How To Correct Gum Recession

Receding gums can’t grow back, but they can be stopped and treated.

Gum recession can be a huge problem. Not only do recessed gums loosen their grip on teeth, possibly leading to tooth loss, but they also create pockets where bacteria can multiply, risking infection. If you are worried about your own gums, then you need to consider two main things:

• What causes gum recession?
• What can you do to prevent or reverse it?

The reasons gums recede

Periodontal disease

This just means gum disease. There are plenty of types of gum disease, but we will just cover the basics of what to look for here. First and foremost, the periodontium is the supporting structure around each tooth. It consists of four main parts: the gums, the cementum (tissue attaching ligament to the tooth), alveolar bone (tooth sockets on the jaw bone), and ligaments.

If you are worried you may have periodontal disease, look for the following symptoms:

• Inflammation around the teeth and in the gums.
• Large plaque deposits.
• Pain in the gums, especially when chewing, or consuming things that are hot or cold.
• Redness in the gums and soft tissue of the mouth.

If you don’t have symptoms, but are still worried, these increase your risk:

• Crooked teeth.
• Lack of oral hygiene.
• Bad or damaged dental fillings.
• Smoking/tobacco use.
• Diabetes
• Age
• Hormonal changes due to pregnancy or medicine use.
• Stress
• Bridges/implants/dentures that fit poorly.
• Teeth that are naturally crooked, or crooked due to injury.
• Genetics

There are two stages of gum disease. The first stage is gingivitis, which is the early stage. The good news is that gingivitis is reversible, and with proper oral hygiene, can be treated aptly. The second stage is periodontitis, or gum disease. This can result in pain, tooth loss, and more. This requires dental treatment and/or surgery to handle.

Overly forceful brushing

This is a major cause of gum recession. Many, in an attempt to brush more thoroughly, apply far too much force. Repeatedly doing so physically pushes back the gums. Solutions for this problem involve using a softer toothbrush, and being more mindful when brushing. Additionally, remember to use a circular motion while brushing, rather than a horizontal motion.

Tooth grinding/clenching

Grinding and clenching result in a massive pressure being put on the gums. The result is recession over time. Another possible result is teeth loosening in their sockets, which can allow pockets where bacteria freely forms. This helps lead to gum infection and gum disease (see above). Chewing gum, deep breathing, and other stress relief can help reduce grinding and clenching.

How are recessed gums treated?

Although receding gums will never come back naturally, they can be treated.

Good dental care and oral hygiene will stop the recession

Brushing twice a day, flossing, drinking plenty of water, and a dental checkup every 6 months will do wonders to stop your gum recession. If you already do those things, here are some less commonly-known ways to improve your oral health:

• Change toothbrushes every 3 months.
• Use different toothpastes, especially gum-care toothpastes.

Remember, prevention is the best solution!

Treatment to reverse gum recession

Pinhole surgical technique

PST is a relatively new treatment for moderate to severe receding gums. It is less invasive than other surgeries. A tiny hole is made in the gums, then a tool stretches the existing gum over the exposed root of the tooth.

Gum graft surgery

This is the nuclear option for when gums are recessed. It is used to treat severely receded gum lines. A small piece of gum tissue is cut from elsewhere in the mouth and placed over exposed tooth roots. It helps prevent further gum recession, and protects the exposed roots of teeth from further decay.

Need help with your receding gums?

If so, you came to the right place. Josey Lane Dentistry has been helping the residents of Carrollton with receding gums for nearly 2 decades. If you aren’t sure whether your gum problems are reversible, or how to treat them, then send us a message today with your symptoms. We will be happy to advise, treat, or otherwise help you have the healthiest, brightest smile you can.