Gum disease in Lake Zurich is one of the most common oral health problems seen by dentists. With symptoms that range from minor bleeding to bone and tooth loss, it is necessary that these signs be addressed early on before gum recession has the chance to occur. Read on to discover why this happens and what a dental professional can do to seek treatment as well as prevent the development of gum disease.
Why Gums Recede
When an individual suffers from gum disease, bleeding, inflammation, and tooth sensitivity are not only the symptoms that occur. As the disease progresses, the tissues can begin to pull back, creating pockets that make it easy for bad oral bacteria and food particles to become trapped. Over time, if left untreated, the gums will continue to recede, causing teeth to look longer than before. The tooth roots will also become exposed, which often leads to increased sensitivity and the potential for decay and tooth loss.
Although poor oral hygiene is the main contributor to gum recession, genetics, aggressive brushing, teeth grinding, smoking, facial trauma, and misaligned teeth are also to blame.
Will Gums Grow Back After Receding?
No, gum tissue cannot grow back after it recedes. However, a periodontist in Lake Zurich can introduce various treatment options that are designed to reshape and reconstruct a person’s gum line to appear healthier and look more aesthetically pleasing.
Some of the most common methods of care include:
- Deep Cleaning – If caught early on, scaling and root planing can be used to eradicate bad bacteria and plaque from the teeth and gums. After the accumulated plaque is removed from beneath the gum line, the process of scaling begins, which is to smooth out the tooth root to encourage reattachment and discourage future reinfection.
- Gum Graft – If gum recession is noticeable, a periodontist may recommend a gum graft. This involves removing a small amount of tissue from another area of the mouth and placing it over the exposed area of the tooth structure. Over time, it will heal and create a more uniform gum line.
Although gum tissue cannot grow back once it has receded, patients can remain hopeful when meeting with a trusted periodontist. Apart from the at-home preventive techniques that are often recommended when attempting to avoid gum disease (i.e., optimal oral hygiene, wearing a mouthguard, keeping six-month dental checkups and cleanings), a professional can use the right solution to fully restore an individual’s gum line.
About the Practice
At Grand Dental – Lake Zurich, we are pleased to have a board-certified, in-house periodontist. Patients suffering from gum disease and recession can expect high-quality care that involves the use of advanced dental technology to eliminate bad oral bacteria and improve the health and well-being of an individual’s gingival tissues. Individuals who are struggling with symptoms associated with periodontal disease are encouraged to visit our website or call (847) 443-5356.