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Receding Gums – Causes and Treatment

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Gum recession is a hugely common problem with approximately 50% of the population showing signs of receding gums. This figure only increases with age yet few people are aware of what causes gum recession and how to avoid it.

The aetiology of gum recession is often multi-factorial, but the consequence is generally the same; gum pulling away from the natural margin of a tooth crown exposes the root, causing sensitivity, decay risk and often an unpleasant appearance.

periodontal treatment for receding gums
Receding Gums
 

Overzealous Tooth Brushing

Overzealous tooth brushing is often the culprit in localised recession (which affects only a few teeth). It is mostly the upper canines (pointed, fang-like teeth) that are affected in cases of aggressive brushing. Connecting the front teeth to the chewing teeth at the back though their angular positioning, canines are sometimes considered the ‘corners’ of the mouth and are consequently subject to increased pressure during tooth brushing. The thin layer of gum and bone overlying the bulbous root of the upper canines is easily worn away from continual rubbing, unable to regrow.

Gum Disease

In cases of generalised recession (which affects a larger area of the mouth), a history of periodontal disease can be expected. During active stages of the disease, combinations of host-parasite interactions destroy the vital tissue surrounding teeth. Despite the underlying bone thinning, the overlying gum tissue remains plushy and swollen due to active infection. Only when the disease is arrested will the gums shrink down to match the new bone levels.

Unfortunately this side effect of successful periodontal treatment can come as a surprise. During the active stages of the disease, the gums often remain at a cosmetically acceptable level but then shrink once the issue is resolved. However, arresting the degradation of underlying tissue as soon as possible is often the only way to save the teeth and a reduced gum height is usually accepted as a small price to pay.

Other causes of gum recession are less common. Genetics can play a part in a person’s susceptibility to gum disease, which often results in recession. Life choices are also a factor: tongue and lip piercings can rub the gum they have most contact with, causing it to thin and eventually disappear. Emotional and mental status also has a role: clinical depression can result in poor oral hygiene, which may lead to periodontal disease and recession. Similarly, gingivitis artefacta, a very rare type of injurious behaviour, involves picking or scratching at the gums and is often associated with psychological issues.

Periodontal Treatment

Treating gum recession is complex. Very thin oral tissues intended to overlie slim segments of bone are difficult to regain. Gum surgery is an option in some cases and usually involves the removal of a thin section of healthy tissue from an oral donor site (like the palate) and attaching it to a receiving site. While these operations can be wonderfully successful, their longevity needs to be considered for each case. In instances of generalised gum recession following periodontal disease, full-mouth reconstruction (with either donor tissue or prosthetics) is rare, expensive and often unpredictable.

Prevention

A better way to deal with gum recession is perhaps by both preventing it from occurring and treating it symptomatically. Having regular dental checks and maintaining good oral hygiene are often adequate to reduce the risk of gum recession, though removing piercings and visiting a doctor with any psychological concerns are also both important.

Symptomatic relief is generally found through the application of sensitive toothpaste to the areas of exposed dentine. Painful gums should be cleaned gently (a single-tufted brush can be advantageous in these situations). There are also products on the market available to soothe gum pain.

If you are concerned about gum recession or want to know more about treatment and relief options, book an appointment with your dentist today on 0121 357 5000.

The post Receding Gums – Causes and Treatment appeared first on Scott Arms.


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