Gum recession refers to instances where a patient’s gums begin to shrink back from the teeth, resulting in exposure of the base of the tooth and the tooth root.
This shrinkage can allow bacteria to attack the roots of your teeth and the underlying bone.
Gum recession has several potential causes, all of which are treatable. Aside from poor oral hygiene, other habits that can lead to receding gums include aggressive tooth brushing and teeth grinding.
Using an electric toothbrush is one way to address over-brushing, and there are special models available that alert you if you’re using excessive pressure. To protect your gums from the effects of teeth grinding — also known as “bruxism” — use a mouthguard at night.
While our gums do naturally recede with age, there are effective ways to prevent them from receding too far. There are also cosmetic benefits to treating receding gums, as the condition can have a negative impact on the aesthetic look of your smile.
Call us on 020 8224 7562 to discuss a gum recession treatment plan.
Gum Grafting
A gum graft is a viable treatment option for individuals who suffer from excessive gum recession.
Gum grafting treatments aim to enhance your smile while also improving the health of your teeth by restoring the supportive and protective functions of the gums.
Gum recession is not always easy to spot straight away. The main symptom is an apparent lengthening of the teeth. Adult teeth do not grow — your gums are shrinking back and exposing the tooth root, resulting in an elongated appearance.
Gum graft surgery involves taking healthy tissue from elsewhere in the mouth such as the roof and repositioning it to the affected area, covering the exposed tooth roots. The healing process following a gum graft typically takes between a week and two weeks. Patients can manage any discomfort with over-the-counter painkillers.
To find out if you are a candidate for gum grafting, call us on 020 8224 7562
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