Happy smiling handsome Asian man, his dentist and assistant in medical masks showing thumbs-up after finishing treatment
Gum recession is a common dental problem that often appears as we age. It’s an issue where the margin of the gum tissue surrounding the teeth wears away, or pulls back, exposing more of the tooth or its root. This can cause damage to the supporting bone and lead to tooth loss if left untreated. Fortunately, there are several dentist-approved methods for treating gum recession.
One popular treatment method is scaling and root planing. During this non-surgical procedure, plaque and tartar from below your gum line are carefully removed, and rough spots on your tooth root are made smooth again. This helps remove bacteria and gives your gums a chance to heal and reattach themselves to your teeth.
Another commonly recommended treatment is a surgical procedure known as pocket depth reduction. In this process, an oral surgeon folds back read the complete guide affected gum tissue, removes harmful bacteria from pockets that have formed between your teeth and gums before securing the tissue in place over your tooth roots.
If you’ve lost a significant amount of bone due to gum recession, regenerative procedures may be necessary. These involve grafting bone or tissue-stimulating proteins into areas where it has been lost to help regenerate bone and tissue naturally over time.
Soft-tissue grafts are another effective way to combat gum recession. There are three types: connective-tissue grafts (the most common type), free gingival grafts (used mostly for people with thin gums), pedicle (or lateral) grafts (for those who still have plenty of good-quality gum tissue near their exposed roots). The type chosen will depend on individual circumstances but all aim at reinforcing thin gums or filling in areas where they have receded.
Lastly, some dentists might recommend applying antibacterial mouth rinse containing chlorhexidine or using specific toothpaste which contains triclosan – both proven to fight plaque-causing bacteria effectively.
Regardless of which treatment option you choose for treating gum recession, it is crucial to maintain good oral hygiene practices afterward. Regularly brushing and flossing your teeth, using a toothpaste approved by your dentist, and avoiding tobacco products can all help prevent gum recession from recurring.
In conclusion, there are several effective methods for treating gum recession that have been approved by dentists. These range from non-surgical procedures like scaling and root planing to surgical treatments such as pocket depth reduction or soft tissue grafts. The best method for you will depend on the severity of your gum recession, so it’s essential to consult with a dental professional who can assess your situation accurately and recommend the most suitable treatment option.
