Recession & Grafting
Gum Recession Treatment

Gum grafting in Sherman Oaks

Treatment for receding gums that covers exposed roots, reduces sensitivity and thickens thin gum tissue so it is more resistant to further recession.

What it treats

Gum recession exposes the root surface of a tooth. Roots are softer than enamel and more prone to sensitivity, decay and wear.

Recession can follow gum disease, aggressive brushing, grinding, thin tissue or orthodontic tooth movement. Grafting replaces lost tissue and, where the tooth allows, covers the exposed root.

Signs of gum recession
01
Teeth that look longer than before
02
Sensitivity to cold at the gumline
03
A notch you can feel near the gumline
04
Visible root surface
05
Gaps between teeth near the gums
06
Recession noted at a cleaning
Delaram Hanookai, DDS, MS
Periodontist & Dental Implantologist
Specialist Care

Restoring the gum line

Thin gum tissue tends to keep receding. Grafting adds thickness so the result holds over time.

Dr. Hanookai chooses the technique based on how much tissue is missing, how many teeth are involved and the appearance you want. Her specialty training at USC focused on the gums and bone that support the teeth.

Certification
Periodontist & Dental Implantologist
Teaching
10 years, USC Periodontics
Experience
28+ years clinical
Treatment Options

Matched to the tissue

The technique depends on how much tissue is missing and how many teeth are affected.

01

Connective tissue graft

Tissue from the palate is placed under the gum to cover the root and add thickness.

Root coverage
02

Free gingival graft

Tissue is added to the surface of the gum to create a firmer band where it is thin.

Tissue thickening
03

Donor tissue graft

Processed donor tissue is used instead of tissue from the palate, so there is no second site.

No palate site
04

Pinhole technique

The existing gum is gently repositioned over the root through a small entry point, without a graft.

Minimally invasive
Treated by
Dr. Delaram Hanookai, DDS, MS
What to Expect

From assessment to healing

01

Assessment

Recession is measured at each tooth and the cause is identified, so it can be addressed first.

02

Treatment plan

Dr. Hanookai recommends a technique and explains how much root coverage to expect.

03

Grafting

Treatment is done under local anesthetic, often for several teeth in one visit.

04

Healing and review

The tissue is checked as it heals, and the gum line is reviewed at follow-up visits.

For Referring Dentists
Recession treated before restorative work

Refer patients with recession or thin tissue ahead of crowns, veneers or orthodontic treatment.

Results

Related cases

01
Before and after gum grafting: lower gum recession covered
Treatment

Gum grafting

Case

Localized recession, lower arch

02
Before and after gum grafting: exposed roots covered with new gum tissue
Treatment

Gum grafting

Case

Root coverage

03
Before and after gum grafting during orthodontic treatment
Treatment

Gum grafting

Case

Root coverage

Patient Reviews

From patients treated for
gum recession

Reviews from Google and Yelp, and videos from patients who had recession treated by Dr. Hanookai.

Google reviews
Posted on Google Google
Yazmina Gonzalez Crooks profile picture
Yazmina Gonzalez Crooks
2 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
My experience at Southland Dental has been wonderful so far. I was referred by my Ortho for a check-up on my gum recession. I had an appointment scheduled with Dr Hanookai. From the offset, the staff were just so lovely. I had some anxiety when i initially called in, but even just speaking to Joanna over the phone, i felt assured. Joanna and Ana were so helpful and so sweet when I visited. (Thank you both for answering all my questions) Dr Hanookai was so great too, she explained exactly what i needed and i felt as comfortable as can be during the procedure. Im still healing and eventhough i had a concern prior to my next visit, they were able to have me stop by same day to ensure i was healing appropriately. Thank you for providing this experience, looking forward to seeing the final result!
Posted on Google Google
Kay Isa profile picture
Kay Isa
5 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
If i could give this dental office 10 stars i absolutely would! I drive over an hour to see them because they are so amazing. From the front office to the back office they make your visit so flawless. They work with your budget. The best of all is that they are so understanding, I have really bad dental anxiety and they are so helpful. I truly appreciate this office.
Posted on Google Google
steve farah profile picture
steve farah
5 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
5 stars 🌟 Southland Dental Care is amazing I had several extraction done with Dr. Hanookai she explained the procedures and kept me calmed anyone that needs a dental office Southland Dental Care is the place to go.
Posted on Google Google
Estela Silva profile picture
Estela Silva
5 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Excellent place the people very friendly
Posted on Google Google
Samuel profile picture
Samuel
6 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I visited the clinic last week to have a tooth stuck back in..long story! I was met with kindness, expertise, and the most welcoming environment. Everyone who works at Southland Dental knows the industry, and how to make a client feel special in their space. I could not recommend this clinic more for whatever work you may need done; I can assure you’ll be given the most perfect experience!
Posted on Google Google
Veronica Munoz profile picture
Veronica Munoz
6 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I forgot the girl’s name who did my cleaning but she was so sweet and professional & really took her time explaining things to me. I had no idea I was flossing wrong… It was nice to actually learn the right way.
Posted on Google Google
Jojo Hernandez profile picture
Jojo Hernandez
6 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
The service here is outstanding they are clean and welcoming Ana, Daisy, Johanna, are very friendly the highly skilled Dr's exceeded my expectations. I couldn't be happier with my experience Fidel and Ghulam were just as incredible so kind and attentive and professional. The whole visit was smooth stress-free and honestly one of the best dental experience I've ever had. I had invisalign done and let me tell you
Posted on Google Google
roman butchi profile picture
roman butchi
6 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
My wife and I love coming to Southland Dental Care it is the best place to come in I had a Root Canal and a crown with Dr. Abaian it was a very smooth ride I had no pain no discomfort he was very informative I would always recommend coming to see Dr. Abaian the staff Ana and Joana are very welcoming and Fidel is very attentive 5 stars
Posted on Google Google
Michael Osorio profile picture
Michael Osorio
11 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Came to Southland Dental Care looking for a dental office as I was experiencing pain Dr. Hanookai as amazing explaining that I needed to have my wisdom teeth removed and also a deep cleaning the team was very welcoming and friendly highly recommend coming to Southland Dental Care Anna explained my co-payments and was very informative when it came to the payment plans definitely 5 stars ⭐️
Posted on Google Google
Erik Ortiz profile picture
Erik Ortiz
11 days ago
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
It's was a great experience coming here. Everyone was helpful and kind to. Highly recommend coming here. This is a great place to go.
Yelp reviews
Posted on Yelp Yelp
Yazmina G. profile picture
Yazmina G.
2 days ago
Yelp star 1Yelp star 2Yelp star 3Yelp star 4Yelp star 5Verified
My experience at Southland Dental has been wonderful so far. I was referred by my Ortho for a check-up on my gum recession. I had an appointment scheduled with Dr Hanookai. From the offset, the staff were just so lovely. I had some anxiety when i initially called in, but even just speaking to Joanna over the phone, i felt assured. Joanna and Ana were so helpful and so sweet when I visited. (Thank you both for answering all my questions) Dr Hanookai was so great too, she explained exactly what i needed and i felt as comfortable as can be during the procedure. Im still healing and eventhough i had a concern prior to my next visit, they were able to have me stop by same day to ensure i was healing appropriately. Thank you for providing this experience, looking forward to seeing the final result!
Posted on Yelp Yelp
Kay I. profile picture
Kay I.
6 days ago
Yelp star 1Yelp star 2Yelp star 3Yelp star 4Yelp star 5Verified
The best dental office! Every visit is such a pleasure. I drive over an hour to come get my dental work here and it worth every minute. The doctors and staff are absolutely amazing. They are so helpful and work with your budget, and they are so understanding. I have dental anxiety and every time they are so help and understanding.
Posted on Yelp Yelp
Roman B. profile picture
Roman B.
7 days ago
Yelp star 1Yelp star 2Yelp star 3Yelp star 4Yelp star 5Verified
My wife and I love coming to Southland Dental Care it is the best place to come in I had a Root Canal and a crown with Dr. Abaian it was a very smooth ride I had no pain no discomfort he was very informative I would always recommend coming to see Dr. Abaian the staff Ana and Joana are very welcoming and Fidel is very attentive 5 stars
Posted on Yelp Yelp
Paula L. profile picture
Paula L.
12 days ago
Yelp star 1Yelp star 2Yelp star 3Yelp star 4Yelp star 5Verified
The staff is absolutely delightful. For someone who hates going to the dentist, the male dental assistants are warm & caring. I had an implant, Dr. Hanookai worked diligently and quickly, making this process as painless as possible.
Posted on Yelp Yelp
Travis P. profile picture
Travis P.
55 days ago
Yelp star 1Yelp star 2Yelp star 3Yelp star 4Yelp star 5Verified
Whenever I go here I see Dr. Azita and she is the most thorough and thoughtful dentist I've ever been to. When i first came here my gums were a mess, borderline gingivitis and she did more than clean she educated me. Every question I asked she answered and gave me detailed step by step instructions on how to properly care for my teeth. I followed her advice and my teeth/gums are the healthiest they've ever been. Appointments are easy cleanings as opposed to damage control. 10/10 Recommended Dr. Azita. Come with a desire to improve your dental health and you'll leave with the skills to do so.
Posted on Yelp Yelp
Stephanie B. profile picture
Stephanie B.
61 days ago
Yelp star 1Yelp star 2Yelp star 3Yelp star 4Yelp star 5Verified
I had a lovely experience here. Great staff and I got a deep cleaning by the amazing Josephine. I'll definitely be back.
Posted on Yelp Yelp
Claudia C. profile picture
Claudia C.
63 days ago
Yelp star 1Yelp star 2Yelp star 3Yelp star 4Yelp star 5Verified
My husband and i came here looking for a better dental experience we were greeted with warmth and respect right away. Joana took the time on the phone to not. Only schedule hour applaintment but to hear our concerns. Ghulam took our x-rays and Dr. Hanookai did our exam she was so kind patient-center best experience. Nichole our dental gygenist is the absolute best not only did she do a fantastic job on our cleaning but she treated us like people not like a dollar figure offer thoughtful and practical advice to protect our dental health. No overcharging through work. I never thought i'd look forward to visiting the dentist this is the place to go. The care they provide inspires me as a patient to take better care of our dental health. Words can't express how thankful I am for the welcoming experience.
Posted on Yelp Yelp
Mohamad F. profile picture
Mohamad F.
64 days ago
Yelp star 1Yelp star 2Yelp star 3Yelp star 4Yelp star 5Verified
I had my teeth extracted and did all on 6 I was honestly very nervous but Dr. Hanookai and Dr. Abaian made the whole experience smooth and stress free. They explained everything clearly. The first day I had all of my measurements and Ana was able to help me with the financials. The next day I came in for my surgery and I left the office with teeth the whole experience was wonderful they were very gentle and made sure I felt comfortable throughout the procedures I am very happy with the care I received and highly recommend Southland Dental Care for anyone that needs any dental care this is the place to go.
Posted on Yelp Yelp
Tallulah B. profile picture
Tallulah B.
64 days ago
Yelp star 1Yelp star 2Yelp star 3Yelp star 4Yelp star 5Verified
I've been coming here for years! Amazing dentists and hygienists. They spend a lot of time with each patient and scheduling is always easy. Clean office with a nice ambiance. :)
Posted on Yelp Yelp
Dianna M. profile picture
Dianna M.
75 days ago
Yelp star 1Yelp star 2Yelp star 3Yelp star 4Yelp star 5Verified
This has been so great visit they treat patients with the most respect and welcoming Nichole was my hygienist and she did an AMAZING job Dr. Hanookai evaluated my gums as she is a Periodontist this place is by far the best dental office.
Patient video testimonials
Questions

Common questions

Have a question about receding gums? Call the office at (818) 788-8787.

The short answer

Gum grafting is treatment for receding gums that replaces lost tissue and, where the tooth allows, covers the exposed root. Exposed roots are softer than enamel and more prone to sensitivity, decay and wear, and recession can follow gum disease, aggressive brushing, grinding, thin tissue or orthodontic tooth movement. The technique depends on how much tissue is missing and how many teeth are affected, and the aim is gum tissue that is more resistant to further recession.

No. Gum tissue that has receded does not regrow, so treatment is needed to restore it.

Treatment is done under local anesthetic. Where tissue is taken from the palate, that area may be sore for several days. Donor tissue and the pinhole technique avoid a second site.

Several neighboring teeth can often be treated in one visit. Dr. Hanookai will recommend an approach at your consultation.

Thicker tissue is more resistant to recession. Addressing the cause, such as brushing technique or grinding, helps the result last.