Silvia
Gum recession is when the gum tissue starts pulling away from the teeth exposing the underneath root. It may be caused by several reasons, which include smoking, genetics, aggressive brushing, or underlying health issues. Gum recession cannot be reversed, but the treatment may prevent the same from worsening. The treatment consists of antimicrobial antibiotics, mouth rinse, or surgery.
-
Understanding gum recession
Gum recession comes within the category of gum disease. It happens when the gum tissue starts pulling away from the teeth as it exposes the underneath root and your sensitivity increases. The teeth may become sensitive when you eat or brush. Gum recession may be moderate, mild, or severe. It might affect multiple teeth or a single tooth. You need an excellent dentist to suggest you an apt treatment. Look for Plainview cosmetic dentistry near me to find the best dentists.
-
Who gets gum recession?
Gum recession may affect individuals of every age. However, it is typical among individuals above the age of 60. Moreover, if you develop the following conditions, your risk of gum recession increases:
- If you have periodontal diseases.
- If you had orthodontic treatment or braces.
- If you use tobacco regularly.
- If your tongue or lip is pursued.
- If you brush your teeth with force and aggression.
-
Is gum recession typical?
Gum recession affects approximately 80% of individuals above the age of 65. It is a common gum disease-affecting individuals and requires dental attention as early as possible.
-
Understanding the symptoms of gum disease?
When talking about the symptoms of gum disease and gum recession, in particular, the most apparent ones are listed below:
- Discomfort or pain in the gum area
- Sensitivity to cold, heat, and sweets
- Sensitivity when flossing and brushing the teeth
- Sensitivity while clearing the mouth
If you leave the gum recession untreated, it results in severe oral health issues like tooth mobility, bone loss, and feeling wiggly. Hence, if you experience any of the symptoms discussed earlier, you must schedule an appointment with the dentist as soon as possible.
-
What causes gum recession?
The gums might recede for various reasons. Gum recession might be caused by the following points, which are listed below:
- Tartar buildup
- Brushing aggressively and too hard
- Periodontal diseases
- Injury or trauma to the gum tissue
- Abnormal tooth placement
- Chewing tobacco and smoking regularly
Irrespective of the causes of the gum recession, you need a timely diagnosis and proper treatment. At times improper oral hygiene may contribute to gum recession. However, it is always better to make an appointment with the dentist because they know how to analyze the situation and help you with a better treatment plan. It will help prevent oral health issues in the long term.
-
How to diagnose gum recession?
Your dentist may diagnose gum recession in a routine examination. Then they will measure the extent of gum recession on every tooth by utilizing a particular instrument known as a periodontal probe.
Bone loss is a typical sign in the areas of gum recession. For this reason, the dentist might measure the periodontal pocket around every tooth. A healthy bag measures 123 millimeters. However, if you have developed any severe problem, the periodontal pocket will go higher than 5 millimeters.
-
How can you take care of a gum recession?
Most individuals who experience gum recession might undergo sensitivity and painful episodes because the tooth root is uncovered. Moreover, it exposes your tooth to vulnerability. The dentist may use a numbing agent to make you feel comfortable during dental cleaning. Your dentist may apply fluoride varnish and desensitizing agents to reduce discomfort linked with receding gum; you may also use desensitizing toothpaste regularly at home.
It would help if you took care of your diet and oral hygiene. As a result, you must be cautious about what you eat. Do not have sticky and sweet food items because that will affect your tooth enamel. Hence, fixing the problem right on time is very important so that the situation does not worsen. Specific nonsurgical treatment methods include topical antibiotics, dental bonding, and orthodontics. On the other hand, you have a dental implant, a wise option used by dentists across the globe.
-
How to reduce sensitivity from gum recession?
Sensitivity is one of the severe problems associated with gum recession. It would help if you remembered that the dentist might recommend fluoride-based toothpaste, which is very common and readily available online and offline. Your dental hygiene becomes very important over here. Regular brushing and flossing are essential so that you can take your oral health to a comfortable position.
As mentioned earlier, desensitizing toothpaste may help ease the pain and discomfort. Look for ingredients like fluoride, strontium chloride, and arginine. These ingredients will calm your nerves inside the teeth. If you are experiencing any of these problems, you must get in touch with your dentist as soon as possible. Desensitizing toothpaste is a viable option for individuals suffering from long-term pain and sensitivity.
Depending on the severity of the case, you can go for any of these nonsurgical treatment options. For example, topical antibiotics are readily available to the dentist and effectively clean teeth. Root planting and scaling may also be done under local anesthesia. It will help you get rid of bacteria that cause gum disease. Occasionally you may also go for antibiotics directly under the supervision of your doctor. Remember that gum diseases require proper oral hygiene. It undoubtedly forms the basis of oral health.
If the tooth is chipped, crooked, or rotated, it may result in gum recession. In these instances, braces might be an option. Once you get your tooth braces, you must be mindful of your oral hygiene. Gum recession surgery is also prevalent because it is a long-term option. You require a gum specialist to perform the procedure.
During the surgery, the gum graft is utilized to replace the missing gum tissue. The overall procedure will take less time, but the maintenance and the post-recovery stage are essential and time-consuming.
Hence, it would help if you were consistent with the recommendations and suggestions of your dental surgeon so that you can recover as early as possible.
Brittany
