Questions to Ask Your Dentist About Receding Gums

Questions to Ask Your Dentist About Receding Gums from Rafael E. Cordero, DDS PA in Palm Beach Gardens, FLReceding gums leads to gum tissues pulling back from teeth roots, making your teeth appear abnormally large. Teeth roots are protected from acids made by oral bacteria by the gum tissues that cover them, so gum recession leaves them vulnerable to these acids, increasing their risk of decay.

Receding gums can be caused by several things, including periodontal disease, poor brushing and flossing habits, injuries to gum tissues, using a hard toothbrush, and genetics. Regardless of the cause, exposed teeth roots can lead to various problems, like long-looking teeth and teeth falling out of the mouth.

Questions to ask a dentist about receding gums

Patients may notice gum tissues pulling back from the roots of some of their teeth. Here are the answers to questions that they might have:

1. What is periodontal disease?

Periodontal disease is an infection of gum tissues. It is caused by the same bacteria that create acids that decay teeth. These bacteria form plaque, a sticky film that contains acids. Plaque accumulates on teeth, and it hardens into tartar if left there for a few days. Tartar accumulates at the base of teeth and can make its way into gum pockets, infecting the tissues there. The immune system sends antibodies to the area to combat the infection, leading to the inflammation that characterizes gum disease.

Gum disease has two main stages. Gingivitis is the first stage and comes with symptoms like tender gums, gum recession, and gums that bleed easily. It can be reversed with a renewed commitment to dental hygiene and teeth cleanings to eliminate tartar deposits.

Periodontitis is the second stage of gum disease, and there is no way to reverse it. A dentist can help slow down the infection's progression with medication and treatments like root scaling and planing, gum grafts, and bone grafts. Left untreated, periodontitis can lead to teeth falling out of the mouth. It is the leading cause of adult tooth loss.

2. What are the symptoms of gum disease?

Gum disease can be challenging to detect because symptoms are not always noticeable during the early stages. Symptoms of gum disease include swollen gums, discolored gums, bleeding gums, gum recession, loose teeth, bad breath, pus coming from the base of teeth, teeth sensitivity, spaces forming between teeth, and tooth loss.

3. What are the risks of leaving periodontal disease untreated?

Failing to get appropriate treatments for gum disease can lead to the inability to reverse the condition. Once gum disease advances to periodontitis, it causes severe damage to the bone and tissue structures that hold the teeth in place. It can lead to teeth falling out of the mouth and permanent changes to these structures. Periodontal disease has been linked to serious health issues like diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and cardiovascular disease.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Gum Disease in Palm Beach Gardens, FL

Get treatment for gum disease

Are you noticing symptoms of gum disease, like receding gums? Call or visit our Palm Beach Gardens clinic to set up an appointment with our dentist.

Request an appointment or call Rafael E. Cordero, DDS PA at 561-763-9221 for an appointment in our Palm Beach Gardens office.

Recent Posts

When To Visit A Periodontist For Gum Recession

Concerned about gum recession? Read on to learn more. If your smile looks different in the mirror recently, you might want to see a periodontist. You may notice your tooth roots are showing more, your teeth seem longer, or your gums are receding. Perhaps your gums are becoming more tender and your teeth are more…

When To Seek Gum Disease Treatment From A Periodontist

Gum disease treatment is necessary to prevent your symptoms from worsening. Your periodontist will assess your gums first and then discuss the treatment options with you. Knowing when to see this dental care provider can help you make informed decisions regarding your procedures. Here are the details on when to see this dentist for gum…

Visit A Periodontist For Gum Recession Treatment

A gum recession treatment can help you regain your smile and dental health. Receding gums can make you conscious about the way you look. It can also cause dental instability and sensitivity. Seeing a periodontist for your gum recession treatment can help you get the results you need.A general dental exam can spot gum recession.…

Recent Posts

Why Choose Implant Supported Dentures? Top Benefits Explained

Why Choose Implant Supported Dentures? Top Benefits Explained

More and more people are turning to implant supported dentures for full and partial tooth replacement. This option's continued rise in popularity is due to its impressive success rate and other key benefits. If you are exploring your tooth replacement options, there are unique advantages to choosing implant supported dentures.As the name suggests, implant supported…

Expert Periodontist Services For Healthy Gums And Beautiful Smiles

Expert Periodontist Services For Healthy Gums And Beautiful Smiles

People who are seeking healthy gums but are dealing with challenges with gingivitis can see an expert periodontist, a dental professional who has studied the structures that support the teeth. These include the gums, the jawbone itself, and the ligaments that help hold the teeth in place.Periodontists are trained dentists who focus their attention on…