Receding Gums: How a Dentist Can Fix Gum Recession

Receding gum lines are a common but treatable dental issue. Not only can this condition cause cavities and dental sensitivity, but it can also awkwardly affect your physical appearance.

Gum recession occurs when the gum line recedes from your teeth, exposing underlying roots. Numerous things, including forceful brushing, smoking or vaping, and even heredity, can contribute to the development of this condition.

Antibiotics, antimicrobial mouthwashes, and surgery are all forms of treatment. Although gum recession cannot be cured, the right professional dental support can stop it from getting worse.

If you have receding gums, your family dentist can help you determine the origin of the problem and offer treatments to repair gum tissue and to help prevent further issues.

Ready for a transformative smile and critical support for your gum line? Contact South Anchorage Dental Center today to book your appointment!

About Receding Gums

Receding gums involve the roots of your teeth becoming visible as your gum tissue begins to move away from them. Your teeth are more likely to develop cavities, suffer sensitivities, and other issues as a result.

Gum recession can range from minor to severe. Several teeth or only one tooth could be impacted. But who’s at risk for gumline recession, and what are the signs to look for?

Who’s at Risk for Gumline Recession?

You’re more likely to develop gum recession if you:

• Are 65 or older.
• Use chewing tobacco.
• You smoke or vape.
• Have had braces or other orthodontic treatment.
• Have a lip or tongue piercing.
• Brush your teeth aggressively.
• Have periodontal disease or signs pointing to periodontal concerns.

Now, what are the signs of gum recession to be looking for?

What are the Signs of Gum Line Recession?

The most apparent sign of gum recession is tooth root exposure.

Other gum recession warning signs include:

• Pain or discomfort near your gum line.
• Sensitivity to cold, heat, sweets, and other elements.
• Sensitivity when brushing or flossing your teeth.
• Sensitivity during dental cleanings.

When untreated, gum recession can lead to other serious oral health problems, such as tooth instability, bone loss, and even tooth loss. If you notice any of the symptoms listed above, you should schedule an appointment with your dental professional right away.

A family dentist can determine how to fix gum recession and will offer ways to treat the condition either surgically or via nonsurgical remedies, such as topical antibiotics or dental bonding. A professional dentist with periodontal support can also help with surgical support.

How to Fix Gum Recession

Steps for how to repair gum recession can be discussed and addressed during a regular dental exam. By using a specialized tool called a periodontal probe to measure the degree of gum recession on each tooth, gum recession can be diagnosed by a professional.

In regions where the gums have receded, bone loss is common so the dentist will also evaluate the size of the periodontal pockets surrounding each tooth. Healthy pockets range in size from 1 to 3 millimeters. Pockets with gingivitis are about 4 millimeters in size. Those with periodontal disease have pockets that are at least 5 millimeters deep.

Gum recession treatment is primarily dependent on the underlying reason. Non-surgical remedies, such as topical antibiotics, dental bonding, or orthodontics, may help with mild gum recession occurrences. However, in the majority of cases, gum recession surgery is required to entirely resolve the issue.

Nonsurgical Treatments

Non-surgical gum recession treatments may include:

• Topical Antibiotics. Antibiotics are applied topically or by inserting an antibiotic directly under your gums.
• Home Cleaning Advice. Advice on how to clean your teeth more effectively.
• Scaling and Root Planting. Scaling and root planing or deep dental cleaning can be performed under local anesthesia to remove harmful bacteria that cause gum disease beneath the gum line.
• Dental Bonding. Your dentist may be able to conceal the area of recession with tooth-colored composite resin. This conceals the exposed tooth root, making it less visible and more comfortable.
• Cosmetic Dentistry. Gum recession can occur when a tooth is crooked, tipped, or rotated. Braces may be an option in these cases. Once the tooth is properly aligned, the gum margin may eventually correct itself.

While surgery is not always necessary, there are occasions with deep gum recession where it may be necessary.

Surgery for Gum Recession

The most reliable and long-standing gum recession treatment option is to have gum graft surgery. This procedure is typically performed by a dentist with periodontal expertise.

A gum graft is used during this surgery to replace your missing gum tissue. The graft is usually taken from the roof of your mouth, but it can also come from sterilized human donor tissue.

Your surgeon will stitch the gum graft into place once it is in the proper position. Gum grafting procedures come in a variety of forms. Your surgeon can advise you on which one is best. Gum grafting procedures are now minimally invasive.

Consult with a Professional

A professional dentist will offer comprehensive attention and leading-edge dental treatments for you or your family as you need support for gum recession or other dental issues.

Services for You and Your Entire Family

• Cleanings. Oral hygiene is critical for keeping your mouth and gums healthy. Stay on course with routine dental cleanings and exams.
• Gum Recession Evaluation and Treatment. As mentioned in this article, a professional dentist can help you understand and treat you with surgical and non-surgical treatments.
• X-Rays. Dental X-rays can give you a clearer picture of what's really going on inside your mouth and show you whether you have serious gum issues that could be the source of pains, unfavorable physical appearance, or teeth sensitivities.
• An Oral Cancer and Lymph Node Check. A family dentist provides cancer screenings and lymph node evaluations in addition to basic dental repairs.
• Restorative Services including cosmetic, and emergency care.
• A Dental Savings Plan. You and your family will benefit from a professional dentist who offers in-house dental savings plans that can save you up to 20% on your treatments.

To address the causes of gum recession and to get the proper treatment, a dental professional can help. But it’s important to move ahead with the right gum recession and dental support you need.

Moving Ahead with the Right Gum Recession Support

Gum recession can cause a whole host of concerns such as teeth sensitivity and increased chances of getting cavities. If you have receding gums, your dentist can best help with the situation and choose the right treatment to prevent the problem from recurring.

South Anchorage Dental Center can help by offering the necessary diagnosis and best possible treatment for success.

Ready for a transformative smile and critical support for your gum line? Contact South Anchorage Dental Center today to book your appointment!