If you’re seeing a lot more of your teeth alongside red, swollen gum, it may be time for receding gum treatment from Pro Smile Dental Care. Our San Ramon dental office specializes in advanced dental restoration techniques. You’re not alone. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly half of all adults in the United States have some form of gum disease.
So what causes your gums to recede, and what can you and our dental team do to stop it from getting worse?
What Causes Receding Gums?
A variety of factors can cause receding gums. The most common reason the gum line starts to pull back from teeth is gingivitis or periodontal disease, which is caused by plaque buildup on your teeth. This buildup can lead to inflammation and tissue infection if not treated promptly.
- Poor Oral Hygiene
- Tobacco Use
- Hormonal Changes (Such As During Pregnancy)
- Diabetes
- Genetics
- Brushing Too Hard
- Certain Medications
Can Gums Grow Back?
Unfortunately, once the tissues have receded, there is no way to make receding gums grow back naturally. That said, dentists can stop this condition in its tracks and improve the appearance of your smile through specialized techniques.
Dental Treatments For Receding Gums
- Scaling & Root Planing
- Medications
- Tissue Or Bone Grafts
- Bonding
Scaling & Root Planing
This procedure involves removing plaque buildup from below the gum line and smoothing rough spots on tooth roots where bacteria can hide. It helps reduce pocket depths between teeth and gums, allowing the tissue to reattach to your teeth. Although the procedure involves discomfort, it’s an essential tool in your dental team’s arsenal against gingivitis and periodontal disease.
Medications
Dentists often prescribe medication to treat receding gums. Antibiotics can fight against bacterial infections that help trigger the recession, while anti-inflammatory drugs help reduce swelling and fight off any further tooth loss.
Dentists may also use medicated mouth rinses in more severe cases to help keep pathogens at bay. There are also topical ointments that you can apply directly to the soft tissue, as well as medicated toothpaste designed to reduce inflammation.
Gum & Bone Grafts
Sometimes, your dentist may recommend tissue grafts if your gums have receded too far away from your roots, or you lost too much bone mass due to periodontal disease. During this procedure, healthy tissue will be taken from other areas of your mouth or body to cover exposed roots or build up lost bone mass around them.
Bonding
Bonding involves the application of composite resin sealant to protect exposed gum lines and roots. The process is relatively non-invasive and typically only requires one visit to the dentist. Bonding can provide quick relief from gum pain and discomfort.
This treatment can also prevent further damage to your teeth and gums, as it helps to create a protective barrier against plaque accumulation. Ultimately, bonding can help restore the appearance of healthy gums and keep your oral health in check.
Stop Gum Disease In Its Tracks
Receding gums can be an uncomfortable condition affecting your oral health and self-confidence. Fortunately, you can catch any signs of trouble early with proper preventative care, such as regular brushing, flossing, and dental visits. Pro Smile Dental Care, which serves Danville, CA, offers a variety of treatment options for receding gums. If you live in the East Bay and think you may have receding gums, don’t hesitate to contact us today for an assessment. Our dentist can advise you on the best course of action for treating your particular case.
