In most cases, gum recession is caused by various types of periodontal disease, but it can also result from genetic predisposition, hormonal changes, smoking, and some types of medication. If you’ve faced this oral health issue, you have likely wondered how to fix receding gums. Continue reading to discover the range of gum recession treatments available through modern dentistry. 

 

How to Fix Receding Gums 

Methods of gum recession treatment depend on the causes of the issue. Only your doctor can determine the exact cause of the problem in your case after conducting a comprehensive examination. The most common causes of gum recession include:

• Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is primarily caused by the accumulation of plaque and tartar.
• Physical damage to the gum tissue caused by aggressive brushing 
• Insufficient oral hygiene that results in gum infection or gum disease
• Genetic predisposition
• Changes in hormone levels that make the gum tissue more sensitive (for example, during pregnancy, menopause, puberty, etc.)
• Some types of medication that cause dry mouth, which in turn leads to gum irritation and infections
• Bruxism (involuntary teeth grinding or clenching)
• Oral trauma and gum injury
• Teeth misalignment and incorrect bite
• Smoking 

Once your dentist establishes why your gums recede, they can offer you one or a combination of the following treatment methods:

 

Non-Surgical Treatment Methods of Gum Recession

• Antibiotics can be used to prevent the infection and development of gum disease and help the gum tissue heal. Often, antibiotic therapy is combined with other forms of treatment.
• Regular professional cleanings or deep cleanings are effective at removing tartar buildup above and below the gum line (in periodontal pockets), thereby helping to fight off gum infections. 
• Scaling and root planing is a procedure that aims to remove tartar below the gum line and smooth the roots of your teeth, prompting the gum tissue to reattach to them. 
• Orthodontic treatments can improve bite and tooth alignment, making it easier for patients to clean their teeth effectively on a daily basis and thus preventing plaque and tartar buildup that can cause gum disease.
• If gum recession is caused by bruxism, your dentist might recommend wearing a custom-made mouthguard at night to prevent teeth grinding and clenching. Additionally, physical therapy, counseling, and medication (muscle relaxants and antidepressants) can be effective at treating bruxism.

 

Surgical Treatment Methods of Gum Recession

• Gum grafting is a surgical technique that involves placing artificial or natural tissue into areas where gum tissue loss has occurred, prompting the surrounding gum tissue to regenerate.
• Bone grafting is used when gum disease spreads to the jawbone tissue. Similarly to gum grafting, it uses artificial or natural tissue to promote bone regeneration.
• The pinhole surgical technique is a method of repositioning the gum tissue through a small incision with special instruments. The procedure is called the Pinhole surgical technique, as it is minimally invasive and does not involve cutting and stitching. It can offer immediate cosmetic improvement and fast recovery.

 

Cosmetic Methods of Improving Gum Recession

Once the gum disease and other causes of gum recession are addressed with appropriate treatment, your dentist can offer you the following cosmetic solutions for improving the appearance of your smile:

• Dental veneers
• Dental bonding

 

Oral Hygiene and Personal Habits Improvement

Professional treatment of gum recession should always go hand in hand with the patient improving their oral hygiene and lifestyle habits on a daily basis:

• Personal oral hygiene is key when it comes to treating gum recession, especially if it is caused by periodontal disease. Brush your teeth twice a day for at least two full minutes with fluoride toothpaste, ensuring that you remove food residue and plaque along the gum line. 
• Floss every evening, cleaning each tooth on both sides, but be careful not to lacerate or hurt the gums. 
• Add a water flosser as the first step of your oral hygiene routine, as it has been proven to be effective in fighting off gum disease. You can also use your water flosser after meals to remove food particles and prevent bacterial growth throughout the day.
• Abstaining from smoking and alcohol can make gum disease treatment faster and more effective because both substances significantly slow down regeneration and can also prompt infection flare-ups.

 

Treat Gum Disease at LA Wilshire Perio

If you notice signs of gum recession, it is crucial to start treatment as soon as possible to prevent the issue from further developing. Do not hesitate to schedule an appointment with an experienced dentist at the LA Wilshire Perio dental office today to receive an evaluation and a personalized treatment plan. We are looking forward to your visit.