Mild receding gums may not seem like a big concern, but if your soft oral tissues have begun to recede, it is important to seek general dentistry treatment as soon as possible. Gum recession cannot be reversed. Nonetheless, timely care can prevent the condition from growing worse, and it can prevent related dental problems, such as tooth loss.
At Gallery Dental of Oakbrook, Dr. Peter Noto offers effective treatment for mild receding gums, including state-of-the-art laser treatment. Whether you are struggling with mild or more advanced gum recession, contact our office today to receive the care you need.
Causes of Gum Recession
Gum recession can occur for many reasons, although periodontal disease is the most common cause. In fact, 47.2% of adults over the age of 30 have some degree of gum disease. Periodontal disease develops when bacterial pockets form in the gum tissue. As the bacteria multiply, the pockets will grow larger, eventually causing the gums to pull away from your tooth roots. In a vicious cycle, when your gums recede, this creates even more room for bacteria to proliferate, leading to additional gum recession and so on.
However, while periodontitis is the most common reason for gum recession, it is far from the only one. Other contributing factors include:
- Overly aggressive brushing with a hard-bristled toothbrush
- A genetic predisposition to weak or thin gums
- Bruxism, or chronic teeth grinding and clenching
- Hormonal changes during pregnancy, puberty, or menopause
Symptoms of Mild Receding Gums
In the earliest stages, you may not notice any symptoms of gum recession. Typically, dental sensitivity is one of the first signs since your tooth roots are exposed as your tissue starts to recede. In other cases, you may notice that your teeth appear unusually long.
If gum recession goes untreated, these symptoms will worsen. You could experience pronounced sensitivity, particularly to hot or cold temperatures. Furthermore, as your gums continue to pull away from your teeth, it will not only affect your appearance; you could also suffer from tooth loss.
Treatment for Mild Receding Gums
Treatment for your gum recession will depend on the cause of the condition. The most common treatment is a deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing. During this procedure, Dr. Noto will clean out pockets of bacteria from your gums. He will also smooth your tooth roots, since a rough surface can provide a haven for pesky microbes.
Dr. Noto proudly practices laser dentistry, using a soft tissue laser to clean the gums. The laser can eliminate the need for general anesthesia. It also seals blood vessels during treatment, dramatically reducing post-procedural discomfort and swelling.
In cases of very mild gum recession, some patients do not require treatment. Nonetheless, Dr. Noto can guide you in preventing further tissue loss. For instance, he can suggest better brushing techniques or recommend a toothbrush that will be less harsh on your gums. American Dental Association® guidelines suggest using a soft-bristled brush, using gentle motions, and holding the brush at a 45-degree angle from your teeth.
Contact Gallery Dental of Oakbrook for More Information
Without treatment, mild receding gums can quickly become a major problem. Contact Gallery Dental of Oakbrook to schedule an evaluation and treatment. Reach us online or call our Oakbrook Terrace, IL, office at (630) 620-8200.