Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue around the teeth gets detached from the tooth, exposing the root surface leading to loss of bone height. This leads to the formation of gaps between the tooth and gums called pockets. Harmful bacteria can quickly accumulate in these pockets. Gum recession, if not treated, can cause periodontal disease leading to loss of your tooth.
Gum recession is a common dental problem; it affects 4% to 12% of people, often going unnoticed until it turns severe. This is because the recession of gum tissues is a gradual process and occurs over a period of time. Initially, you will experience sensitivity in your teeth, and some teeth may appear longer than usual. You can also feel a notch near the gum margins.
If ignored, gum recession can lead to major periodontal issues. So you must consult your dentist if you feel your gums are receding—the earlier the treatment starts, the better the prognosis of the treatment.
Want Us To Call You? Call Us Now To BookGum recession is more common in older adults as gums become loose with age. However, there may be several causes behind the recession of gums, of which may be:
Your dentist will assess the severity of the gum recession and decide on the treatment plan. If an infection is found in the gums by your dentist, you will be prescribed antibiotics to treat it. Mild recession can be treated by scaling and root planing, where the plaque over and below the gum margins are removed to make the root surface smooth. This does not allow the disease-causing bacteria to attach to the tooth and cause infection.
In case of severe infection, scaling and root planing procedures may not be enough to treat the gum recession. In such cases, gum surgery may be needed to repair the defect caused by the recession.
This procedure is generally performed by a periodontist or dentist specializing in treating various gum diseases.
Your dentist will determine the type of procedure to be used based on your specific needs.
Apart from halting the progress of gum disease and loss of bone, gum surgery can diminish tooth sensitivity and shield the roots of your teeth from root decay. This procedure also results in a more uniform gum line, improving your smile line and enhancing the appearance of your teeth.
Taking good care of your oral hygiene is the best way to prevent your gums from receding. Proper brushing your teeth and flossing every day can save you a lot of trouble. It is also important to remain under regular follow-up with your dentist twice a year so that your dentist can identify early signs of gum recession if any. Use a toothbrush with soft bristles and follow the proper brushing techniques. Avoid brushing your teeth overzealously. In case of maligned teeth, you must consult an orthodontist and seek treatment for the same. If you have a grinding or clenching habit, consult your doctor as it may not only harm your gums but can also wear away your teeth’ surfaces. Other ways to prevent recession are:
By taking good care of your teeth, you can have a healthy smile forever. If you feel you have receding gums, you can book an appointment with Dr. Amy Khajavi. Dr. Khajavi will consult with you to discuss your treatment options.
If you're interested in learning more about gum recession, you can call our office at All Natural Dentistry. We are always here to address your queries.
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