)
The most effective and lasting treatment for gum recession is a soft tissue graft. Our periodontists take a small amount of tissue — either from the roof of your mouth or from a donor source — and carefully place it at the recession site to cover the exposed root and restore a healthy gum line.
Pinhole Surgical Technique
For suitable candidates, we offer minimally invasive gum recession correction techniques that do not require sutures. Recovery is faster and discomfort is significantly reduced.
Early Intervention
The earlier gum recession is treated, the better the outcome. Mild recession can sometimes be managed with improved oral hygiene habits and monitoring, while more advanced cases require surgical correction.
Why Choose Pleasant Dental Associates for Gum Recession?
• Board-certified periodontists — gum specialists by training and credential
• Faculty at Boston University and Tufts — among the most qualified surgeons in New England
• Minimally invasive techniques for faster recovery
• Personalized treatment plans based on your specific anatomy and degree of recession
• Seamless coordination with prosthodontists if restorative work is needed afterward
Frequently Asked Questions — Gum Recession
Q: Is gum recession reversible?
A: Gum tissue does not grow back on its own. However, gum plastic surgery can restore the gum line by grafting new tissue to cover the exposed root. Early treatment leads to the best outcomes.
Q: Does gum recession surgery hurt?
A: The procedure is performed under local anesthesia so you will not feel pain during treatment. Post-operative discomfort is typically mild and manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers. Most patients return to normal activities within a few days.
Q: How long does gum recession surgery take?
A: The procedure typically takes one to two hours depending on how many sites are being treated. In many cases, multiple recession sites can be addressed in a single visit.
Q: Will my insurance cover gum recession treatment?
A: Many dental insurance plans cover gum recession treatment, particularly when it is related to periodontal disease. We will review your insurance coverage and help maximize your benefits before beginning treatment.
📅 Ready to Get Started?
Pleasant Dental Associates is now accepting new patients. $259 New Patient Special.
Call 617-975-3399 | 1318 Beacon Street Suite 20, Brookline, MA 02446
Book online: dental4.me/pleasantdental/1