Are Receding Gums Permanent?

Receding gums are caused by a number of factors, including aging, brushing too hard, poor dental hygiene, or genetics. When the gums recede, they pull away from the tooth leaving the root area exposed and at risk. This space is also problematic as it leaves room for plaque to collect. Plaque is the sticky bacteria that collects and causes issues within one’s mouth, including more gum recession and bone or tooth loss. Unfortunately, gum tissue does not grow back. This is because the tissue one’s gums are made up of does not regenerate in the way other tissue in the body can. Is there such a thing as receding gums treatment?

As scary as receding gums may sound it’s actually a common dental problem. Oftentimes most people don’t even notice their gums are receding because it’s such a slow and gradual process. The warning signs of gum recession are tooth sensitivity or one’s teeth looking longer than normal. Also, if you can feel a notch near the gum line, your gums may be receding.

Receding Gums Treatment Options

While the gums may not regenerate or grow back, there are steps that can be taken and procedures that slow down the process. First and foremost, it is important to make an appointment with your dentist in Arcadia to understand the status of your gum recession. Dr. Young will assess the impact thus far and determine the next steps for receding gums treatment.

We often start with a deep clean to remove the bacteria and plaque from the space between the tooth and gums. This deep cleaning is known as scaling and root planing. During the procedure, Dr. Young will scrape away the tartar from your teeth and under your gum line with a scraper tool and an ultrasonic devise the vibrates and loosens the plaque. The receding gums treatment process is minimally invasive and virtually painless. In addition to this procedure, Dr. Young will advise you on how to maintain the results of the procedure. This usually involves brushing your teeth gently twice a day using a soft brush, flossing daily, and regular dental cleanings every six months.

Extreme Cases

In some cases, your dentist may suggest surgery. Sometimes the bacteria underneath the gum may be hard to reach which will warrant the need for a more invasive approach. There are various types of procedures, including flap surgery, gum graft, and bonding. Flap surgery involves the oral surgeon making a small cut into your gum tissue to lift and remove any plaque they were unable to reach with the deep clean. The gum is then secured, and the goal of the procedure is to prevent eventual bone loss.

A gum graft is where an oral surgeon takes tissue from another part of your mouth and places it around the receding area. The goal of this procedure is to reduce the appearance of receding gums in addition to protecting one’s teeth from future tooth or bone damage. Bonding involves placing resin over the roots of the affected teeth. This reduces the appearance of receding gums and protects the sensitive roots. These procedures are invasive and can be painful.

Receding Gums Treatment in Arcadia

As mentioned above, there are options for treating receding gums. The problem with those options is the pain and invasiveness that comes with them. One of the more modern approaches to gum recession that is less painful and highly effective is gum lifting in Arcadia. This procedure is less invasive, less painful, and the results are noticeable much faster than alternative treatments. The procedure is only one hour and the recovery time is fast. You can even go back to work the same day!

If you think you may need receding gums treatment, Premier Dental Esthetics specializes in this exact condition. Our staff provides a variety of services including veneers, dental crowns, dentures, cosmetic dentistry, and regular cleanings. Our goal is to get you to love your smile, increase your confidence, and benefit your overall quality of life. Remember that gum rescission is not something to ignore. If you feel like your gums are receding or you just need a dental checkup, contact Premier Dental Esthetics!