Treating Receding Gums: Options, Success Rates & Long-Term Care
Receding gums can pose more than cosmetic issues; they often signal underlying periodontal concerns that need immediate attention. At Coastal Periodontics, treating receding gums is one of our specialties. We diagnose and address various periodontal problems that, when treated, can protect and preserve your smile.
What Causes Receding Gums?
Understanding the root cause of receding gums helps us craft the most effective treatment plan for you. Common culprits include:
- Poor Oral Hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing contribute to plaque buildup, which can escalate into gum disease, further exacerbating receding gums.
- Genetic Factors: Some individuals are genetically predisposed to gum disease, making them more susceptible to receding gums.
- Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in hormone levels during life events like pregnancy, menopause, and puberty can make gums more vulnerable to recession.
- Teeth Grinding: Excessive force on gums from grinding teeth can lead to gum recession over time.
Understanding the root cause can help us devise a more effective periodontal treatment plan.
Treatment Options for Treating Receding Gums
Scaling and Root Planing
The most straightforward treatment is a deep-cleaning method called scaling and root planing, which involves cleaning the root surfaces to remove plaque and calculus (tartar), helping the gums reattach to the teeth.
Utilizing Piezosurgery Equipment
Piezosurgery equipment offers a reliable solution for nonsurgical approaches to treating receding gums. It employs ultrasonic vibrations at low frequencies to assist in tasks like bone structure cutting, tooth extraction, and other surgical needs.
Gum Graft Surgery
Soft tissue gum grafts may be the ideal course of action for more severe cases of receding gums. In this process, tissue from another part of your mouth or a donor is attached to the receding gum areas. Gum grafts have a high success rate and offer a permanent solution to receding gums.
Pinhole Surgical Technique
The Chao Pinhole Surgical Technique is another method for treating receding gums as an alternative to gum grafts. This minimally invasive procedure involves creating a small hole and using specialized tools to reposition the receding gums gently.
Periodontal Laser Treatment
LANAP laser treatment can effectively treat receding gums for those considering other alternatives. This treatment uses laser technology to eliminate inflamed gum tissue around the tooth’s root, minimizing pain and expediting recovery.
Success Rates for Treating Receding Gums
Success rates for treating receding gums can vary, depending on the treatment method and your adherence to post-operative care. However, most periodontal treatments, especially by specialists, have high success rates. According to the nonprofit multispecialty academic medical center, the Cleveland Clinic, gum grafts, for instance, have success rates above 90%.
Long-Term Care for Receding Gums
To sustain the benefits of your treatment for receding gums, maintaining impeccable oral hygiene is crucial. Routine dental check-ups, dental cleanings and a tailored home care regimen are essential.
Gum-Healthy Nutritional Choices
A balanced diet, rich in Vitamin C and other essential nutrients, can fortify your gums. Incorporate foods like leafy greens, bell peppers and citrus fruits to help treat and prevent receding gums.
Recommended Dental Products
Opt for dental products containing fluoride and antiseptics that are effective against gum disease. The American Dental Association (ADA) endorses quality dental products that can help.
Coastal Periodontics: Your Partner in Treating Receding Gums
Don’t let receding gums compromise your dental health. Effective treatment options are available, and our team at Coastal Periodontics is ready to guide you whether your condition requires non-invasive or surgical intervention.
Please contact us today to discuss your specific needs and seek personalized advice.
Disclaimer: This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.
Take the First Step in Treating Receding Gums
Contact the experts at Coastal Periodontics today for a personalized approach to treating receding gums that aligns with your specific needs. We’re committed to restoring dental health and guiding you to a healthier smile.
New Patient Special: Support the Charity of Your Choice
Get a complete exam, X-rays and 3D CT scan all for $250. We’ll create a personalized care plan for the treatment that is best for you, whether the revolutionary Pinhole Technique for gum recession, laser assisted treatment for gum disease, and a variety of implant procedures to replace missing teeth or support dentures. Plus, you’re supporting your community – we’ll donate a portion of your fee goes to the charity of your choice.