Receding gums is a common problem that can affect your overall dental health. Here, the gums pull away from the teeth, exposing the dental roots. This leads to the formation of pockets, where bacteria, plaque, and tartar can reside, causing periodontal issues. If this is left untreated, it can lead to jawbone erosion and even tooth loss.
Before understanding how to treat receding gum, you should know the reasons behind the issue. Many causes, like poor dental hygiene, brushing too hard, ageing, etc., can cause receding gums. You would not know that your gums are receding because no pain is associated with it. Your teeth and gums might feel sensitive, but that is something most people tend to ignore. This is why it is essential to visit your dentist in Chelmsford at least twice a year for regular checkups.
Things You Can Do About Receding Gums
The first thing that you should do to improve the situation is to contact your dentist in Chelmsford. He would check your conditions and let you know the best treatments. If you have bacteria in the gum pockets, they might start with deep cleaning, which involves scaling and root planing. Receding gums might slow down after the bacteria is removed from the gum pockets. To maintain the results, brush your teeth gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush. You should never miss out on flossing and go for teeth cleaning sessions at your dentist every six months.
The Surgical procedure
Severe cases of receding gums cannot get treated by deep cleaning, and surgery is the only process that can help you. If bacteria is too deep below your gum line, here are a few surgical procedures that your dentist might consider:
- Flap surgery- Herein, your dentist will make a small incision in your gum tissue and lift it to remove any plaque. Once done, they would secure the flap back in place.
- Gum graft- A dental surgeon will take gum tissues from the top of your mouth and surgically place them in the receding area. It is efficient in protecting your jawbones and teeth from further damage in the future.
- Bonding- Herein, a gum-coloured resin will be placed on the affected area. Along with curing receding gums, it protects your teeth roots from sensitivity.
Anybody can have gum recession, even if you have a good oral hygiene routine. Ageing and hereditary are some of the leading causes of this oral issue, which is not under your control. There is no other way to stop receding gums apart from surgery, but deep cleaning can efficiently slow down the process. If you witness sensitive teeth, bleeding gums, or notice your gums pulling away, these can be the signs of receding gums. In such instances, you should contact your dentist right away.
