Avoiding Receding Gum Lines
Dear Patients,
Did you know your teeth are protected not only by your enamel but also your gums? “The gums serve to protect the underlying root structure of the teeth. When the gum line recedes the roots become exposed,” said Dr. Irwin. “This enables bacteria to reach this underlying root structure and can potentially result in serious complications,” continued Dr. Irwin.
The main cause of receding gums is typically poor oral hygiene and genetics. While it is easy for this condition to go unnoticed, one of the first signs can be being tooth sensitivity. Additional signs may include gingivitis, an inflammation of the gum. If left untreated gingivitis can progress into periodontitis, which according to the ADA affects almost half of the U.S. adult population.
“The first line of defense against receding gums is proper oral hygiene habits that are coupled with an annual cleaning and exam,” said Dr. Irwin. As always, our supportive staff is here to answer any questions you may have; including helping you find out your policy’s maximum benefit allowance. To schedule a general cleaning and exam please call: 973-667-1567.
Best Wishes,
Brighter Smiles Dental – The Office of Dr. Sylvia Irwin
Treating Receding Gum Lines
As Dr. Irwin mentioned the first line of defense is maintaining proper oral hygiene habits that are coupled with routine dental cleanings and examinations. However, there are treatment options available should gum recession occur. These include:
1. Scaling & Root Planning
Routine dental cleanings and examinations are designed to address the surface of your teeth. During scaling and root planning procedures, plaque and tartar buildup are removed from the underlying root structure, beneath the gum line. This can be done in office and is considered to be a minimally invasive, non-surgical procedure.
2. Pocket Depth Reduction
Considered a surgical procedure, an incision is made to remove bacteria and plaque build up. Gum tissue is also realigned to facilitate easier cleaning and protection of the underlying root structure.
3. Regeneration
This procedure couples the techniques outlined in Pocket Depth Reduction along with a combination of therapies designed to stimulate health tissue growth. This may include using membrane tissues, bone grafting or an introduction of protein.
4. Soft Tissue Grafts
A more complex surgical procedure, this involves transplanting healthy tissue (usually from the roof of the patient’s mouth) along the receding gum area. This is done to help prevent further recession, with the success of the procedure extremely dependent on the patient following through with proper oral hygiene care.
