Home > About the Practice > Dr. John Lofthus
Limited spots. Early booking advised
Leading periodontal surgery expert specializing in soft tissue and implant site care, restoring balanced smiles with minimally invasive techniques.
30+ Years in Practice
Published in Journal of Periodontology
Diplomate of the American Academy of Periodontology
Faculty Member, UCLA Dentistry
Lecturer on Regeneration Techniques
Combining surgical precision, advanced periodontal expertise, and a legacy of trust in La Jolla since 1989.
Dr. John Lofthus is a respected periodontist whose name has become synonymous with precision, integrity, and thoughtful care.
For over three decades, patients in La Jolla and the surrounding communities have entrusted him with their smiles, due to his deep clinical expertise, but also because of the quiet confidence and warmth he brings to every interaction.
With a foundation in surgical excellence and scientific research, Dr. Lofthus offers a refined approach to periodontal and implant care, grounded in evidence, guided by experience, and elevated by genuine human connection.
Before opening his private practice in La Jolla in 1992, Dr. Lofthus trained at some of the nation’s top institutions, including UCLA and the Veterans Administration Medical Centers of San Francisco and West Los Angeles.
He remains committed to academic growth and professional leadership through teaching, publishing, and study club mentorship, ensuring that every treatment reflects the best of both innovation and time-tested technique.
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:
Esthetic gum contouring, rejuvenation, regeneration, gummy smile correction, and soft tissue grafting.
Dental implant placement, full-arch rehabilitation, and advanced bone grafting.
Laser-assisted therapy, non-surgical treatments, and peri-implantitis care.
Limited spots. Early booking advised
Parking is available
Mon:
Tue:
Wed:
Thu:
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10am – 4:30pm
8am – 4:30pm
8am – 3pm
7am – 3pm
7am – 12pm
Closed
Closed
Dr. Lofthus’ journey into periodontics began with a deep interest in the biological sciences and a commitment to clinical excellence.
He earned his Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences with honors from the University of Southern California, laying a strong scientific foundation for his future in dentistry.
Driven by curiosity and discipline, he pursued his dental degree at the UCLA School of Dentistry, where he graduated with honors and was recognized for exceptional performance in both academics and clinical care.
While at UCLA, Dr. Lofthus immersed himself in research within the Departments of Radiology and Periodontology.
After graduation, he was accepted into the general practice residency program at the Veterans Administration Medical Center in San Francisco.
His training there focused on periodontal and oral surgery, and included participation in studies on ridge augmentation.
His advanced specialty training in Periodontics took place at the West Los Angeles VA Medical Center and UCLA, where he served as Chief Resident.
During this time, he contributed research to the Journal of Periodontology, further solidifying his standing as a clinician who blends hands-on skill with academic rigor.
Dr. Lofthus began practicing in La Jolla in 1989 and established his private practice in 1992. His career reflects not just longevity, but a lifelong commitment to thoughtful, patient-centered care.
Dr. Lofthus offers a level of periodontal care defined by meticulous technique, clinical depth, and a commitment to innovation.
With over three decades of hands-on experience, he has developed a surgical approach that is both conservative and highly effective, prioritizing long-term health, esthetic integrity, and patient comfort.
His expertise spans the full spectrum of periodontal care and implant dentistry.
He is particularly proficient in treating complex gum disease, regenerating bone and soft tissue, and placing dental implants with precision.
Whether restoring health after years of periodontal damage or enhancing esthetics through soft tissue refinement, Dr. Lofthus brings a refined eye and steady hand to every procedure.
He has lectured on topics including guided tissue regeneration, ridge augmentation, and implant maintenance, always with the goal of equipping colleagues and patients with clarity and confidence.
Key Areas of Focus:
Dr. Lofthus’ influence extends beyond the treatment room.
A former faculty member at the UCLA School of Dentistry, he has remained committed to clinical education and professional development throughout his career.
He is a Faculty Club member at Spear Education and leads a local Spear Study Club, where he facilitates interdisciplinary case discussions and mentorship among peers.
These roles allow him to stay informed about evolving best practices and contribute to a culture of excellence in advanced dental care.
His professional affiliations include some of the most respected organizations in the field:
Through these connections, Dr. Lofthus ensures that his clinical techniques are always aligned with the latest research and highest standards of care.
Dr. Lofthus is known not only for the precision of his work but also for the calm, compassionate environment he creates.
His patient-first philosophy centers on thoughtful listening, clear education, and a shared decision-making process that prioritizes comfort and trust.
He takes the time to understand each patient’s concerns, preferences, and long-term goals, crafting customized treatment plans with a focus on minimal trauma, clear expectations, and exceptional outcomes.
Patients often describe their experience with Dr. Lofthus as one of quiet confidence. His approach is calm, careful, and deeply considerate—balancing the latest periodontal methods with a gentle, respectful touch.
What Patients Appreciate:
Whether addressing early-stage gum disease, correcting gum recession, or preparing for implant-supported restorations, Dr. Lofthus offers comprehensive care grounded in decades of surgical experience and clinical insight.
Common Conditions Treated:
Core Services Offered:
Outside the practice, Dr. Lofthus enjoys an active life with his wife, Laura, and their two sons.
A strong believer in balance and well-being, he can often be found cycling along the coast, hiking in the hills, or staying fit through regular training.
For more than thirty years, La Jolla has been not only the home of his practice but also the heart of his community.
Whether mentoring colleagues or caring for generations of families, Dr. Lofthus remains devoted to the principles that first drew him to dentistry: clarity, connection, and care that endures.
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.
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.
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.
Yes! We offer flexible financing options and accept multiple forms of payment to make treatment accessible for our patients.
You can book an appointment online or call our office directly. Our team is happy to answer any additional questions you may have.
Limited spots. Early booking advised
Parking is available
Mon:
Tue:
Wed:
Thu:
Fri:
Sat:
Sun:
10am – 4:30pm
8am – 4:30pm
8am – 3pm
7am – 3pm
7am – 12pm
Closed
Closed
Your smile is in expert hands. Whether you’re looking to enhance gum aesthetics, restore lost tissue, or explore dental implant options, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile. Schedule a consultation with one of our specialists today and experience the highest level of esthetic oral surgery care.
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