Gum Recession Treatment: Solutions to Restore Your Gums

 Gum recession, a common dental issue, occurs when the gum tissue surrounding your teeth pulls back or wears away, exposing more of the tooth, or even the root. This can lead to a range of problems, from increased sensitivity and an altered smile to more serious issues like tooth decay and eventual tooth loss. 

If you’ve noticed your gums receding, it’s a sign that it’s time to explore gum recession treatment options. The good news is that various solutions are available to restore your gums and protect your oral health.

What is Gum Recession?

Imagine your gums as the protective collars around your teeth. When these collars begin to shrink or pull away, it’s known as gum recession. This exposes the underlying tooth root, which isn’t covered by hard enamel like the crown of your tooth. The exposed root is softer and more vulnerable to decay, sensitivity, and damage. Gum recession can affect one tooth or several, and often, it’s a gradual process that many people don’t notice until it becomes more advanced or symptoms appear. In Australia, dental professionals frequently encounter this condition due to a combination of factors, some of which are explored below.

Signs and Symptoms of Gum Recession

Recognising the early signs of gum recession is crucial for timely intervention. While the most obvious sign is visible longer teeth or exposed roots, other indicators include:

• Tooth Sensitivity: This is often the first symptom people notice. Exposed tooth roots contain tiny tubules that lead to the nerve, making them highly sensitive to hot, cold, sweet, or even touch.
• Teeth Looking Longer Than Usual: As the gum recedes, more of the tooth surface becomes visible, making the tooth appear elongated.
• Bleeding Gums: While often associated with gum disease, bleeding can also occur with receding gums, especially during brushing or flossing.
• Swollen or Red Gums: Inflammation can sometimes accompany gum recession, particularly if gum disease is a contributing factor.
• Pain or Discomfort near the Gum Line: This can range from a dull ache to a sharp pain, particularly after eating or drinking.
• Loose Teeth: In advanced stages, where significant bone support is lost due to ongoing gum recession, teeth may become loose.
• Bad Breath: Bacterial buildup in receding gum pockets can contribute to halitosis.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s vital to consult your dentist for an accurate diagnosis and to discuss treatment for gum recession.

Causes of Gum Recession

Gum recession isn’t usually caused by a single factor but often a combination of issues. Understanding the causes is key to both treatment and prevention. Common culprits include:

• Aggressive Tooth Brushing: Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can physically wear away gum tissue over time. Many Australians are encouraged to use a soft-bristled brush and gentle, circular motions.
• Poor Oral Hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing allow plaque and tartar to build up on and between teeth, leading to gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis). Periodontitis is a leading cause of gum recession as the infection destroys gum tissue and the bone supporting the teeth.
• Genetics: Some individuals are simply more predisposed to gum recession due to their genetic makeup, including having naturally thin gum tissue. If your parents have receding gums, you might be at higher risk.
• Tobacco Use: Smoking or using other tobacco products significantly increases the risk of gum disease and can impede the healing process of gum tissue.
• Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in female hormones during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause can make gums more sensitive and vulnerable to recession.
• Teeth Grinding (Bruxism) or Clenching: The excessive force placed on teeth from grinding or clenching can lead to gum recession and even bone loss.
• Misaligned Teeth or Crooked Bite: When teeth don’t come together properly, certain areas can experience excessive force, leading to the wearing away of gum tissue. Also, misaligned teeth can be harder to clean effectively, promoting plaque buildup.
• Piercings: Lip or tongue piercings can irritate gum tissue, leading to chronic rubbing and eventual recession.
• Trauma to Gum Tissue: Injuries to the mouth can cause sudden gum recession in the affected area.

Non-Surgical Treatments for Gum Recession

For mild to moderate cases of gum recession, dentists often recommend non-surgical approaches. These treatments aim to address the underlying cause, improve oral hygiene, and manage symptoms without invasive procedures. Non-surgical gum treatment options include:

• Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning): This is a fundamental treatment, especially when gum recession is caused by periodontal disease. During this procedure, your dentist or hygienist thoroughly removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line (scaling). Root planing then smooths the tooth root surfaces to remove bacterial toxins and help the gums reattach to the teeth. This is often done under local anaesthesia to minimise discomfort.
• Antibiotics: If a bacterial infection is present, your dentist may prescribe oral antibiotics or apply a topical antibiotic gel directly into the gum pockets to eliminate harmful bacteria and reduce inflammation.
• Dental Bonding: For minor recession, a tooth-coloured composite resin can be applied to the exposed tooth root. This helps to cover the exposed surface, reduce sensitivity, and improve the aesthetic appearance of the tooth, making it look less “long.”
• Orthodontics: If misaligned teeth are contributing to gum recession, orthodontic treatment (such as braces or clear aligners) can gradually move teeth into their proper positions. Once aligned, the pressure on the gums is more evenly distributed, and in some cases, the gum line may naturally improve as the surrounding tissue heals.
• Desensitising Agents/Fluoride Varnishes: To manage tooth sensitivity, your dentist may apply desensitising agents or fluoride varnishes to the exposed root surfaces. Using desensitising toothpastes at home can also provide ongoing relief.
• Proper Brushing Technique Education: A crucial part of non-surgical treatment involves teaching patients how to brush gently and effectively with a soft-bristled toothbrush to prevent further damage.

Surgical Treatments for Severe Gum Recession

When gum recession is severe or non-surgical methods aren’t sufficient, surgical solutions for gum recession are often necessary to restore lost gum tissue and protect the teeth. These procedures are typically performed by a periodontist (a gum specialist).

• Gum Grafting (Gingival Graft): This is the most common surgical procedure for gum recession. It involves transplanting healthy gum tissue from one area of your mouth to the receded site. There are several types of gum grafts:
  • Connective Tissue Graft: This is the most common and often preferred method, especially for aesthetic areas. A small flap is created on the roof of your mouth (palate), and tissue from under this flap (subepithelial connective tissue) is removed. This connective tissue is then stitched to the receded gum area. The donor site heals naturally.
  • Free Gingival Graft: Similar to a connective tissue graft, but a small piece of tissue is removed directly from the surface of the roof of your mouth. This technique is often used when a larger area needs increased gum thickness, rather than just root coverage.
  • Pedicle Graft: In this method, a flap of gum tissue is partially cut from an area adjacent to the receded gum. This flap remains attached at one end (the pedicle) to its original blood supply and is then stretched over the exposed root and stitched into place. This method is only possible if there is sufficient gum tissue next to the receded area. The advantage is quicker healing since there’s only one surgical site.
• Flap Surgery (Pocket Reduction Surgery): If gum recession is accompanied by deep gum pockets and bone loss due to advanced periodontal disease, flap surgery may be performed. The periodontist lifts back the gum tissue to gain access to the tooth roots and bone. The area is thoroughly cleaned (scaling and root planing), and any irregular bone surfaces are smoothed. The gum tissue is then repositioned and sutured back in place, reducing the pocket depth and making it easier to clean.
• Guided Tissue Regeneration (GTR): This procedure is used when bone has been lost due to periodontitis. A small, biocompatible membrane is placed between the gum tissue and the bone. This membrane creates space, preventing gum tissue from growing into the area where bone should be, thereby allowing new bone and tissue to regenerate and support the tooth.
• Enamel Matrix Derivative Application: A special gel containing proteins found in developing tooth enamel is applied to the exposed tooth root during surgery. These proteins stimulate the growth of healthy bone and soft tissue, promoting natural regeneration.

Your periodontist will assess your individual case to determine the most appropriate surgical technique.

How to Prevent Gum Recession from Getting Worse

Prevention is always better than a cure, and this holds true for gum recession. Many causes are preventable or manageable. Here’s how you can help prevent gum recession from getting worse and maintain healthy gums:

• Practice Excellent Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Use gentle, circular motions, paying attention to the gum line, and avoid aggressive scrubbing. Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and under the gum line.
• Use the Right Tools: Always use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Consider an electric toothbrush with a pressure sensor to ensure you’re not brushing too hard.
• Regular Dental Check-ups and Cleans: Visit your dentist like dentist Toowoomba, or wherever you are located, regularly for professional cleanings and examinations. Your dentist can identify early signs of gum recession or gum disease and provide timely intervention. For some, a visit every six months is sufficient, while others may require more frequent visits.
• Address Teeth Grinding or Clenching: If you grind or clench your teeth, especially at night, your dentist may recommend a custom-fitted nightguard to protect your teeth and gums from excessive force.
• Quit Smoking and Tobacco Use: Tobacco use is detrimental to gum health. Quitting can significantly improve your gum health and the success rate of any treatments.
• Maintain a Healthy Diet: A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals supports overall oral health and gum tissue integrity.
• Monitor Oral Piercings: If you have lip or tongue piercings, be aware of their contact with your gums and teeth, as they can cause irritation and recession. Consider removing them if they are causing issues.
• Correct Misaligned Teeth: If you have crooked teeth or a bite problem, discuss orthodontic options with your dentist. Correcting alignment can improve oral hygiene and reduce uneven pressure on your gums.

What to Expect During and After Gum Recession Treatment

The experience of gum recession treatment varies depending on whether you undergo non-surgical or surgical procedures.

Non-Surgical Treatments (e.g., Scaling and Root Planing)

• During: These procedures are often done with local anaesthesia to numb the area, so you should feel minimal to no pain, possibly just some pressure or vibration. The deep cleaning can take one or more appointments depending on the severity.
• After: You may experience some sensitivity to hot and cold, and your gums might be a bit tender, swollen, or bleed slightly for a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers can manage discomfort. You’ll be advised to rinse with warm salt water and continue gentle oral hygiene. Sensitivity usually subsides within a few weeks. Your dentist will likely schedule a follow-up to check healing and provide further instructions.

Surgical Treatments (e.g., Gum Grafting)

• During: Gum graft surgery is typically performed under local anaesthesia to numb the surgical area completely, so you won’t feel pain during the procedure. Sedation options might also be available if you’re anxious. The procedure itself can be relatively quick, often less than an hour per site.
• Immediately After (First 24-48 hours): You can expect some bleeding, swelling, and discomfort at both the graft site and the donor site (if tissue was taken from your palate). Your dentist will provide pain medication, antibiotics, and specific aftercare instructions. You’ll likely use gauze to manage any bleeding and apply ice packs to reduce swelling. A soft, cool diet is recommended, and you should avoid brushing or flossing directly on the surgical site. Avoid strenuous activities.
• First Week: Discomfort and swelling should gradually decrease. Continue with soft foods. You’ll be instructed on gentle rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash or warm salt water. Stitches are often dissolvable or removed at a follow-up appointment, usually around one to two weeks after surgery. It’s crucial to avoid disturbing the graft and to gently clean other areas of your mouth.
• Weeks 2-4 and Beyond: Healing continues, and sensitivity should diminish. You can gradually reintroduce more solid foods as comfort allows, but avoid hard, crunchy, or spicy items until cleared by your periodontist. Your periodontist will monitor the graft’s integration and advise when you can resume normal brushing and flossing at the treated site. Full healing of the soft tissue usually takes one to two weeks, but complete integration with underlying tissue can take several months.

Throughout the recovery process, diligent adherence to your dentist’s post-operative instructions is paramount for successful healing and long-term results.

Conclusion

Gum recession is a significant oral health concern that should not be ignored. While it can lead to uncomfortable symptoms and serious dental problems, the good news is that effective gum recession treatment options are available. From non-surgical deep cleanings and bonding to advanced surgical procedures like gum grafting, modern dentistry offers solutions to restore your gum health, protect your teeth, and enhance your smile.

Address Your Gum Concerns

If you suspect you have receding gums or are experiencing any related symptoms, don’t wait for the problem to worsen. The sooner gum recession is addressed, the more effective and less invasive the treatment is likely to be.

Consult with your dental professional today to discuss your concerns and explore the best treatment for gum recession for your individual needs. A healthy smile starts with healthy gums!

Source: Gum Recession Treatment: Solutions to Restore Your Gums