GUM RECESSION TREATMENT

Periodontal disease is actually quite common and occurs more frequently in adults over the age of 40. If you believe your gums are receding, you will notice that your teeth seem longer and will likely experience sensitivity at the gum line. Catching periodontal disease early can greatly increase your chances of preventing winston salem gum recession and possible tooth loss.

Symptoms of Gum Recession

Some signs that you may have receding gums include:

• Red and swollen gums
• Bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth
• Loose teeth
• Sensitivity
• Bleeding while or after brushing and flossing

Causes of Gum Recession

Periodontal disease is only one cause of receding gums. Other causes may be:

• Poor oral hygiene
• Medications that cause dry mouth
• Diabetes
• Age
• Smoking or using smokeless tobacco
• Grinding and clenching during sleep
• Injury and oral piercings
• Misalignment

Brushing too aggressively can also cause gum recession. Using a soft bristled brush and using is gentle twice a day is important.

Diagnosis and Treatment for Gum Recession

Make sure you maintain a regular schedule with your dentist. During biannual cleanings, your dental hygienist will take measurements of the pockets between the tooth and gum, looking for a measurement range of one to three millimeters. Anything higher could indicate recession or infection. Your hygienist may suggest placement of an antibiotic chip in deeper pockets to help heal the area. Your dentist will diagnose gum recession and possibly refer you to a Periodontist for treatment.

While recession cannot be reversed, there are steps you can take to keep it from worsening. Poor oral hygiene can be resolved easily by listening to your dentist and hygienist as they advise you on ways to change and improve your home care. They may suggest adding an antibacterial mouthwash or a second brush to help get the plaque formation between teeth. You may be a candidate to have your hygienist do a procedure called scaling and root planing, a deep cleaning at which time the area to be worked on is numbed. This allows the hygienist to clean tartar and plaque build-up from the roots as well as the exposed surfaces of the teeth.

If recession is serious and cannot be treated at your dentist’s office, a Periodontist can perform a gum graft to restore the affected area.

Preventing Gum Recession

Proper oral care is the easiest way to avoid developing any periodontal concerns. Prevention is easier and cheaper than treatment so make sure you visit your dentist at least twice per year for professional dental cleanings and check-ups! If an issue does develop, catching it early leads to easier, less invasive treatment options.

Knowing what to look for will help you be aware during home care. Taking steps to prevent periodontal disease will aid in the maintenance of a healthy, beautiful smile!

More information on Gum Recession : Gum Recession Symptoms