All You Need to Know About Gum Recession

Last updated 12 months ago

Gum recession can be a serious concern for the people suffering from the condition. Gum recession can be caused by anything from tobacco use to periodontal disease, and treatments may range from adjusting your brushing technique to surgery.

Understanding Gum Recession: Gum recession is when the gingiva, or gum tissue, recedes away from the teeth, exposing the root of the tooth. This exposure can lead to overly sensitive teeth, inflammation and bleeding of the gums, bad breath, and teeth that appear to look long.
Causes of Gum Recession: Before treatment of gum recession can begin, the cause must first be determined. Tobacco use is a common cause of gum recession, as the juice from the tobacco can inflame and irritate the gum tissue. Periodontal disease, which is an infection or inflammation of the gums, can also cause gum recession. Moderate and advanced stages of periodontal disease are marked by severe gum recession and may eventually result in tooth loss.

Using a hard-bristled toothbrush or applying too much pressure when brushing can be devastating to the teeth and gums as well. This can deteriorate the teeth, causing gum recession.

Finally, neglecting your oral hygiene routine can also cause gum recession. Brushing and flossing help to remove the plaque and bacteria that can lead to periodontal disease. Failure to do this creates an ideal environment for these harmful substances to grow and reproduce, eventually contributing to gum recession.

Treatments for Gum Recession: The treatment your dentist chooses for your gum recession will depend on the cause. Better oral hygiene and regular dental care are essential. Other treatments may include root scaling and planing, gum grafting surgery, and gum regeneration therapy.

If you are experiencing symptoms of periodontal disease, such as gum recession, it is vital that you see a skilled dentist as soon as possible. Call us at Redondo Beach Dental Group at (310) 542-6988 to schedule your appointment or to learn more about our dental services.