Dr. Stephen Hutton, DMD, MS, MPH
Microsurgery, laser-assisted periodontal therapy, and implant reconstruction.
Learn More About Dr. HuttonBeautiful, Healthy Smiles Begin with Thoughtful Specialty Care
We help patients improve their gum health, restore support around their teeth, and feel more confident in their smile with care that is precise, personal, and designed to last.
Specialist Periodontal & Implant Care in La Jolla
Three board-certified periodontists practicing together in La Jolla since 1989. Drs. Nordland, Hutton, and Lofthus focus on three areas: treating gum disease and peri-implant infections, placing and restoring dental implants, and repairing gum recession with microsurgical grafting. The practice's emphasis on minimally invasive technique means most patients return to normal activities within 48 hours.
Most patients arrive on referral from their general dentist for a specific problem: a failing implant, advanced gum disease, exposed roots, or a tooth that needs replacement. Every consultation begins with a clinical exam and a 3D cone-beam CT scan when indicated, followed by a clear discussion of treatment options, costs, and expected outcomes before any decision is made.
Meet Our Specialists
Three board-certified periodontists, practicing together since 1989.
Dr. Peter Nordland, DMD, MS
Microsurgical techniques, periodontal plastic procedures, gum surgery, and implant procedures.
Learn More About Dr. NordlandDr. John Lofthus, DDS, MS
Periodontal regeneration, esthetic soft tissue surgery, and implant dentistry.
Learn More About Dr. LofthusHow We Work
Periodontal surgery decisions are personal, and the right treatment plan depends on more than the X-rays alone. Each consultation includes a clinical exam, a 3D cone-beam CT scan when needed, and time to walk through what we found, what the options are, and which one fits your situation best.
The work is built on four principles:
Esthetic Soft Tissue Enhancement
Creating balanced, natural gum aesthetics with minimally invasive techniques.
Advanced Implant & Reconstructive Surgery
Rebuilding form and function with current implant techniques and regenerative bone grafting.
Digital Precision & Innovation
Using the latest in digital planning, guided surgery, and laser-assisted treatments for optimal outcomes.
Personalized, Compassionate Care
Every patient is different, and we take the time to build a treatment plan that matches their goals and comfort.
Services We Offer
At Oral Plastic Surgery, we offer a comprehensive range of specialized procedures designed to restore function, enhance aesthetics, and improve overall oral health. Our services include:
Periodontal Health
Expert diagnosis and treatment of gum disease using minimally invasive techniques,from early prevention to advanced periodontitis care.
Bone & Tissue Grafting
Advanced regenerative procedures that rebuild bone volume and restore gum tissue,the critical foundation for implants and long-term oral health.
Implants & Restoration
Precision-guided dental implant placement and full-arch restoration using 3D imaging, digital planning, and biologic integration techniques.
Advanced Treatment
Complex full-mouth rehabilitation, All-on-X procedures, and interdisciplinary treatment planning for patients who need comprehensive reconstruction.
Jawbone Health
Diagnosis and treatment of jawbone conditions affecting implant success, facial structure, and long-term oral health.
Prophylaxis (Teeth Cleaning)
Professional dental prophylaxis removes plaque and tartar buildup to halt gum disease progression and keep your smile healthy.
Scaling & Root Planing
Scaling and root planing is a thorough, non-surgical deep cleaning that removes bacterial deposits from beneath the gum line to stop periodontal disease.
Bone Grafting
Major and minor bone grafting procedures rebuild jawbone volume lost to disease, extraction, or injury,restoring the structure needed for dental implants and a healthy bite.
Gum Disease Laser Therapy
Laser therapy for periodontal disease offers precise, minimally invasive treatment with less bleeding, faster healing, and reduced post-operative discomfort.
Bite Adjustment
Bite therapy corrects destructive bite patterns that cause tooth wear, loosening, and jaw joint damage,preserving your teeth and restoring comfortable function.
Gum Grafting
Gum grafting reconstructs receded gum tissue, covering exposed roots, eliminating sensitivity, and protecting teeth from further recession and decay.
Guided Bone & Tissue Regeneration
Guided bone and tissue regeneration uses surgical membranes and biologics to stimulate the regrowth of bone and connective tissue lost to periodontal disease.
Cosmetic Periodontal Surgery
Cosmetic periodontal procedures reshape the gum line, cover exposed roots, and restore lost jaw contours,giving your smile the proportions and framing it deserves.
Oral Cancer Exam
Annual oral cancer screenings by our specialists can detect pathologic changes at the earliest, most treatable stage,using advanced laser technology and clinical expertise.
What to Expect
A typical surgical case has four stages, from first consultation through the 3-month follow-up.
1
Diagnostic Consultation
Clinical exam, periodontal probing, and a 3D cone-beam CT scan when indicated.
2
Written Treatment Plan
Itemized costs, expected timelines, and treatment alternatives before anything is scheduled.
3
Minimally Invasive Surgery
Microsurgical technique under high magnification. Sedation options from local anesthesia to IV.
4
Scheduled Follow-Up
Recheck visits at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, and 3 months on every surgical case.
What Patients Are Saying
Reviews collected from Google, Healthgrades, and Yelp, with patient permission for use on this site.
★★★★★
A smile I'm proud to share.
"Before the surgery, I always had a closed-mouth smile, now I'm happy to let everyone see it. Dr. Nordland is my hero."
★★★★★ 
He is a genius!
"Since having an extraction by another periodontist 2 months ago, I have had excruciating jaw pain…Dr. Hutton was the only person to determine my implant was going bad. He removed it, and pain is resolving."
★★★★★
Perfection in every detail.
"You would never know I've had grafts because Dr. Nordland is a perfectionist. Now I can enjoy having people see my teeth."
★★★★★
Trusted care, generation after generation.
"Dr. Lofthus has taken care of my family and patients for many years. He is conscientious, talented and best of all, has a great chair-side manner. His team makes sure you are comfortable and informed on any treatment you may need. I highly recommend him."
★★★★★ 
100% recommend Dr. Hutton for oral surgery.
"He really takes care of you and cares how you feel…He's extremely skillful as well. He and his team went above and beyond… I would definitely recommend Dr Hutton without reservation."
★★★★★ 
A truly radiant transformation.
"Before, I wasn't unhappy with my smile, but now I'm completely ecstatic. I love it. I have a beautiful smile and I'm thrilled."
★★★★★
Confidence in every visit.
"You know you are in good hands with Dr. Lofthus and his entire staff and operation."
★★★★★
Exceptional skill. Exceptional results.
"Excellent staff, excellent facility. Dr. Lofthus technically excellent. Couldn't be happier with care and results."
Frequently Asked Questions
What is esthetic oral plastic surgery?
Esthetic oral plastic surgery focuses on enhancing the appearance and function of the gums and supporting tissues.
It includes procedures like gum grafting, crown lengthening, and soft tissue contouring to create a healthy, natural-looking smile.
How do I know if I need gum or soft tissue surgery?
If you experience gum recession, excessive gum tissue, or uneven gum lines that affect your smile or oral health, a consultation with our specialists can determine the best course of treatment.
Are oral plastic surgery procedures painful?
Our procedures are designed to be minimally invasive and comfortable. We offer sedation options and use advanced microsurgical techniques to minimize discomfort and accelerate healing.
How long is the recovery process?
Recovery times vary depending on the procedure, but most patients experience mild discomfort for a few days. We provide detailed aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth healing process.
Do you offer financing or payment plans?
Yes. We offer flexible financing options and accept multiple forms of payment to make treatment accessible for our patients.
How do I schedule a consultation?
You can book an appointment online or call our office directly. Our team is happy to answer any additional questions you may have.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you are ready to improve your smile, protect your oral health, or explore your treatment options, our team is here to help you get started.
Take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile. Book a Pre-Consultation Call and receive expert esthetic oral surgery care.