If you have issues with your gums, we can use non-invasive methods to help correct the problem and alleviate pain. Depending on your individual case, we can use scaling and root planning (deep cleaning), to remove subgingival soft and hard deposits of plaque, biofilm and tartar.
Overview
The underlying cause of receding gums is the deterioration of the supporting bone under the gum. Put simply, receding gum happens primarily as a result of inflammation and bacterial biofilm, also known as plaque. It could also be as a result of gingival morphology from anatomical reasons or genetics; poor orthodontic and restorative treatment; or trauma to the mouth from a sports injury or oral piercing.
Once the gingival margin ‘the gum’ pulls away from its normal position, the tooth root is exposed. With this most vulnerable part of your tooth exposed, you are likely to experience tooth sensitivity. Also, because your root is left open to oral bacteria and a harsh acidic environment, which subsequently causes tooth decay.
Receding gums also result in aesthetic concerns as they make your teeth look longer. If diagnosed early and the underlying cause is eliminated, we can treat the issue to limit future gum recession, improve aesthetics, decrease root and tissue sensitivity and improve the effectiveness of oral hygiene.
Procedure
The first phase of treatment is to remove the plaque and tartar from the tooth and root surfaces with the use of antimicrobial agents if needed. Periodontal surgery enables regeneration of lost soft and hard tissue. This procedure may be needed for one or more teeth. A soft tissue graft involves taking a piece of gum tissue from the patient’s palate (the roof of the mouth) or using donor tissue from either tissue banks or platelet-derived growth tissue. Once the graft heals, it covers the previously exposed root and protects it from sensitivity and root caries.
A graft can also be used to enhance your smile and make you look younger and healthier. For many patients, these treatments combined with excellent oral care at home and regular dental visits every two or three months can help control periodontal disease and attachment loss. Sometimes, additional antibiotic and antimicrobial drugs are recommended to assist the host response.
The underlying cause of receding gums is the deterioration of the supporting bone under the gum. Put simply, receding gum happens primarily as a result of inflammation and bacterial biofilm, also known as plaque. It could also be as a result of gingival morphology from anatomical reasons or genetics; poor orthodontic and restorative treatment; or trauma to the mouth from a sports injury or oral piercing.
Once the gingival margin ‘the gum’ pulls away from its normal position, the tooth root is exposed. With this most vulnerable part of your tooth exposed, you are likely to experience tooth sensitivity. Also, because your root is left open to oral bacteria and a harsh acidic environment, which subsequently causes tooth decay.
Receding gums also result in aesthetic concerns as they make your teeth look longer. If diagnosed early and the underlying cause is eliminated, we can treat the issue to limit future gum recession, improve aesthetics, decrease root and tissue sensitivity and improve the effectiveness of oral hygiene.
The first phase of treatment is to remove the plaque and tartar from the tooth and root surfaces with the use of antimicrobial agents if needed. Periodontal surgery enables regeneration of lost soft and hard tissue. This procedure may be needed for one or more teeth. A soft tissue graft involves taking a piece of gum tissue from the patient’s palate (the roof of the mouth) or using donor tissue from either tissue banks or platelet-derived growth tissue. Once the graft heals, it covers the previously exposed root and protects it from sensitivity and root caries.
A graft can also be used to enhance your smile and make you look younger and healthier. For many patients, these treatments combined with excellent oral care at home and regular dental visits every two or three months can help control periodontal disease and attachment loss. Sometimes, additional antibiotic and antimicrobial drugs are recommended to assist the host response.
If you’re concerned your gums may be receding, please get in contact with us as soon as possible so we can treat your issue before it becomes bigger and more unmanageable.
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