ARE YOUR GUMS RECEDING?
Have you recently noticed that your teeth appear to be longer than they used to be, or that you are experiencing tooth sensitivity when consuming hot or cold liquids? If so, gum recession might be to blame. Schedule an appointment with your periodontist near Belmont if you have noticed that your gums are receding, and check out the guide below to find out more about this condition.
What Causes Gum Recession?
Gum recession occurs as a result of gum disease. This condition develops due to gum irritation that causes the gums to become red, tender, and inflamed. Most often, this occurs due to the buildup of plaque and bacteria along the gum line. As the gums become inflamed, pockets may begin to form, which provide a space for even more plaque and bacteria to accumulate. As the infection and inflammation worsen, the gums can begin to pull away from the teeth completely.
In addition to changing the look of your smile, gum recession can lead to sensitivity since it exposes the roots of the teeth. This condition can also make you more susceptible to tooth decay, which may lead to the need for root canal therapy and other dental treatments. In addition, gum recession can cause the teeth to become loose, which can put you at risk for tooth loss.
How Is Gum Recession Treated?
The treatment plan for your gum recession will depend on the severity of your condition. Your dentist may perform a laser treatment to reduce the size of the pockets in your gum tissue. For more severe cases, your dentist may recommend surgery. Flap surgery is a treatment option which returns the gums to a snug position around the teeth. Another option is tissue grafting surgery. With this procedure, a membrane is grafted onto the gum tissue to encourage new tissue growth.
