If your gums are pulling away from your teeth, you may be dealing with gum recession. This condition exposes more of the tooth surface, making your smile more sensitive and vulnerable to decay. While gum recession happens gradually, it can worsen over time without treatment. Schedule a consultation with our team in Melbourne, FL, to protect your smile.
What Is Gum Recession?
Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue surrounding your teeth begins to wear away or pull back, exposing more of the tooth or its root. This process can affect both your smile and your oral health. When gums recede, they provide less protection for your teeth, increasing the chances of complications like decay or gum disease. The sooner gum recession is detected, the easier it is to treat and prevent further damage.
- Tissue loss: Gums gradually pull back from the teeth over time.
- Exposed tooth roots: More of the tooth structure becomes visible.
- Oral health risks: Recession can lead to a higher risk of decay and infection.
- Early intervention matters: Treating gum recession early prevents further complications.
What Causes Gum Recession?
Gum recession can happen for several reasons, and understanding the cause is key to preventing it from getting worse. While aging plays a role, gum tissue loss can often be traced back to lifestyle habits, genetics, or underlying dental conditions.
- Over-brushing: Using too much force or a hard-bristled toothbrush can wear down gum tissue.
- Poor oral hygiene: Not brushing and flossing regularly allows plaque buildup to irritate the gums.
- Tobacco use: Smoking or chewing tobacco increases gum inflammation and weakens gum tissue.
- Teeth grinding (bruxism): Excessive pressure on the gums can cause them to recede over time.
Recognizing The Signs Of Gum Recession
Since gum recession happens gradually, many people don’t notice it right away. However, there are clear warning signs to look out for. If you notice any of the following, it’s important to seek professional care to prevent further damage.
- Tooth sensitivity: Hot, cold, or sweet foods may cause discomfort.
- Gums appearing thinner: The gumline may look uneven or more pulled back.
- Teeth looking longer: More of the tooth surface becomes visible over time.
- Swollen or bleeding gums: Signs of irritation, especially when brushing or flossing.
How Gum Recession Is Treated
At Viera Dental Design Studio, we provide advanced treatments to restore gum health and protect your smile. Whether your gum recession is mild or severe, our personalized approach ensures you receive the best care for long-lasting results. After a thorough evaluation, we’ll recommend the most effective solution based on your needs.
- Scaling and root planing: This deep cleaning procedure removes plaque, tartar, and bacteria from beneath the gumline. By smoothing the root surfaces, the gums have a better chance of reattaching naturally, reducing further gum loss.
- Gum grafting: For more advanced cases, gum grafting is an effective way to restore lost tissue. We use a small amount of healthy gum tissue, typically from the roof of your mouth, to cover exposed roots, improving both function and appearance.
- Minimally invasive procedures: Our office offers modern techniques like laser therapy and the pinhole surgical technique (PST), which reposition the gums with little to no downtime. These options are ideal for patients looking for faster recovery and less discomfort.
- Ongoing care and prevention: Once treatment is complete, we’ll provide personalized guidance on maintaining healthy gums. Regular check-ups, good oral hygiene, and a few simple lifestyle changes can help prevent further gum recession.
If you’re noticing signs of gum recession, now is the time to take action. Our team is committed to providing gentle, high-quality care to restore your smile and protect your long-term oral health.
Caring For Your Gums After Treatment
After gum recession treatment, proper care is essential to maintain results and prevent further gum loss. Small lifestyle changes can make a big difference in keeping your gums healthy.
- Practice gentle oral hygiene: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush carefully.
- Visit your dentist regularly: Routine cleanings help monitor gum health.
- Avoid tobacco products: Smoking and chewing tobacco can slow healing.
- Use a nightguard if needed: Protect your gums if you grind your teeth at night.
Frequently Asked Questions
Patients often have concerns about gum recession and treatment options. Here are answers to some of the most common questions.
Lost gum tissue does not grow back naturally, but treatments like gum grafting can restore coverage and protect exposed roots.
Most patients should visit every six months, but those with gum disease or a history of recession may need more frequent visits.
Modern techniques prioritize patient comfort, and minimally invasive procedures reduce recovery time.
Practicing good oral hygiene, avoiding tobacco, and using a soft-bristled toothbrush can help protect your gums.