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.
The diagnosis
A general dental exam can spot gum recession. The dentist will measure the level of recession on every tooth with the use of a periodontal probe. Measuring periodontal pockets will also be part of the exam. This will determine the degree of bone loss in the receding gums. The pockets will be about 4 millimeters deep if the patient has gingivitis. They will measure at least 5 millimeters if the patient develops periodontal disease.
Non-surgical treatments
Studies show that gums cannot grow back. Even so, preventing gum recession from worsening is still possible. The dentist can cover and protect the exposed roots with cementum. Numbing agents can decrease discomfort or pain. The patient can also use desensitizing toothpaste that can help reduce dental sensitivity even during dental cleanings. Here are other methods of gum recession treatment to consider:
- Dental bonding can hide the areas where gum recession is present. This is possible with tooth-colored resin material. The covering protects the root. It allows one to become more comfortable during dental functions.
- Teeth-straightening systems can correct dental misalignments. Rotated, crooked, or tipped teeth can lead to gum recession. Straightening the affected teeth can correct the gum margin over time.
- Applying topical antibiotics is another non-invasive gum recession treatment to think about. The dentist will insert an antibiotic under the gums. This can help treat the receding gum tissue.
Proper oral care is also a good gum recession treatment. Changing the toothbrush every three months or earlier can maintain an efficient brushing technique. Seeing the dentist for regular dental cleanings can prevent receding gums from worsening. Stay away from abrasive toothpaste because it can make things worse.
Gum surgery
This is an invasive gum recession treatment. Studies show that it is the most lasting and predictable option for treating receding gums. The procedure involves placing a gum graft over areas with missing gum tissue. Gum tissue can come from the roof of the patient’s mouth. It can also come from sterilized gum tissue from another person.
The dentist will place the tissue over the dental root. Stitching it in place will come next once it is in the proper position. There are many types of gum grafting surgeries. The dentist will help determine the right one for the patient’s situation.
Recovering from this gum recession treatment will depend on many factors. What type of grafting procedure the dentist has used is one of them. Other factors are the source of the gum graft and the number of treated teeth. Most patients feel better after a couple of weeks. The patient must follow the aftercare instructions to recover fully.
Pinhole surgical technique
This is a new gum recession treatment for patients with mild to moderate cases. It is less invasive. The dentist will make a minute hole in the gums above the unprotected tooth root. A tool will enter the hole and part the gum tissue from the tooth. It will then reposition and stretch the tissue back to the exposed dental root.
Scaling and root planing
The dentist may recommend this gum recession treatment as a primary step. This procedure allows the dentist to remove tartar and plaque from underneath the gumline. It leaves the dental roots smooth. This allows the gum tissue to reattach to the affected teeth.
Preventing gum recession
Research shows that this condition is not preventable. People born with thin gum tissue are more susceptible to gum recession than others. Reducing one’s risk of gum infection is possible by maintaining good oral care. Here are some practices to consider:
- Floss once a day
- Brush teeth for two minutes every day
- Do not consume tobacco
- Use an antimicrobial mouthwash two times a day
- Use a toothbrush with soft bristles
- Follow the dentist’s schedule for professional dental cleanings
- Remember to go to the dentist if signs of gum recession develop
Why gum recession treatment is important
Gum tissue is a protective shield around the teeth. Receding gums is often the result of gum infection or other factors. The dentist will find the source of the gum recession first. Resolving it will follow.
Worn-out gums expose dental roots. This results in sensitivity and even tooth loss. Gum recession treatment is important in maintaining one’s dental health. It can also prevent time-consuming and expensive treatments later on.
You periodontist can provide the right gum recession treatment to give you a new smile
Research reveals that gum tissue is important in keeping teeth in place. Gums also protect dental roots against bacteria and the elements. Receding gums can affect your smile and your dental function. This condition also puts you at risk for infections and tooth loss. Working with your periodontist can provide the necessary treatment to correct the situation.
Request an appointment here: https://corderoperiodontics.com or call Rafael E. Cordero, DDS PA at (561) 763-9221 for an appointment in our Palm Beach Gardens office.
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