Healthy gums fit snugly around your teeth. They should not expose the roots since it could result in tooth decay and tooth loss. When gums recede, this is what happens. They leave your gums vulnerable to bacteria and plaque. The condition is a result of gingivitis or periodontitis.

Is the Condition Reversible?

The simple answer is no. But if caught early, your gums can heal. They can reattach to your teeth roots, and you can regain your oral health. Some treatments can restore gum tissue around the teeth.

Signs of Gum Recession

Sometimes gum recession happens without giving any signs. After some time, you will notice that your teeth appear longer, and you can see your roots. Other signs to look out for include:

• Bleeding after flossing or brushing.
• Bad breath.
• Swollen, red gums.
• Loose teeth.

Causes of Gum Recession

Be careful and deliberate with your oral health to avoid gum recession. But sometimes, it may result from other health conditions. These include:

• Family history of gum recession.
• Poor oral health.
• Aggressive brushing and flossing.
• Smoking and using tobacco.
• Hormonal changes.
• Poorly fitting dentures.

Treatment

Treating the receding gums will be based on what is causing the condition. The most common treatment involves grafting. However, other procedures can help you get gum tissue around your teeth. It will help you regain protection. These include:

Gum Graft Surgery

The severe recession of teeth requires gum graft surgery. The procedure involves using healthy gum tissue from the roof of your mouth. The dentist uses the tissue to build back the gum in places with recession.

There are three different types of grafts that dentists use. They depend on your specific needs. However, some dentists and patients prefer graft material from the tissue bank instead of the roof of their mouth. Your dentist will tell you which method is best to get graft material for the procedure.

Root Planing and Scaling

Root planing and scaling is a non-surgical periodontal therapy. It involves deep cleaning the pockets that form between your gums and teeth. The dentist removes tartar and plaque from your teeth’s root and other areas your toothbrush cannot reach. After removal, they smoothen the roots of your teeth, helping reattach the gums.

If there is a need to prevent infection, your dentist will administer antibiotics directly into the area undergoing the procedure. The process helps correct the effects the periodontal disease for a long time. If there is a need, they will recommend oral antibiotics you can take at home.

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Pinhole Surgical Technique

The technique is relatively new, but many prefer it because it is minimally invasive. The procedure will need the doctor to create a hole in the tissue atop the tooth. The dentist separates the tooth’s gum tissue using a special tool. They also add collagen material to stabilize the area. Afterward, the dentist repositions back the tissue over the tooth to protect it. It is simple and suture-free.

For more information on receding gums, call Dr. Sam’s Premier Dentistry at (903) 708-6400 to reach our office in Sherman, Texas.