Gum recession is a more common problem than many people realize. A large portion of
the population has some degree of gum recession, but may not be aware
of it because it is a gradual process. Signs of gum recession may include
sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, the tooth appearing longer than
normal, or small notches near the gum line. If left untreated, bacteria
could build up in these notches, and bone and tissue structures may suffer
severe damage leading to the loss of the tooth.
Gum recession, which occurs when the layers of tissue around the teeth
pull back or wear away, can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
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Genetic predisposition: Regardless of how well you care for your teeth, some people are more
susceptible to gum disease than others.
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Inadequate dental care: A buildup of tartar from insufficient brushing and flossing can cause
gums to recede.
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Hormonal changes: Fluctuations in hormone levels, including during puberty, pregnancy,
or menopause, may cause gums to be more sensitive and vulnerable to recession.
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Periodontal diseases: Bacterial gum infections can destroy gum tissue and leave more of the
root of the tooth exposed.
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Aggressive tooth brushing: Brushing teeth too hard can cause tooth enamel to wear away and gums
to wear away faster.
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Orthodontic treatment: Moving teeth too quickly during orthodontic treatment can cause gums
to wear away.
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Tobacco use: Both smokeless tobacco and cigarettes irritates gum tissue, resulting
in severe gum recession.
Regular
dental checkups are a must to keep your mouth healthy. If a dentist has noticed that gum
recession is a concern, they will likely recommend gum grafting or gum
rejuvenation surgery. While traditional gum grafting can be a very painful
process with a long recovery time, there is, thankfully, an equally effective
yet vastly superior alternative.
What is Gum Rejuvenation?
Gum rejuvenation, also known as the Pinhole Surgical Technique™,
is a minimally invasive alternative to gum grafting surgery, which traditionally
involves shaving a layer of skin from the patient’s palate and stitching
it over affected areas. Alternatively, with
gum rejuvenation surgery, there are no incisions or sutures involved, leading to an accelerated
recovery time and less pain.
Rather than grafting skin, small pinholes are made in the gums above the
affected teeth, and the tissue is repositioned. Collagen strips are then
added to facilitate healing. Multiple teeth can be treated in a single
visit, providing immediate cosmetic benefits and preserving a healthy mouth.
If you are looking to correct your gums without invasive surgery, gum rejuvenation
may be right for you. Contact our award-winning San Diego dentist at Advanced
Dentistry & Implant Center to get started with a
complimentary consultation today: (858) 348-5859.