Receding gums can take a toll on how you feel about your smile. Let us restore your confidence with gum recession treatment at Midtown Dental Services. During your visit, our dentist will examine your mouth to determine which treatment is best for you. Give us a call today at 212-697-3946 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Mark Jacobson and learn more about gum recession treatment in New York City, New York.
What Is Gum Recession?
Gum recession, also known as gingival recession, is a dental condition characterized by the gradual loss of gum tissue that surrounds the teeth. In a healthy mouth, the gums form a protective barrier around the teeth, keeping them securely in place and safeguarding the sensitive root surfaces. However, when gum recession occurs, this protective barrier starts to recede, leaving the tooth roots exposed. This can result in a host of problems, including tooth sensitivity, an increased risk of decay, inflammation and easy bleeding of the gums, halitosis (bad breath), exposed tooth roots and an undesirable aesthetic appearance.
What Causes Gum Recession?
Several factors can contribute to gum recession. The most common cause is gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, which results from the buildup of plaque and tartar on teeth. Other contributing factors include:
- Aggressive tooth brushing
- Teeth grinding and clenching (bruxism)
- Misaligned teeth
- Hormonal changes
- Genetic factors
It is essential to identify the underlying cause of gum recession to determine the most appropriate treatment approach. Our dentist will examine your mouth and discuss your lifestyle factors with you to determine the cause of your gum recession and which types of treatment will be most effective for you.
Gum Recession Treatment Options
The choice of gum recession treatment depends on the severity of the condition and its underlying causes. Here are some common treatment options:
- Nonsurgical Approaches: Mild cases of gum recession may be treated with nonsurgical methods such as scaling and root planing (deep cleaning), improved oral hygiene practices and using desensitizing toothpaste. These methods aim to reduce inflammation and promote gum tissue reattachment.
- Surgical Procedures: For more advanced cases, surgical interventions may be necessary. Common procedures include gum grafting, where tissue from another part of the mouth or a donor source is used to cover the exposed root surfaces. This helps to restore the protective gum barrier and improve aesthetics.
- Orthodontic Treatment: In some instances, orthodontic treatment may be recommended to correct misaligned teeth, as proper tooth alignment can prevent further gum recession.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Patients are often advised to make lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking or being fitted for a night guard to protect against bruxism. These changes can help improve overall oral health and prevent further gum recession.
- Routine Dental Care: Regular dental checkups and cleanings are crucial in detecting gum recession early and monitoring its progress.
Make An Appointment
Contact our team today for more information about gum recession and to schedule your appointment with Dr. Jacobson!