How to Prevent and Treat Gum Recession?

Gum recession is a process that occurs when the margin of gum tissue nearby the tissue pulls back or wears away. When this happens, it exposes more of the tooth root or the tooth. Receding gums can create gaps or pockets in between the gum lining and teeth. It increases the chances of disease-causing bacterial build-up in the mouth. When ignored for longer, tooth structure and supporting tissue get badly damaged. It ultimately leads to tooth loss. 

Gum Recession Treatment

Treatment of gum recession typically relies on the cause of gum issues. Mild cases are treatable using non-surgical treatment. However, in serious cases, surgery is required to fix it. 

1 .Non-Surgical Treatments

The following non-surgical treatments include:

a) Topical Antibiotics

Sometimes, the professional uses antibiotics under the gums directly. It helps to remove the leftover harmful bacteria from the mouth that cause gum disease. 

b) Tooth Bonding

To mask the exposed tooth root due to gum recession, the dentist uses tooth-colored composite resin bonding material. This makes it less noticeable to people. 

c) Orthodontics

If the expert finds the tooth rotated, crooked, or tipped, he/she suggests braces for gum recession. The treatment helps shift the affected tooth into the proper alignment and correct the gum margin with time. 

2. Surgical Treatments

The following are the surgical treatments for gum recession:

a) Gum Grafting Surgery

If the periodontist in Phoenix finds the gum recession severe, he/she performs gum grafting surgery. During this, the expert takes the gum tissue from another part of your mouth and attaches or grafts it to the rear with lost gum tissue. 

When the area heals, it protects the exposed tooth root and appears natural. Gum grafting surgery is usually the long-term treatment choice for gum recession. The procedure is also minimally invasive. 

b) Flap Surgery

Flap surgery is a surgical procedure that includes deep cleaning of gum tissues. During this, the professional will lift your gums and disinfect the area underneath them to eradicate gum recession-causing bacteria. After some time, the dentist will put the gums back on the teeth. 

c) Regeneration

When the dentist finds the bone supporting the teeth destroyed, he/she recommends regenerating the lost tissue and bone. The professional will fold back the gum tissue to eradicate the bacterial build-up. Then, he/she uses a regenerative material like graft tissue, membrane, or tissue-stimulating protein. After that, the dentist will secure the gum tissue over the tooth root. 

d) LANAP

LANAP involves the use of lasers to promote lost tissue regeneration naturally. This painless procedure is much more effective and has a fast recovery time. It’s because it does not include cutting of gums or putting stitches. 

e) Pinhole Surgical Technique

For mild to moderate gum recession, the dentist uses a pinhole surgical technique (PST). It’s a minimally invasive treatment where the professional creates a small hole in the gum tissue above the exposed tooth root. Then, he/she adds a unique tool into that hole to separate the gums from the tooth. The expert will stretch and reposition the gums back over the exposed tooth root. 

Prevention of Gum Recession

The following prevention tips will help you minimize the risk of gum recession:

Practice Proper Gum and Teeth Care

You can prevent receding gums by sticking to good dental hygiene habits. These include:

• Use an antimicrobial mouthwash two times daily.
• Floss and brush your teeth using a soft toothbrush. But make sure you use mild to moderate pressure and short or circular forth and back motions.
• Prefer fluoride toothpaste for brushing. 
• Pick a shape and size of the brush that lets you access every part of your mouth.
• Attend routine dental cleaning and exam appointments. 

Use a Mouthguard

To prevent gum recession at night due to teeth grinding, the professional recommends a mouthguard. It is available in most pharmacies and dental offices near you. You can even ask your dentist in Phoenix, AZ to make a custom guard. Mouthguards serve as a physical barrier to separate the bottom and top teeth. They create uniform pressure across the jaw and help to prevent gum recession. 

Replace Faulty Dentures or Fillings

Ill-fitting dentures or faulty fillings can lead to gum recession. Therefore, it is essential to replace them with time so that they do not cause discomfort.