Signs of Gum Recession
Gum recession can be a subtle process that goes unnoticed for some time, but it can lead to significant aesthetic changes such as shrinking gums and exposed tooth roots. Other common signs of gum recession include bad breath, bleeding after brushing or flossing, loose teeth, pain at the gum line, and red, swollen gums. Some patients may also experience sensitivity to cold and heat due to the exposed tooth roots and may be concerned about the appearance of their teeth and the possibility of losing them.
Causes of Gum Recession
There are many factors that can contribute to gum recession, including aggressive tooth brushing, body piercing, clenching or grinding teeth, crooked teeth or a misaligned bite, hormonal changes, insufficient dental care, periodontal disease, and tobacco use. Genetics may also play a role, as some people may be more prone to weak, thin gums due to inherited traits. Gum recession may also occur on only one side of the mouth due to plaque concentration in a particular area, due to neglecting oral hygiene on that side or a misaligned bite that causes more wear and tear. It is also possible for gum recession to affect only one tooth due to physical trauma or similar factors.
“Several different factors can cause a person’s gums to recede, regardless of the state of their oral hygiene.”
Treating Gum Recession
There are several gum recession treatments available in Tonawanda, depending on the severity of the condition. Some mild cases may not require treatment, but for more severe cases, options include composite restoration, desensitizing agents, varnishes, and dentin bonding agents, orthodontics, pink porcelain or composite, removable gum veneers, and surgery. Composite restoration involves the use of natural-looking, tooth-colored composite resins to cover the surface of the tooth root and close any gaps between the teeth. Desensitizing agents, varnishes, and dentin bonding agents may help reduce sensitivity in the exposed tooth root. Orthodontics involves the use of braces to move a tooth slowly over time and correct the margin of the gum. Pink porcelain or composite that matches the color of the gums can be applied to the gaps to reduce the appearance of receded gums, and removable gum veneers made of acrylic or silicone can be applied in the same way. In more severe cases, surgery, usually a gum graft, may be the most effective gum recession treatment our Tonawanda team can offer.
“Some cases of gum recession are mild enough not to need treatment.”
Preventing Gum Recession
The best gum recession prevention methods our Tonawanda dentists recommend is to practice good oral hygiene and visit the dentist regularly. This means brushing teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush at least twice a day and flossing at least once a day, and visiting the dentist at least twice a year. At-risk patients may need more frequent visits, and a dentist who notices signs of gum recession may want to monitor the condition closely to ensure it doesn’t worsen. You can also ask your dentist for guidance on proper brushing techniques to avoid brushing too aggressively. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a well-balanced diet and not smoking, can greatly reduce the risk of gum recession.
Ignoring gum recession can be dangerous, as exposed tooth roots are prone to decay and may require costly and painful procedures. Teeth may become more sensitive, and the appearance of the smile may be affected. It is also possible that what appears to be gum recession is actually worsening gum disease that has gone undetected.
Risk Factors for Gum Recession
There are several factors that may increase a person’s risk of gum recession, including age (with almost 90% of people over 65 reporting a receding gum in at least one tooth), smoking or using tobacco products, certain genetic conditions like thin or weak gums, and diabetes (which may reduce blood supply to the gums). These risk factors may make it more likely for a person to develop gum recession. It is important to be aware of these risk factors and take steps to protect your gums, such as practicing good oral hygiene and not smoking or using tobacco products. If you are at higher risk for gum recession, it is especially important to visit the dentist regularly for checkups and to address any issues as soon as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is gum recession correlated with bone loss?
A. Yes. The bone around the tooth dissolves when the gum recedes. It is crucial to address gum recession right away to prevent further bone loss.
Some teeth are easier to treat with gum grafting than others. Teeth with long, exposed roots, fillings, or notches can be difficult to cover, as can teeth with lost bone between the teeth. Early treatment is key for optimum results. Our team can help go over the options with you.
Anything that causes excess wear and tear on the gums and jaw can contribute to gum recession. Contact us if you are unsure if your dentures are fitting correctly.
Our team will start with reviewing your medical history to identify any factors that could be causing or aggravating your symptoms. Then, you will undergo an examination to look for any plaque and tartar buildup, along with any easy bleeding. The dentist will then measure the pocket depth of the groove between your gums and teeth. If necessary, our team will take X-rays to check for any bone loss.
Yes. Gum recession involves the loss of attached tissue, which protects the tooth and gums from any foreign materials that can infect the bone. Losing the attached tissue leads to a significant loss of bone support for the tooth.