Gum disease can be reversed effectively in the early stages. However, as periodontal disease progresses, it can lead to gingival recession, also called receding gums. Receding gums is the progressive loss of gum tissues, which can eventually lead to exposed tooth roots and tooth loss. The condition is more common among those over the age of 40. Many patients don’t often have any symptoms, which is why diagnosis is often late. You need to see your dentist in Fairfield, CA, periodically to ensure your teeth and gums are healthy. In this post, we will discuss common symptoms and treatment options for gum disease.
Symptoms of gingival recession
As mentioned, many patients may not have any symptoms of gingival recession. In other cases, a patient may have other issues, such as sensitive teeth and longer-looking teeth. In severe cases of gum recession, some patients may have visible tooth roots. Other symptoms include inflammation, gum bleeding, and persistent bad breath. This brings us to the next question – What causes gingival recession? Some of the common reasons include overaggressive brushing and poor oral hygiene. While regular brushing and flossing remain critical for ensuring gum health, over-brushing can also be a problem. Tobacco consumption is another reason for gingival recession, and that includes smoking and chewing tobacco. If early signs of gum disease are ignored, it can also lead to other problems, including receding gums.
Treatments for gingival recession
Your dentist will make a detailed diagnosis of gingival recession and will discuss the treatment plan accordingly. Some common options include –
- Topical antibiotics & deep cleaning: If you are suffering from receding gums because of periodontal disease, they may initially recommend deep dental cleaning procedures, such as root planing and scaling. These procedures are done under local anesthesia, and depending on the extent of gum disease, they may suggest topical antibiotics, which are inserted under the gums to address the recession and other symptoms.
- Dental bonding: If gum recession is a cosmetic concern, your dentist may address the area of recession with dental bonding. Dental bonding involves using tooth-colored composite resin to cover the exposed roots.
- Gum graft surgery: When non-surgical procedures are unlikely to be useful, they may recommend surgery for gum recession. The procedure involves getting the grafting material from the roof of your mouth and placing the graft on the targeted areas. The grafting material may also come from donor tissues. A gum graft is stitched to the desired position, and you can return home on the same day. The procedure doesn’t take more than an hour. A second appointment is usually scheduled a week later to check the condition of the graft.
Is it possible to prevent gingival recession?
Yes, you can prevent gum recession, although some patients are at more risk of the condition because of genetics. Make sure you brush your teeth twice every day, and flossing is just as important. You would want to prevent the growth of bacteria inside the mouth, for which using an antimicrobial mouthwash is recommended. Regular checkups are also important, as your dentist can spot the early signs of gum disease before things progress to worse symptoms like gum recession. Always use a soft-bristled toothbrush for brushing, and if you smoke or chew tobacco, consider quitting.
Final word
If you have signs of gum disease, such as swelling, bleeding, and inflammation, don’t delay seeking help. Dentists are usually able to diagnose gum issues through an oral examination, and in the early stages, treatments are usually simpler. Advanced periodontal disease poses significant risks and may require surgical treatment.
Search for a competent and reputed dental clinic in Fairfield today!
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