Receding gums

You may be familiar with the term receding gums, also referred to as gingival recession. What this condition basically consists of is gums receding upwards, until some of the gum tissue is lost. When this happens, the roots of the teeth are exposed. Without the gums to protect the root, the teeth are more sensitive and more susceptible to decay and even tooth loss. Most patients find this condition to be unattractive, but if left untreated it can actually cause further damage to the teeth and gums.

A variety of factors can contribute to a person developing receding gums. Genetics and the aging process can all be contributing factors. However, with extra care this condition can often be prevented. Steps you can take to prevent gingival recession include regular brushing and flossing with a soft- bristle brush. Brushing too aggressively or with a toothbrush that is too rough can irritate your gums and worsen this condition. However, plaque and tartar build up underneath the gumline can lead to gum disease and further deterioration of the gum tissues, so it’s important to keep plaque at bay. Maintain regular visits with your family dentist for routine cleanings and checkups; if receding gums are caught early enough, there is a greater chance of successful treatment.

If your gums have already begun to recede, you will be happy to know that there are many effective treatment options to halt and repair the damage. A deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is often a first line of defence against gum disease and receding gums. In this treatment, special instruments are carefully used to clean below the gumline. Plaque and bacteria which could be causing the gums to recede are removed, allowing the gum tissue to heal.

When significant portions of gum tissue are already damaged, a gum graft may be necessary. During this procedure, small pieces of tissue are removed from other healthy areas of the mouth and justly fused to the gum tissue surrounding the tooth. This will serve to protect the root of the tooth from exposure.

If you live in the Grande Prairie area and are experiencing receding gums,give us a call to book a visit. We have successfully treated many cases of receding gums, and can assess you to develop a treatment plan to get your smile healthy again.