Gum Recession

If you’ve noticed your teeth look longer than they used to, it’s likely that you’re suffering from gum recession.

When left untreated, receding gums can create further dental health issues, increasing your risk of a gum or tooth infection, which could ultimately put you at risk of tooth loss. Gum recession can also result in long teeth with big gaps between them, which can affect one’s confidence to smile.

Why do gums recede?

Gums recede due to reasons ranging from chronic over brushing, to advancing gum disease and trauma from piercings. During your appointment with us at Oatlands Dental Lounge, we will establish the root cause, to ascertain the best approach for treating your unique case.

Treating receding gums is paramount. Because the areas of tooth under your gums don’t have a protective enamel coating, when they become exposed they’re highly susceptible to to processes such as tooth wear and tooth decay and ultimately can make the teeth sensitive

How is the gum recession reversed?

The good news is, it is indeed possible (in select cases) to reverse gum recession. Gum grafts can be performed to carefully place gum down over the receded area. The graft can be obtained from donor sources, or be transfered from the roof of your mouth to improves the aesthetics and thickness of your gums.

Preventing gum recession

There are several good practices you can adopt to minimise your chance of developing gum recession including:

• Ceasing to use tobacco.
• Refrain from over brushing your teeth (if you’re unsure how to brush, please let us know and we can demonstrate).
• See a dentist as soon as possible if you notice changes to your gums.
• Attending routine appointments, even if you feel your gums are in good health and look normal.
• Practice preventive care.