Building Confidence from the Gum Up
Gum recession, a prevalent dental concern, involves the gradual withdrawal of soft gum tissue from the tooth roots, often exposing the root surface. This not only affects the visual aesthetics of the smile but also presents functional challenges. With receding gums, tooth roots become susceptible to damage and decay, resulting in heightened sensitivity to temperature changes in foods and beverages.
Without intervention, gum recession can lead to additional oral health issues such as gum disease, tooth loss, and even jawbone deterioration. At Greater Phoenix Periodontics & Implants, our periodontist, Dr. Char Cravatta, specializes in advanced gum recession treatment, providing effective solutions to prevent further complications and preserve overall dental health.
Common Causes of Gum Recession
- Aggressive tooth brushing
- Tobacco use
- Periodontal (gum) disease
- Gum tissue trauma or Thin gum tissue
- Genetic predisposition
- Crooked teeth or misaligned bite
- Insufficient preventive care
- Hormonal fluctuations
What to Expect from Gum Recession Treatment
Gum grafts are necessary when gum recession exposes tooth roots, leaving them vulnerable to damage, decay, and sensitivity. If left untreated, gum recession can compromise the smile’s aesthetics and lead to further oral health issues such as gum disease and tooth loss. Gum grafting is crucial as it restores lost gum tissue, covering the exposed roots and protecting against future complications. During the gum grafting surgery, Dr. Cravatta begins by thoroughly numbing the area with local anesthesia for complete comfort.
Then, the graft tissue, either sourced from your palate or a donor site, is carefully placed over the areas of recession and secured in position. Over time, the grafted tissue integrates with the existing gum tissue, promoting healing and restoring gum health. With proper post-operative care, gum grafting can effectively enhance the smile’s function and aesthetics while preventing further gum recession and associated oral health issues.
The Importance of Regular Check-Ups for Gum Recession
Regular check-ups to monitor gum recession are vital for maintaining optimal oral health. Early detection enables prompt treatment, preventing complications like tooth sensitivity, gum disease, and eventual tooth loss. Timely intervention preserves gum integrity, safeguards teeth, and ensures a healthy smile.
Treatment options, spanning from non-surgical approaches like scaling and root planing to advanced surgical techniques such as gum grafting, effectively restore gum health and halt the progression of recession. Seeking treatment from our experienced periodontist, Dr. Chad Cravatta, for gum recession enhances oral health and promotes overall well-being.
