Receding Gums Treatments
It can be surprising if you notice your teeth starting to appear longer than you remember. In many cases, this is due to receding gums. This is caused by the gums detaching from the teeth. Various things can contribute to receding gums, but gum disease is typically the underlying issue. While gum disease cannot actually be cured, it can be controlled with good oral hygiene combined with other treatments.
Gum Health
Healthy gums are usually full and light pink in color. This can vary based on the patient's skin tone and ethnicity. The gums should fit snugly around the teeth, without large spaces. Gum recession can cause the gums to become red, swollen, and inflamed. The gum tissue may also be uneven.
Recession of the gums typically occurs over a long period of time and may not be noticeable at first. The issue often goes unnoticed until there is pain or visible changes in the gums. Call your dentist right away if you suspect your gums are starting to recede. In order to prevent serious issues, prompt treatment is vital.
Signs and Symptoms
Below is a summary of common signs and symptoms associated with receding gums:
- Changes in the shape or appearance of the gum tissue surrounding the teeth
- A foul taste in the mouth or chronically bad breath
- Gums that bleed, are red, or swollen
- Teeth that are loose or wiggly
Over time, it is possible for patients to notice a change in their bite. In addition, receding gums can cause tenderness and pain. Receding gums are also at an increased risk for bacteria growth. In order to stop the progression of gum disease and gum recession, it is critical to practice good oral hygiene. A good oral hygiene regimen includes brushing the teeth at least twice daily, daily flossing, and regular visits to the dentist.
Cause
While various things can cause gum recession, it is usually a side effect of gum disease. Things such as age, poor oral hygiene, medications, and medical conditions can also contribute to the issue. Aggressive brushing of the teeth with excessive force can also damage the gums and result in recession. In order to safely brush your teeth, be sure to use gentle pressure with a soft-bristle or electric toothbrush. It is also important to brush twice each day for at least two minutes. Brushing should be completed when patients are done eating for the day.
Treatment Options
The effects of receding gums cannot be reversed, as the gum tissue does not grow back. Fortunately, dental professionals are trained to prevent the problem from becoming worse. Treatment options vary depending on how severe the recession is. Minor cases of gum recession due to poor oral hygiene practices or aggressive brushing can often be improved with changes in oral hygiene practices.
More severe cases of gum recession often require patients to receive a deep cleaning. A deep cleaning may also be called scaling and root planing. This treatment involves the removal of plaque and tartar from below the gums and in areas that cannot be reached at home with routine brushing and flossing.
Advanced cases of receding gums may require surgical intervention with gum grafting. Gum grafting can effectively restore lost and damaged gum tissue. This procedure is typically completed by a periodontist or dentist who specializes in issues related to the gums. The periodontist will obtain gum tissue from another part of the patient’s mouth and place it in the area with recession.
Call the office today if you have receding gums. We can schedule an appointment to determine which type of treatment will effectively stop the issue from becoming worse. Healthy gums are an important part of good oral health and preserving your teeth.