Gum Recession

Do you ever notice your teeth looking longer than usual? Do you feel sensitivity in your gums when eating cold or hot foods? If so, you might be experiencing a gum recession. Gum recession is a common dental problem that affects many people around the world.

What is Gum recession?

Gum recession is a dental condition where the gums that surround the teeth start to pull back or wear down, causing more of the tooth or even its root to become exposed. This can lead to sensitivity in your teeth and make them look longer than usual.

The first sign of gum recession is usually bleeding gums when brushing or flossing. As this condition progresses, other symptoms may include bad breath, loose teeth, and pain while chewing.

There are different types of gum recession, depending on how severe they are. Mild cases might not need any treatment at all, while others could require surgery.

It's important to note that Gum recession can happen at any age but it's more common among older adults. Certain lifestyle habits, such as smoking and poor oral hygiene, can increase your risk of developing this condition.

If you suspect that you have gum recession, it's essential to see a dentist immediately for diagnosis and appropriate treatment options before it gets worse!

Causes of Gum Recession

Gum recession is a common dental problem that occurs when the gum tissue around your teeth pulls back, exposing more of the tooth or its root. There are various reasons why this can happen, and some of them are preventable.

• The first cause of gum recession is poor oral hygiene. Failure to brush and floss regularly leads to plaque buildup on your teeth. This plaque eventually hardens into tartar and can only be removed by a dentist. Tartar buildup irritates gums, leading to inflammation which often results in gum recession.
• Another factor that may contribute to receding gums is age. As we grow older, our gums start to wear down due to natural wear and tear over time.
• Genetics also play a role in whether you will experience gum recession or not. Some people have thinner gum tissues that are prone to recede, while others don't.
• Aggressive brushing techniques can also cause trauma that leads to recessed gums as well as using tobacco products such as cigarettes which damage cells within the mouth, ultimately leading to gum disease.

It's important for individuals who notice any signs of receding gums, such as sensitivity or longer-looking teeth than usual, should visit their dentist immediately before things worsen.

Treatment for Gum recession

If you are experiencing gum recession, there are several treatment options available. The best option for you will depend on the severity of your case and the underlying cause.

Some possible treatments include:

• Scaling and root planing: This is a deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar buildup from below the gum line. It can help to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
• Gum graft surgery: In this procedure, tissue is taken from another area of your mouth or a donor source and attached to the affected area to restore lost gum tissue.
• Pinhole surgical technique: This relatively new method involves making small holes in the gums and using special tools to stretch the existing gum tissue over the exposed roots.
• Antibiotics: If an infection is causing your gum recession, antibiotics may be prescribed to clear it up.

In addition to these treatments, practicing good oral hygiene habits such as brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using an antiseptic mouthwash can help prevent further damage to your gums.

It's important to note that addressing any underlying health issues, such as diabetes or heart disease, may also be necessary for the successful treatment of gum recession. Be sure to consult with your dentist or periodontist for personalized recommendations based on your individual needs.

FAQ About Gum recession

• Can gum recession be prevented?

Yes, it can be prevented by proper oral hygiene practices such as brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily. Avoid using tobacco products, eat a well-balanced diet, and visit your dentist regularly for checkups.

• Is gum recession reversible?

If detected early enough, gum recession can be treated and reversed through some dental procedures such as scaling and root planing or tissue grafts.

• What happens if I don't treat my gum recession?

Untreated gum recession can lead to serious dental problems like periodontitis which causes bone loss around the teeth leading to loose teeth that may need extraction.

• How long does treatment take for gum recession?

The duration of treatment depends on the severity of the condition. It could take one or several visits to your dentist before full recovery is achieved.

Gum recession is a common dental problem that should not be ignored but rather addressed promptly to prevent further complications from arising. With good oral hygiene habits and regular visits to your dentist, you can prevent this condition from occurring altogether!

If you want to learn more, visit Lutke Dental at 5045 Lorimar Dr #110, Plano, TX 75093, or call (972) 378-4141 to schedule an appointment.