What causes gum recession?
- Periodontal disease – Erodes the jaw bone around teeth with subsequent gum recessions
- Abnormal tooth position – Teeth that stand out are often not protected by jawbone on the outside and are vulnerable to gums receding
- Hereditary thin, fragile or insufficient gum tissue – Vulnerable to trauma and subsequent gum recessions
- Overaggressive brushing – Scrubbing that wears away the gum
- Eating disorders from self-induced vomiting – Acid erosion eating away at teeth and gums
- Grinding of the teeth (bruxism) – Damages the teeth and supporting jawbone with subsequent gum recessions
- Piercings in the lip or tongue – Traumatising the gum
- Orthodontic movement of teeth – Pushing the teeth out of the supporting jawbone
How are gum recessions treated?
We first start your treatment by addressing the problem which caused the gum recession i.e. treating gum infection, correcting tooth position, correcting wrong brushing techniques etc.
We then treat the issue by repositioning the gums (“Pulling the gums up”) and/or using gum grafts. Gum grafts are done with the patient’s own tissue (taking gum from the roof of the mouth) or by using a gum substitute like AlloDerm®.
What are the benefits of treating gum recessions?
Restoring lost gum tissue can reduce further recession and bone loss, cover exposed tooth roots (to protect them from decay), reduce tooth sensitivity and improves the appearance of a smile.
No matter if treatment is needed to improve function or aesthetics, you’ll receive the benefits of both: improved periodontal health and an improved smile. Both are key to smiling, eating and speaking with comfort and confidence.
