Gum Recession Treatment Columbus OH
"Because we believe that great dentistry and great health affects your every smile, every conversation, every meal, and every kiss profoundly"
Common Causes of Gum Recession
There are many reasons gums may recede, and while a few are genetic (and have to be treated remedially) most are related to oral health care and can be prevented or their progression halted.
1. GENETICS
Some people are more susceptible to gum disease and gum recession than others. If you have weak or thin connective tissues, your gums may slowly start to recede and detach from the tooth surface. There are several procedures (including laser surgery and soft tissue grafting) which can help repair the damage done over time.
2. Periodontal Disease
When bacteria builds up in pockets between the gums and the teeth, infection and inflammation can spread and worsen. The result is gums slowly pulling away from the teeth and receding. Left untreated, periodontal disease can result in actual loss of gum tissue, bone tissue, and teeth.
3. Tooth Brushing
Many patients are unaware that aggressive tooth brushing can contribute to gum recession. If you use a hard bristle toothbrush, incorrect technique, or a heavy hand to scrub your teeth and gums, you can damage the connective tissue and cause your gums to recede. Using only a soft-bristled toothbrush and the proper technique can help you avoid damage to your gums.
4. Misaligned Bite
An incorrect bite means teeth come together unevenly, causing excessive wear, tear, and strain on both teeth and gums. A misaligned bite that is not corrected will, over time, cause gum recession and bone loss due to the excessive force being placed on the affected areas of the mouth. The end result is tooth loss as the supporting gum tissue and bone ceases to provide enough stability.
Authentic
Patient reviews
Patient reviews
Join us because we know that trustworthiness is a perception, not a fact.
How do I know if I have Gum Recession?
Slowly progressing gum recession can be easy to miss, so stay alert for these warning signs:
- Sensitivity to cold foods and beverages
- Bleeding of the gums
- A lighter colored band on the tooth near the gumline
- A “toothier” smile with tooth roots visible
If you suspect gum recession is happening to you, contact Stoner Periodontic Specialists for an evaluation.
What are the Dangers of Gum Recession?
Significant concerns regarding progressive gum recession include:
- An aesthetically displeasing smile due to uneven, shrunken gums
- Tooth sensitivity to cold or touch stimuli
- Loss of “firm collar” tissue that surrounds the tooth and protects the underlying bone
- Formation of cavities in the root of the tooth
- Loosened or lost teeth due to extreme gum recession and bone loss
When the “collar” of attached tissue that fits tightly around your tooth and protects the root recedes, the root is exposed. The roots of your teeth are porous in nature, much like a sponge, with tiny holes and tunnels called tubules. These tiny openings can quickly be colonized by bacteria carried on food particles and by products that get past the damaged gum tissue. This invasion of bacteria causes infection, loss of mineralization of the tooth, and root cavities on exposed surfaces.
Don’t Worry…Gum Recession Can Be Treated!
Stoner Periodontic Specialists incorporates the most advanced, least invasive technologies for the correction of gum recession. In many cases, the gum can be reattached in the correct position to cover the root. With more advanced gum recession, gum grafts, transplants or acellular dermal may be used to cover the exposed root.
Pinhole surgical technique is well-documented procedure with a high success rate, but it is less commonly used due to the time and technical skill required to perform it. Dr. Stoner is specifically trained and experienced in this advanced, minimally-invasive procedure, which can deliver the fastest, most comfortable solution to gum recession and the shortest healing time.
Like laparoscopy, this form of gum treatment requires the least possible number of surgical entry points, with the work being done below the surface of the gum with minimal disruption to tissues and blood flow. The result is a rapid recovery as there is less trauma to the site and healing is extremely fast. Time in the chair is also minimal, with most procedures taking only 20-45 minutes to complete depending on the severity of the gum recession.
Schedule a Checkup to Evaluate Your Gum Recession
Contact Stoner Periodontic Specialists if you would like more information about gum recession symptoms or treating gum recession. Our trained staff can answer any and all questions you may have about gum recession, and the dental hygiene team is happy to help you with your at-home oral health plan. Contact us to schedule a dental check-up by calling our office (614) 889-8222 or by using our online Contact Form.