How To Restore Receding Gums?

Each year, millions of people across the globe are diagnosed with periodontal disease. Gum recession is a common symptom of gum disease. It happens when the teeth’ gum tissues pull back, exposing more of a tooth and roots. Gum recession occurs gradually. Initially, you might experience tooth sensitivity or notice your teeth appear longer than usual.

Receding gums cause pockets or gaps between the teeth and gum line. Over time, bacterial plaque and calculus build up below the gums, forming deeper pockets. If not treated, the surrounding teeth, gums, bone, and connective tissues get damaged, resulting in tooth loss and other long-term complications. Like it sounds, gum recession isn’t something you want to ignore. If you suspect your gums are receding, see a dentist or periodontist immediately.

Causes of Receding Gums

• Periodontal disease. Gum disease is the key cause of receding gums. Gum disease is the inflammation of the gum tissues caused by bacterial plaque and tartar. Receding gums often indicates advanced gum disease. Seeking gum treatment can help prevent or reverse gum recession.
• Some people, about 30% of the population, are pre-disposed to periodontal disease. It increases their risk of receding gums.
• Aggressive tooth brushing. Brushing your teeth and gums vigorously won’t make them cleaner. On the contrary, aggressive brushing erodes your teeth’ enamel and irritates the gums, increasing your risk of gum recession.
• Poor oral hygiene. Insufficient oral hygiene encourages bacterial and tartar buildup, causing receding gums.
• Hormonal changes. Pregnant women experience significant Hormonal changes, making them susceptible to gum disease and gum recession.
• Underlying health conditions like diabetes
• Tobacco use
• Chronic teeth grinding and clenching puts excessive force on the teeth, causing your gums to recede.
• Orthodontic problems. Crooked or overcrowded teeth can encourage plaque development, leading to gum recession.

How is Gum Recession Treated

Your dentist or periodontists can recommend the following treatments based on the severity of your condition:

• Excellent oral hygiene and care

For mild gum recession, your dentist can recommend non-invasive treatments such as:

• Excellent at-home dental hygiene. Daily brushing and flossing gently and thoroughly can significantly reduce bacterial plaque and gum recession. A soft electric brush can help clean your mouth and promote gum healing. Be sure to avoid aggressive brushing and abrasive oral products and toothbrushes.
• Routine professional check-ups and cleanings. Visiting your dentist regularly will help eliminate bacterial tartar and plaque and restore the health of your gums.
• Antibiotics

If receding gums result from periodontal disease, the dentist can use topical antibiotics with other treatments like regular dental cleanings and deep cleaning. Your periodontist can also suggest inserting medications under the gums to eliminate gum infection. Perio Protect therapy uses custom trays to deliver medicines to the gums.

• Deep cleaning or scaling and root planing

Scaling involves removing bacterial tartar and plaque below and above the gum line. Root planing involves smoothening the tooth’s roots to make it difficult for bacteria and plaque to attach. Deep cleaning allows the gums to re-attach to the teeth firmly and restore your gum health. Visit our office for soft tissue treatment near you.

• Surgery

In severe cases, when the gum pockets are too deep, and the surrounding bone and connective tissues are damaged, you might need surgery to repair and restore your gum health. The dentist or periodontist can recommend:

• Flap surgery. The periodontist folds back the gum tissues, removes the harmful bacteria and plaque from the pockets, and then stitches the gums snugly over the teeth roots.
• Gum and bone graft surgery. If the gum tissues and bone are significantly damaged, the dentist might recommend graft surgery to repair and restore the health of the gums and bone.
• Pinhole surgical techniques. The procedure helps reposition the gums to fit snugly against the teeth.

Tips for managing receding gums

Use the following tips to prevent, manage, and treat receding gums:

• Brush at least twice daily. If possible, use an electric toothbrush and avoid abrasive oral products. Replace your toothbrush every 2-4 months.
• Floss at least once daily.
• Use fluoride-based toothpaste.
• Schedule routine dental check-ups and cleanings.
• Avoid tobacco products.
• Eat gum-healthy foods.
• Wear a mouthguard for bruxism.
• Manage diabetes and other underlying conditions.
• Replace ill-fitting or damaged restorations like dentures.

Schedule an Appointment Today

Are you interested in Soft Tissue Treatment in Chestnut Hill, MA? Or perhaps you need treatment or more tips on restoring gum health? Contact Hammond Pond Dental Group to begin your treatment today.