Gum Recession

Gingival recession (receding gums) refers to the progressive loss of gum tissue, which can eventually result in tooth root exposure if left untreated.  Gum recession is most common in adults over the age of 40, but the process can begin in the teenage years.

Gum recession can be difficult to self-diagnose in its earlier stages because the changes often occur asymptomatically and gradually.  Regular dental check ups will help to prevent gum recession and assess risk factors.

The following symptoms may be indicative of gum recession:

  • Sensitive teeth – When the gums recede enough to expose the cementum protecting the tooth root, the dentin tubules beneath will become more susceptible to external stimuli.

  • Visible roots – This is one of the main characteristics of a more severe case of gum recession.

  • Longer-looking teeth – Individuals experiencing gingival recession often have a “toothy” smile.  The length of the teeth is perfectly normal, but the gum tissue has been lost, making the teeth appear longer.

  • Halitosis, inflammation and bleeding – These symptoms are characteristic of gingivitis or periodontal disease.  A bacterial infection causes the gums to recede from the teeth and may cause tooth loss if not treated promptly.

Causes of Gum Recession

Gum recession is an incredibly widespread problem that dentists diagnose and treat on a daily basis.  It is important to thoroughly examine the affected areas and make an accurate diagnosis of the actual underlying problem.  Once the cause of the gum recession has been determined, surgical and non surgical procedures can be performed to halt the progress of the recession, and prevent it from occurring in the future.

The most common causes of gingival recession are:

  • Overaggressive brushing – Over brushing can almost be as dangerous to the gums as too little.  Brushing too hard or brushing with a hard-bristled toothbrush can erode the tooth enamel at the gum line, and irritate or inflame gum tissue.

  • Poor oral hygiene – When brushing and flossing are performed improperly or not at all, a plaque build up can begin to affect the teeth.  The plaque contains various bacterial toxins which can promote infection and erode the underlying jawbone.

  • Chewing tobacco – Any kind of tobacco use has devastating effects on the entire oral cavity.  Chewing tobacco in particular, aggravates the gingival lining of the mouth and causes gum recession if used continuously.

  • Periodontal disease – Periodontal disease can be a result of improper oral hygiene or caused by systemic diseases such as diabetes.  The excess sugars in the mouth and narrowed blood vessels experienced by diabetics create a perfect environment for oral bacteria.  The bacterium causes an infection which progresses deeper and deeper into the gum and bone tissue, eventually resulting in tooth loss.

Treatment of Gum Recession

Every case of gum recession is slightly different, and therefore many treatments are available.  The nature of the problem which caused the recession to begin with needs to be addressed first.

If overly aggressive brushing techniques are eroding the gums, a softer toothbrush and a gentler brushing technique should be used.  If poor oral hygiene is a problem, prophylaxis (professional dental cleaning) may be recommended to rid the gum pockets of debris and bacteria.  In the case of a severe calculus (tartar) build up, scaling and root planing will be performed to heal the gingival inflammation and clean the teeth.

Once the cause of the gingival recession has been addressed, surgery of a more cosmetic or restorative nature may be recommended.  Gum tissue regeneration and gum grafting are two excellent ways to restore natural symmetry to the gums and make the smile look more aesthetically pleasing.

If you have any questions or concerns about periodontal disease, periodontal treatments, or gum recession, please ask your dentist.

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Testimonials

I had an entire dental replacement procedure done over the last 18 months. All new crowns to replace my worn teeth. BridgeCreek Prosthetic Dentistry did an amazing job and it was life changing for me. I now feel excited to smile again after many years of hiding. Dr Butler and his staff are just fantastic! Caring, attentive and professional. The entire experience was positive and it has given me a new found confidence in my appearance.

Thank you BridgeCreek

E. Galisewski Age 60

I have been seeing Dr. Butler and his staff at BridgeCreek Prosthetic Dentistry for over five
years for regular dentistry and other oral health issues. Dr. Butler's approach to dentistry has
been perfect for my needs, as he understand and treats serious problems when they arise,
but also takes a conservative approach when it is warranted, and does not perform
unnecessary treatments or interventions. This has saved me not only significant sums of
money over what other care providers recommended for my oral health needs, but has also
saved me from a lot of unnecessary procedures and the pain and inconvenience related
thereto.

I would recommend Bridgecreek Prosthetic Dentistry to anyone, no matter what level of oral
health care you need.

J. Swift

Texas A & M
Texas Health Science Center
Baylor College of Dentistry

April 25, 2013

Dr. Dennis Waguespack, DDS

For some reason I cannot explain why I wanted to write you and Baylor College of Dentistry a letter. I am not good at letter writing, so I hope you understand, I am just trying to express my good feelings and appreciation of the professional service I received over the last year or so.

I have been attending the Baylor College of Dentistry for twenty years and been very pleased with all the services. About two years ago, I reached an important decision concerning the reconstruction of my entire mouth. After some careful and professional consulting with Dr. Nagy, we decided to proceed with a complete restoration of all my mouth.

I was very lucky to be picked / assigned to you.

I just wanted you and Baylor to know how pleased I am with all the extensive work you have performed on me for over a year. I now have totally functional teeth, as well as better aesthetics than anytime in my life. I am proud to smile and show all of my new teeth.

Dr. Waguespack, I wish you the very best in your new practice in Denver. I am so very pleased with your professionalism standards, perfect work, and your leadership with my issues. I would highly recommend you to anyone needing dentistry attention.


Regards

Edwin Stanaland

Edwin Stanaland

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