When oral health deteriorates, the problem of gum recession can be encountered. Moreover, as time passes, the situation can worsen and even result in tooth loss. However, it is possible to take precautions and get treated before it progresses further. So, what is gum recession? What causes gum recession?
Gum recession (periodontitis) is the name given to the wearing away or pulling back of the tissue surrounding the tooth, exposing the tooth’s root. Upon examination, it is seen that gaps (pockets) form between the teeth and the gum line. These pockets create an environment for bacteria to accumulate, and if necessary treatment is not provided, the condition can get much worse. In advanced cases, the supporting tissues and bone structure of the teeth can be seriously damaged. When the final stage is reached, the probability of tooth loss is quite high.
In cases such as swelling on the gums and an infected tooth, you can benefit from our root canal treatment service.
Gum recession is a common oral health problem. The reasons that increase your risk of experiencing this problem are as follows:
Certain medications can cause dry mouth. If you cannot produce enough saliva, your mouth becomes dry. As a result, the tissues in the mouth become vulnerable to infections and injuries. Dry mouth is also one of the factors that cause gum recession.
According to research, gum recession is most common in individuals aged forty and over. Therefore, it is also considered one of the signs of aging. As an additional piece of information, gum recession occurs more in men than in women. In case of tooth loss, implant treatment is absolutely necessary.
Under normal conditions, the gums are firm and pale pink. They fit snugly around the teeth. In the case of gum recession, the following symptoms are observed:
Individuals should go for regular dental check-ups. Individuals who notice they are experiencing any of the symptoms of gum recession should see a dentist as soon as possible. Hayat Dental Clinic provides service during daytime and evening hours. The sooner the intervention is made, the higher the probability of reversing the damage.
The dentist will perform an examination to determine if the patient has gum recession and at what level and severity it is being experienced. During the examination process, questions will be asked about topics such as the use of certain medications that may cause dry mouth or smoking. At the same time, the individual’s medical history will be checked to identify factors that may contribute to the symptoms of gum recession. Afterwards;
After these steps, the dentist can assign a diagnosis and a stage according to the level of the problem, the difficulty of the treatment, and the potential risks.
Gum recession treatment can be performed by dentists or dental hygienists. The goal of the treatment is to thoroughly clean the pockets around the tooth and to prevent further damage to the surrounding bone. For the treatment process to be successful, it is of great importance to follow a good daily oral care routine. Conditions that could negatively affect dental health should be controlled, and the use of tobacco products like cigarettes should be stopped.
If the gum recession problem is not yet at an advanced level, treatment can also be applied with non-surgical methods. For this, scraping the bacteria and tartar from the tooth surface can be done with the help of laser or ultrasonic devices.
Smoothing the root surface can prevent the formation of bacteria and tartar. Topical or oral antibiotics used for this purpose help to control the bacterial infection.
If the individual has an advanced level of gum recession, dental surgery may be necessary during the treatment process. In this context, pocket reduction surgery, also known as flap surgery, can be performed, which is known as gum recession surgery. The dentist makes small incisions in the gums, so a section of the gum tissue can be lifted back. It can also expose the roots for more effective cleaning and root planing.
How can gum recession be treated at home?
Teeth should be brushed regularly, at least twice a day. The brushing process should last for about two minutes. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush, plaque and debris from the teeth and along the gum line should be cleaned.
How can gum recession be prevented?
The best precaution that can be taken to prevent gum recession is to go for regular check-ups with a dentist. This way, the care the tooth needs is provided in a timely manner. Even if there are no apparent symptoms, the dentist can detect the problem early, and the process can be managed with minimal damage.
Can gum recession be managed with mouthwash?
With mouthwash, areas that cannot be reached while brushing or flossing can be accessed. It is an effective method for bad breath, inflammation, and the healing of gum recession. For the problem of gum recession, if an effective treatment method is not applied in a timely manner, it can lead to tooth loss.
