The health of your gums is essential for supporting and stabilizing your teeth within the oral cavity. However, when gum recession occurs, it can significantly impact oral health and aesthetics. According to the Hollywood, Florida dentist, gum Recession can be treated appropriately if diagnosed early. Read on to explore more about this condition and the effective treatment modalities.
What is gum recession?
Gum disease, a serious infection of the gums, involves the detachment of supporting tissues from the teeth, causing exposure to the tooth roots. This heightened sensitivity to temperature changes can range from mild to severe, depending on the extent of the recession.
What causes gum recession?
- Brushing too hard or too aggressively
- Using a hard-bristled toothbrush
- Plaque or calculus buildup
- Periodontal disease
- Trauma or injury to the gums
- Misalignment
- Tobacco use
- Smoking
- Lip or tongue-piercing
What symptoms do you experience while suffering from gum recession?
The most striking sign of receding gums is the exposure of the tooth roots. Other signs and symptoms may include:
- Gnawing pain near the gum line
- Increased tooth sensitivity to heat, cold, and sweets
- Sensitivity when brushing or flossing teeth
- Sensitivity during dental cleanings
- Halitosis (bad breath)
- Aesthetically unappealing smile
- Loose teeth
How do dentists diagnose gum recession?
Gum recession is readily detectable during a standard oral examination. A periodontal probe, a specialized dental tool, aids in measuring the extent of gum recession on individual teeth. Additionally, it helps gauge the depth of periodontal pockets to evaluate bone loss levels.
How do you treat gum recession?
Gum recession treatment depends on the severity of the condition. The treatment options are as follows:
Mild to moderate gum recession
- Topical or oral antibiotics
- Scaling and root planning
- Dental bonding to camouflage the area of recession with tooth-colored composite resin.
- Orthodontic treatment like braces for crooked or rotated teeth causing gum recession.
Severe gum recession
- Severe gum recession is usually treated through surgical intervention such as gum grafting. During the surgery, a graft is taken from other places of your oral cavity and used to replace your missing gum tissue.
Gum recession is a prevalent gum disease, that can be effectively treated if detected early, preventing its advancement. However, untreated gum recession can significantly impact your oral health and wellness. Familiarize yourself with the symptoms to remain vigilant and promptly seek dental assistance, ultimately enhancing your overall well-being.
