Gum Recessions
Also called receding gums, this is a condition where the gums shrink away from the tooth surface, resulting in the white part of the tooth (crown) appearing to be longer.
Just like hair and skin, our gums go through changes as we grow older. A small amount of gum recession is considered normal, however accelerated gum recessions are undesirable. Gum recessions have a number of causes, such as:
- Aggressive horizontal brushing, possibly with a hard bristled toothbrush
- Past gum disease, where the gums have now shrunk
- Past orthodontic treatment, where the teeth have been moved too extensively from its original positions
- Those with thin gums called thin biotype gingiva which are less resistant to brushing traumas
- Those who may have a clenching or grinding habits
- Tongue and lip piercings can rub and irritate the gums, wearing the gum tissue away.
- Aggressive horizontal brushing, possibly with a hard bristled toothbrush
- Past gum disease, where the gums have now shrunk
- Past orthodontic treatment, where the teeth have been moved too extensively from its original positions
- Those with thin gums called thin biotype gingiva which are less resistant to brushing traumas
- Those who may have a clenching or grinding habits
- Tongue and lip piercings can rub and irritate the gums, wearing the gum tissue away.
Gum recessions gradually worsen over time, resulting in gums shrinking away from the root surface, exposing the dentine underneath. Dentine wears faster than enamel, and often a notch or wedge shaped defect at the neck of tooth becomes noticeable. This area becomes the weakest link of the tooth, which is more prone to further decay, dental sensitivity, and even nerve exposure needing root canal treatment or extraction.
Unfortunately once gum recession has occurred, your gums do not grow back naturally. It is better to take preventive measures to minimise gum recessions. These may include:
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush, or an electric toothbrush with a built in pressure sensor
- Brush your teeth gently using the correct technique
- Keep your gums healthy and eliminate gum disease by practicing good home oral care, and visiting your dentist regularly
- Gingival graft can be of benefit. Different types of grafting materials are available (artificial or from your own) not only repairs the wounded area, but also helps to prevent additional infection.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush, or an electric toothbrush with a built in pressure sensor
- Brush your teeth gently using the correct technique
- Keep your gums healthy and eliminate gum disease by practicing good home oral care, and visiting your dentist regularly
- Gingival graft can be of benefit. Different types of grafting materials are available (artificial or from your own) not only repairs the wounded area, but also helps to prevent additional infection.
Our dentists have undertaken many post-graduation courses such as Dr. Pat Allen and Geistlich to successfully carry out the intricate gum grafting procedures. Ultimately, preventing gum recession is much easier and less costly than actual treatments for receding gums. Call us at the first sign of trouble if you notice tooth sensitivity to hot or cold, or your tooth appears longer. Our friendly team at Hearts Dental can help identify the cause to your receding gums, and carry out appropriate grafting treatment if necessary.
Dr. Qing Guo Believes
BETTER HEALTH COMES FROM BETTER TEETH