Stop Gum Recession: Explore the Latest Treatments for Healthier Gums

Gum recession impacts not just the beauty of your smile but also how healthy your teeth and gums are. This problem occurs when the gum tissue that surrounds your teeth draws back from the teeth or wears away. The result is that your teeth and their roots are more exposed. This can result in discomfort, heightened sensitivity, and a greater risk of tooth decay. Fortunately, modern advances in periodontistry have made it possible to treat gum disease effectively. 

Causes of Gum Recession

Gum recession can be caused by a number of different things, including:

• Gum disease
• Brushing too aggressively
• Poor oral hygiene
• Genetics
• Tobacco usage
• Hormonal changes
• Clenching or grinding teeth
• Misaligned bite
• Crooked teeth

Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical treatment for gum disease, and it can help with receding gums. This procedure is often referred to as deep cleaning. We all experience plaque buildup on our teeth; when plaque isn’t removed, it turns into tartar. Much of the plaque that builds up can be removed when you brush your teeth, but tartar can only be removed at your dentist’s office. Moreover, plaque that settles deep between your teeth and under the gum line can’t be removed at home. 

Deep cleaning removes the plaque and tartar trapped below the gum line. During this procedure, the dentist and their team use a vibrating tool for the scaling process. This removes the tartar that has piled above and below the gumline. For planing, a tool is used to gently push aside the gum tissue to expose the surface of your teeth’s roots so they can be cleaned and disinfected. 

Surgical Intervention for Receding Gums

In severe scenarios, surgical intervention may be needed to treat receding gums. For example, gum grafting involves removing a piece of thin tissue from one area of your mouth and placing it in the area where gum recession is occurring. The gum graft will cover any exposed roots to restore a healthier gumline. 

A more minimally invasive option may be the Pinhole Surgical Technique. This procedure uses a needle to create a small hole in your gum tissue. Special instruments are then used to gently loosen the tissue and slide it onto the area where your gums are receding. 

Emerging Gum Treatment Method

Laser-assisted gum therapy is an exciting emerging treatment option for receding gums. In this procedure, a periodontist removes diseased gum tissue using lasers. With this method, the regeneration of healthy gum tissue is possible. 

Preventative Care

The best way to keep your gums healthy is never to let them become infected. We know this is easier said than done, but diligent at-home oral hygiene can go a long way to preventing gum disease and promoting dental health and hygiene. Brushing your teeth and gums twice a day and flossing at night can help keep your teeth and gums as healthy as possible. Equally important, visit your dentist twice yearly for checkups and dental cleanings. 

Gum Treatment For Receding Gums in Stockbridge, Georgia

Are you concerned about receding gums? Dr. Jessica Williams at Williams Dental Studio in Stockbridge, Georgia, is here to help. Call her office today at (770) 506-2443 or request an appointment using the online form.

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