Gums are soft tissues in your oral cavity that surround the teeth. They act as a foundation and hold them in position. Any disease or infection of the gums can cause inflammation due to the bacterial invasion spreading into the deeper tissues. This makes the gums pull away from the teeth, exposing the roots. This is known as “gum recession”. It is a serious consequence of poor oral health, which may lead to tooth loss. There are a variety of treatments available depending on the severity of the condition.
Jackson Heights dental office offers a comprehensive treatment approach that prevents the worsening of the condition. The earlier the diagnosis and treatment, the better the outcome.
The main culprit behind the gum recession
Your gums may recede for a number of reasons, which may include any one of the following:
- Brushing too hard or aggressively
Overbrushing or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can be harmful to the gum tissues and can erode the enamel at the gum line.
- Dental plaque or calculus buildup
Increased plaque accumulation can lead to bacterial invasion and the release of excess toxins that can erode tooth enamel and the underlying gum tissues. This can be attributed to poor oral hygiene. If left untreated it can even progress to periodontal disease, exposing the alveolar bone.
- Excess tobacco use
Tobacco use in the form of smoking or chewing products has a devastating effect on the oral cavity.
- Systemic diseases
Medical conditions like diabetes can impair your immune system causing poor wound healing and narrowing of blood vessels.
Gum recession presents the following symptoms
Symptoms of receding gums include:
- Red, swollen, and tender gums
- Gums that bleed easily after brushing or flossing
- Exposed tooth roots
- Increased sensitivity to hot and cold due to exposure of the dentinal tubules
- Persistent gnawing pain at the gum line
- Visibly shrinking gums
- Loose teeth
- Unpleasant toothy smile since the teeth appear longer
- Bad breath (halitosis)
Receding gums treatment
Gum recession is a widely prevalent dental problem that requires early diagnosis to determine the underlying cause. This can help the dentist execute an appropriate treatment plan.
Treatment includes:
- Patient education on proper brushing technique
- Topical antibiotics to fight infection
- Scaling and root planing to eliminate excess plaque and calculus
- Dental bonding to camouflage the area of gum recession with a tooth-colored resin material
- Cosmetic surgery such as gum tissue regeneration, and gum grafting to make your smile look more aesthetically pleasing
Takeaway
Gum recession is a widely spread dental problem, which when left untreated could be a cause of tooth loss. It can wreak havoc on your oral health. Even if you do not have symptoms, it is essential to consult your dentist for evaluation. This may help to detect, and halt gingivitis before it progresses into receding gums.
