Ever noticed your teeth looking a bit longer than they used to? Or maybe you’ve felt a bit more sensitivity when you have something cold or hot? These could be signs of something called gum recession. It sounds a bit scary, but it’s a common dental problem — and the good news is that there are many effective gum recession treatment options available to help you get your smile back on track.
In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about gum recession, from what it is to how it’s treated, in easy-to-understand language. So, let’s dive in and learn how to keep your gums healthy and happy!
What is Gum Recession?
Imagine your teeth are like trees, and your gums are the soil that holds them firmly in place. When you have gum recession, it means that “soil” (your gum tissue) starts to pull back, or recede, from around your teeth. This exposes more of the tooth’s root, which is normally covered and protected.
Think of it like the tide going out – it exposes more of the beach. In the case of your teeth, when your gums recede, more of the sensitive tooth root is exposed. This can lead to a range of issues, from minor discomfort to more serious problems if left untreated.
Signs and Symptoms of Gum Recession
How do you know if you have gum recession? Sometimes it’s obvious, and sometimes it’s a bit more subtle. Here are some common signs and symptoms to look out for:
- Teeth looking “longer”: This is often the most noticeable sign. As the gums recede, more of the tooth structure becomes visible, making your teeth appear longer than before.
- Increased tooth sensitivity: One of the most common complaints. Because the tooth roots aren’t covered by enamel like the crowns of your teeth, they are very sensitive to hot, cold, sweet, or even just touching them. This can be a sign that receding gums pain treatment is becoming necessary.
- Notches near the gum line: You might feel a small indentation or notch where the gum used to be, right at the base of the tooth.
- Changes in tooth colour: The root of your tooth might look a bit yellower or darker than the top part because it doesn’t have the same white enamel covering.
- Loose teeth: In more advanced cases, if the gums and bone supporting the teeth have receded significantly, teeth can become loose.
- Bad breath: Gum disease, which can cause gum recession, often leads to bad breath.
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums: While not always a direct symptom of recession itself, these are signs of gum disease, which is a major cause of recession.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s a good idea to consult with your dentist, such as Artarmon dentist, to have it checked out.
Causes of Gum Recession
So, why do gums recede in the first place? There are several reasons, and often it’s a combination of factors:
- Aggressive tooth brushing: Brushing too hard or using a toothbrush with hard bristles can literally wear away your gum tissue over time. It’s like scrubbing a delicate surface too roughly.
- Periodontal disease (gum disease): This is the most common cause. It’s an infection of the gums and bone that support your teeth. If left untreated, the inflammation and infection destroy the gum tissue and bone, leading to recession.
- Genetics: Unfortunately, some people are just more prone to gum recession due to their genes. If your parents had receding gums, you might be more likely to as well.
- Poor oral hygiene: Not brushing and flossing regularly allows plaque (a sticky film of bacteria) to build up and harden into tartar. This can irritate the gums and lead to gum disease and recession.
- Tobacco use: Smoking and chewing tobacco are terrible for your gums. They restrict blood flow and make it harder for your gums to heal, increasing the risk of recession.
- Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism): The excessive force from grinding can put a lot of stress on the gums and supporting bone, contributing to recession.
- Misaligned teeth or a crooked bite: If your teeth don’t come together properly, some teeth might experience too much force when you bite, which can damage the gums.
- Lip or tongue piercings: These can rub against the gum tissue, causing it to wear away over time.
- Hormonal changes: For women, hormonal fluctuations during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause can make gums more sensitive and prone to problems.
- Insufficient dental care: Regular dental check-ups and cleans are crucial. If you skip these, problems like gum recession can go unnoticed and untreated until they become more severe.
Understanding the gum recession causes is the first step in preventing and treating the issue.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Gum Recession
The good news is that not all gum recession requires surgery. For mild to moderate cases, there are several effective non-surgical gum recession treatment options:
- Improved oral hygiene: This is foundational. Your dentist or dental hygienist will teach you the correct way to brush (gently!) and floss to remove plaque and tartar without damaging your gums. They might recommend a soft-bristled toothbrush or an electric toothbrush with a pressure sensor. This is key to preventing receding gums from getting worse.
- Deep cleaning (scaling and root planing): If you have plaque and tartar buildup below the gum line, a deep cleaning is necessary. Scaling removes the tartar from above and below the gum line, while root planing smooths out the tooth roots, making it harder for bacteria to stick and easier for the gums to reattach.
- Dental bonding: For minor recession that causes sensitivity or an unsightly appearance, a tooth-coloured resin can be applied to the exposed root surface. This helps cover the root, reduce sensitivity, and improve the look of your smile.
- Orthodontics: If misaligned teeth are causing gum recession, aligning the teeth with braces or aligners can help reduce stress on the gums and potentially allow them to heal or prevent further recession.
- Occlusal splint (night guard): If teeth grinding or clenching is the cause, a custom-fitted night guard can protect your teeth and gums from the damaging forces.
These non-surgical approaches are often the first line of defence and can be very effective in managing the problem, especially if caught early. They can help answer the question, is gum recession reversible in some cases, particularly if the cause is identified and addressed.
Surgical Gum Recession Treatments
When non-surgical options aren’t enough, or if the recession is more severe, your dentist might recommend surgical treatment for gum recession. Don’t worry, these procedures are usually performed by a periodontist (a gum specialist) and are designed to restore gum tissue and protect your teeth.
Here are some common surgical gum recession solutions:
- Gum Grafting (Connective Tissue Graft, Free Gingival Graft, Pedicle Graft): This is the most common surgical procedure for gum recession.
- Connective Tissue Graft: This is the most popular method. A small piece of tissue is taken from under the surface of the roof of your mouth (the palate) and then stitched onto the receded gum area. This new tissue helps cover the exposed root and regenerate gum tissue.
- Free Gingival Graft: Similar to a connective tissue graft, but a small piece of tissue is taken directly from the surface of the roof of your mouth and attached to the receded area.
- Pedicle Graft: This procedure involves using gum tissue from an adjacent area, typically near the tooth that requires repair. A flap of tissue is cut but remains attached at one end, then stretched over the exposed root and stitched into place. This works best when there’s plenty of gum tissue nearby.
- Regenerative Procedures: If gum recession is severe and has resulted in bone loss, regenerative procedures may be used. These involve using special membranes, tissue-stimulating proteins, or bone grafts to encourage your body to naturally regenerate lost bone and gum tissue.
- Pinhole Surgical Technique (PST): This is a newer, less invasive approach for treating multiple receding gums without the need for traditional grafting. The periodontist makes a small hole above the receded gum, uses special instruments to loosen the gum tissue, and then gently repositions it to cover the exposed root. Collagen strips are inserted to keep the gum in place while it heals. This can be considered a new treatment option for receding gums in suitable cases.
Your periodontist will discuss which surgical option is best for your specific situation, taking into account the extent of your recession and your overall oral health.
How to Care for Your Gums to Prevent Recession
Prevention is always better than a cure! Taking good care of your gums is the best way to prevent gum recession in the first place or to slow its progression. Here’s how to ensure that preventing gum recession is part of your daily routine:
- Brush gently: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush with gentle, circular motions, angling the brush towards the gum line. Avoid scrubbing vigorously.
- Brush twice a day: Ensure you brush for at least two minutes, both in the morning and at night.
- Floss daily: Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between your teeth and under the gum line, areas your toothbrush can’t reach.
- Use an antiseptic mouthwash: This can help reduce bacteria in your mouth that contribute to gum disease.
- See your dentist regularly: Schedule professional dental check-ups and cleans at least once a year, or more often if recommended by your dentist. Your dentist, like a dentist in Balmain, can spot early signs of recession and offer advice.
- Address teeth grinding: If you clench or grind your teeth, talk to your dentist about a night guard.
- Quit smoking: This is one of the best things you can do for your overall health, including your gums.
- Eat a balanced diet: A healthy diet plays a crucial role in maintaining overall oral health.
- Protect your mouth: If you play contact sports, wear a mouthguard.
Even if you have receding gums in your 20s, implementing these habits early can make a big difference and potentially reverse some mild recession.
What to Expect During and After Gum Recession Treatment
The experience during and after gum recession treatment will depend on whether you have a non-surgical or surgical procedure.
Non-Surgical Treatments (like deep cleaning or bonding)
- During: You might feel some pressure or scraping during a deep clean. Local anaesthetic can be used to ensure you’re comfortable. Bonding is usually quick and painless.
- After: Your gums might be a bit sensitive or sore for a few days after a deep clean. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help. You’ll be given instructions on how to care for your mouth.
Surgical Treatments (like gum grafting)
- During: These procedures are typically done under local anaesthetic, so you won’t feel any pain. If you’re anxious, your periodontist might offer sedation options. The procedure can take an hour or more, depending on the number of sites being treated.
- After:
- Pain and discomfort: You’ll likely experience some discomfort, swelling, and possibly minor bleeding for a few days. Your periodontist will prescribe pain medication and possibly antibiotics.
- Diet: You’ll be advised to stick to soft foods for a week or two to allow the graft to heal.
- Oral hygiene: You’ll receive specific instructions on how to clean your mouth without disturbing the surgical site. You might use a special mouthwash instead of brushing the area for a while.
- Healing time: Initial healing usually takes a week or two, but full healing can take several weeks to months as the new tissue integrates.
- Follow-up appointments: You’ll have follow-up appointments to check on the healing process and remove any stitches.
It’s crucial to follow all post-treatment instructions from your dentist or periodontist to ensure the best possible outcome and prevent complications. They will also advise you on how to stop receding gums from getting worse after treatment.
Conclusion
Gum recession is a common dental problem, but it’s not something you have to live with. With various gum recession treatment options available, from simple changes in your oral hygiene routine to advanced surgical procedures, a healthier and more confident smile is well within reach.
Remember, early detection is key. If you’re concerned about your gums or notice any of the signs of recession, don’t hesitate to book an appointment with your dentist. They can accurately diagnose the problem, discuss the best course of action for your specific needs, and help you protect your pearly whites for years to come.
Ready for a Healthier Smile?
Whether you need a deep clean, a gum graft, or just advice on preventing gum recession, If you are seeking expert advice and effective treatment for gum recession, visit your local experienced dentists Chatswood. Located in Chatswood, NSW, Simply Dental Chatswood, their experienced team is dedicated to providing quality dental services to help you maintain a healthy smile.
For those in neighboring areas, we also have experienced local dentists Willoughby to provide top-quality care.
Whether you need a deep clean, a gum graft, or just advice on preventing gum recession, your dentist is there to help you achieve and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. Schedule your check-up today!
