Gingival recession, another name for receding gums, is a common dental condition in which the gum tissue around teeth deteriorates or pulls back, exposing more of the tooth or its base. Dangerous “pockets” between teeth and gum lines develop as gums recede, providing the ideal conditions for the growth of germs that cause illness. This article will walk you through the ways of fixing receding gums; keep reading.
Causes of Gum Recession
It is crucial to comprehend the underlying reasons for effective treatment and prevention. Gum recession is usually caused by several factors:
- Periodontal Disease: Gum disease is the most common cause, accounting for 70% of cases. It is caused by bacterial infection and destroys gum tissue and underlying bone.There are two primary phases of gum disease:
Gingivitis: Early-stage gingivitis is characterized by inflamed, bleeding gums
Periodontitis: Advanced stage where gums pull away from teeth - Aggressive Oral Hygiene: Over time, gum tissue can be literally worn away by excessive brushing (particularly with hard-bristled brushes) or with incorrect flossing techniques.
- Hereditary Propensity: Regardless of their dental hygiene practices, some people are predisposed to recession because of their inherently thinner, more delicate gum tissue.
- Hormonal Changes: Gums are more susceptible to recession during changes that occur during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause.
- Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Gums that are subjected to extreme strain from constant clenching or grinding eventually retreat.
- Misaligned Teeth: Gum pressure is unequal when teeth are crooked or the bite is not aligned correctly.
- Tobacco Use: Smoking or chewing tobacco dramatically raises the risk of recession by decreasing gum blood flow.
Dental Treatment Options to Treat Receding Gums
These are the treatment options that can help you fix your receding gums:
Scaling and Root Planing
Gum disease in its early stages is best treated with this non-surgical technique. Both above and below the gum line, plaque and tartar deposits will be meticulously removed by your dentist or hygienist throughout the procedure. The gums are then assisted in reattaching to the teeth by smoothing (planing) the root surfaces.
Surgery for Gum Grafting
The most reliable treatment for moderate to severe recession is gum graft surgery. Grafts can be divided into three main categories:
- Connective Tissue Grafts: Regarded as the gold standard, this treatment entails taking a little piece of tissue from the palate, or roof of the mouth, and sewing it over the portions that have receded. It has an outstanding success rate of 85–95%.
- Free gingival grafts: This technique takes tissue straight from the palate’s surface rather than connective tissue.
- Pedicle Grafts: This method covers exposed roots by repositioning neighboring gum tissue, which stays partially connected.
Regenerative Techniques
Regenerative methods may be required when bone loss has resulted from gum recession. These treatments promote the regeneration of missing bone and gum tissue by using membranes, bone transplants, or tissue-stimulating proteins. Regenerative therapies, which are frequently performed in combination with grafting, help in restoring the gums’ and the underlying bone’s structure and functionality.
Orthodontic Treatment
Orthodontic therapy can be very beneficial for people whose gum recession is caused by misaligned teeth or an incorrect bite. Braces or Invisalign lessen the uneven pressure on the gums and stop further recession by progressively realigning the teeth.
Summing Up!
Even though receding gums cannot regrow on their own, there are multiple ways to preserve your smile and restore your gum line with modern dentistry. The key is early action; the earlier you address recession, the better your long-term results will be and the more therapy options you will have.
Visit our expert dentist, Dr. Omad Chaudhary, FICOI, at Enhance Dental at Heritage to consult about your receding gums. With more than seven years of experience, you can rely on him to find the solution to all your troubles. Call us at (919) 569-5719 to connect with us.