Receding Gums: What’s the Solution?

Periodontal disease, a severe gum infection, is a common cause of receding gums. Other causes could be poor oral care, brushing aggressively, or using a hard-bristle toothbrush to clean your teeth. Age, dental injuries, crooked teeth, genetics, and oral piercings can also contribute to gum recession issues. Dr. Garazi will evaluate your teeth and gums to determine the cause of the recession so we can recommend the appropriate treatment.  

Increased sensitivity is a common sign of gum recession as more of your tooth root is exposed. If you have periodontal disease, your gums may appear red, inflamed, and bleed when brushing your teeth. Receding gums can make your teeth appear longer. Your teeth may also discolor due to this condition.

Unfortunately, yes. Receding gums can throw your smile off balance as your teeth will appear much longer than normal. Also, your tooth roots will be exposed, which detracts from your smile’s aesthetics. Gum recession puts your tooth roots at risk of infection, damage, or decay. Over time, the support structure of your teeth can become so weak that your teeth can come loose and fall out, leaving gaping holes in your smile.

Gum recession treatment hinges on the cause of your condition. Treatment could be as simple as changing your toothbrush or brushing techniques. If your gum recession is caused by periodontal disease, Dr. Garazi will review your treatment options, depending on the severity of your condition. These options include deep cleaning, antibiotics, gum grafts, laser therapy, and the Pinhole Surgical Technique to reposition gums over teeth.

Gum recession puts you at greater risk of decay, bacterial infections, and gum disease. You may be unable to eat certain foods due to sensitivity and painful chewing. Left untreated, gum recession can, over time, lead to tooth-root damage, loose teeth, and premature tooth loss.