What is Gum Recession and how can it be prevented?

What is receding gums?

Receding gums also known as Gum recession, is the exposure of the roots of the teeth caused by a loss of gum tissue surrounding the crown of the tooth. Gum recession is a common problem in adults over the age of 40. Age, Smoking, Gum disease  and vigorous tooth brushing are the main causes gum recession.

What problems does gum recession cause?

Many people don’t even notice that their gums have receded, because it is a gradual process. However, over time, an exposed tooth root can not only look ugly, but can cause tooth sensitivity, especially when eating cold or hot foods – unfortunately our usual guilty pleasures such as ice cream or a warm Starbucks coffee then become an uncomfortable experience.

Gum recession also causes an aesthetic problem. Exposure of the roots causes our teeth to look discoloured and yellow around the gum margin.

Who does gum recession effect?

Gum recession can effect anyone at any age but it is most common in people over 30 with poor oral hygiene and smokers.

What treatments can be carried out to resolve this?

Unfortunately once the gum as receded it cannot grow back, but there are treatments available at Perfect Smile Spa to prevent tooth sensitivity and improve the appearance of the teeth.

Tooth coloured composite fillings: A composite filling is a tooth-coloured plastic and glass mixture used to restore decayed teeth. Composites are also used for cosmetic improvements of the smile by changing the colour of the teeth or reshaping disfigured teeth. Once the exposure of the root is covered by the white filling – it forms a protective layer which can reduce tooth sensitivity.

Gum coloured Fillings: Pink coloured fillings are best used when only certain teeth have root exposure as opposed to all the teeth. The pink filling material is applied to the exposed root- giving the appearance that this in fact the gum. This a benefit as the tooth will remain looking the same size as the other teeth that are not effected.

Gum Surgery During the procedure, a flap of skin is cut at the roof of your mouth(palate) and tissue from under the flap, called subepithelial connective tissue, is removed and then stitched to the gum tissue surrounding the exposed root. After the connective tissue — the graft — has been removed from under the palatal flap, the flap is stitched back down.

Although there are treatments that can be carried out to cover up the damage of gum recession. The main priority is PREVENTION as opposed to treatment.

How to prevent gum recession?

Quit smoking – Smoking reduces the blood supply to the gums and contains harmful chemicals which irritates the gums – this causes them to recede  and could lead to gum disease which also causes bone loss.

Use an Electric toothbrush or a soft bristle toothbrush – Many up to date electric toothbrushes such as oral b contain a light or beep which will let us know if we are brushing too hard. Brushing too hard is another cause of receding gums.

Visit your dentist and Hygienist regularly – Regular visits to your dentist and hygienist is important for not only checking the health or your teeth and gums but they can also provide you with brushing and techniques and carry out regular cleanings to remove plaque and tartar which also irritate the gum.

Award winning Cosmetic Dentist, Dr Jas Sagoo at Perfect Smile Spa has treated hundreds of receded gum for patients over the past 19 years.  He is highly skilled and experienced and carries out this type of treatment every day.  He enjoys changing people’s lives and improving their confidence just by changing their smile.

If you would like more information then our Cosmetic Dentist at Perfect Smile Spa can certainly help you.  Situated in Essex we are easily accessible by all means of transport.

Perfect Smile Spa is a cosmetic and general dental practice.  Our patients come from all over the world to have treatment with us.  Call our Cosmetic Dentist on 01708 442114 or email:care@perfectsmilespa.co.ukWhat is Gum Recession and how can it be prevented? was last modified: July 2nd, 2018 by Dr Jas Sagoo