Gingival recession (gingival recession) is a pathologic change where the edge of the gum tissue surrounding the teeth shrinks, exposing the root of the tooth. This problem not only has cosmetic implications, but can also lead to a variety of negative oral health consequences.
In addition to the appearance of the smile, gum recession can cause problems such as increased tooth sensitivity. Exposed tooth roots become more sensitive to temperature changes and food irritants.
GUM RECESSION SYMPTOMS
The symptoms of gum recession can vary slightly depending on the stage and severity of the disease. However, the main signs of recession include:
- Exposed tooth roots. One of the main symptoms of gum recession is a decrease in the size of the gum tissue, resulting in visible exposure of the tooth roots. Teeth may appear longer, and the edge of the gum may be set back from its natural position.
- Tooth sensitivity. The roots of teeth contain thousands of microscopic canals that connect the dental cavity to the nervous system. When these canals are open, changes in temperature or food irritants can cause pain or discomfort.
- Gum recession can lead to inflammation and increased bleeding of the gums. Blood may be noticed while brushing your teeth or chewing hard foods.
- Bacteria and plaque buildup in the area of receding gums can lead to stale breath.
- Gum recession can have cosmetic consequences as it causes a change in the appearance of the smile. The exposed tooth roots and gum margin can make the smile look less attractive.
- Gum recession should be treated right away. It is a good idea to see a dentist when the first symptoms appear. If not addressed in time, the pathology will worsen and lead to serious consequences such as tooth loss.
CAUSES OF GUM RECESSION
Gum recession has many causes. The most serious is periodontal disease. Other causes include:
- Plaque and calculus.
- Improper bite.
- Some patients may have a genetic predisposition to developing gum recession. They have an insufficient amount of gum tissue or weak gum structure.
- Excessive brushing of the mouth can damage the gums.
- Soft tissue trauma. This occurs mainly as a result of poor-quality dentures. If the crown is installed incorrectly, it will overhang the tooth and traumatize the gum. Unprofessional tooth extraction also provokes the disease.
- Improper orthodontic treatment.
- Serious inflammatory process.
Certain medical conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and immune deficiency conditions can increase the risk of developing gum recession.
By seeking timely medical attention, the problem of gum recession is often resolved easily and completely.
GUM RECESSION: TREATMENT
In modern dentistry, the treatment of gum recession depends on the cause and extent of the condition. Several treatment options are possible:
- A dentist can perform a professional teeth cleaning to remove plaque and calculus, which can lead to gum inflammation. This can help stop the progression of recession and improve gum health.
- Therapeutic treatment for gum inflammation. Prescribed when recession is accompanied by inflammation. The dentist may prescribe antibacterial drugs, antibiotics or rinses with antiseptic solutions.
- Surgical methods. Used when gum recession is severe or progressive. Then the doctor may prescribe gumplasty. During the procedure, the surgeon transplants tissue from another part of the oral cavity to the place of the bare tooth roots. Or perform a periodontal regeneration procedure (restoration of lost tissue).
Treatment options for gum recession should always be discussed with your dentist. How quickly gum recession treatment will have a positive effect depends on the specifics of each case. And also on how accurately and correctly the patient adheres to the recommendations.