Receding gum is a common problem, particularly with adults over 40 years, that can be corrected. Gum disease, poor oral care, grinding & clenching of teeth, aggressive brushing, hormonal changes or heredity contribute to gum tissues wearing away, exposing the teeth or teeth roots. Proper at-home oral care combined with routine dental exam & professional cleaning helps in preventing gum disease & gum recession. If you are experiencing increased sensitivity, chronic bad breath, swollen or bleeding gums, please contact Ocean Breeze Dental Care so we can help restore your oral health. In many cases, deep cleaning with proper oral care recommended by Dr. Lee may treat gum recession to restore your oral health. If there has been excess loss of bone and pockets that are too deep, gum grafting can restore your gums & overall oral health. If left untreated, gum recession can result in tooth decay or tooth loss leading to bigger oral & overall health problems.
A gum graft, also known as a gingival graft, is a simple and relatively quick surgical procedure to correct gum recession for patients who have excess loss of bone or deep pockets that have been created as a result. Ready to learn more about gum recession, treatment & recovery?
What causes gum recession?
There are several a variety of reasons that can influence the beginning stages of gum recession including one or more of the following factors:
Anatomical. Any natural genetic predisposed condition.
Physiological. An abnormal tooth shape or position or orthodontic tooth movements.
Pathological. Too much brushing or flossing, grinding or clenching teeth, direct trauma, periodontitis, or infection.
How can I tell if I have gum recession?
Gum recedes gradually so many patients may not notice receding gums until it has progressed. Our knowledgeable & compassionate dental professionals conduct a thorough examination to detect early signs of gum recession. Gum recession can be corrected. Please contact us if you are experiencing pain, sensitivity especially when eating & drinking hot or cold food & beverages, chronic inflammation and plaque retention or root abrasion & decay.
Can receding gums be treated?
Dr. Lee may conduct deep cleanings and instruct patients on proper oral care to correct early signs of gum recession. He will recommend one of the following gum graft treatment in cases of excess bone loss or if deep pockets have formed to correct & treat gum recession to restore your healthy gums & overall oral health:
Open flap scaling & root planning: This procedure involves folding back the affected gum tissue to remove harmful bacteria from the pockets and then securing the gum tissue back in place over the tooth root, eliminating the pockets & reducing their size.
Regeneration: This procedure is recommended when the bone supporting the teeth have been destroyed as a result of gum recession. This procedure starts with folding back the affected gum tissue to remove harmful bacteria from the pockets and a regenerative material - such as a membrane, graft tissue or tissue-stimulating protein - is applied to encourage the body to naturally regenerate the bone and tissue in that area. Gum tissue is then securely placed over the root of the tooth.
Soft tissue graft: This procedure involves taking a piece of tissue from the roof of the mouth or from nearby healthy gum and then stitching to the area where gums have receded.
Ready to learn more about gum grafting to improve your smile and overall oral health? Please contact our General & Cosmetic Dental Practice in West Los Angeles and schedule a consultation today!
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