Mild gum recession is incredibly common among adults, and in some cases, it is nothing to worry about. But what if your gum recession has reached the point where it is noticeable when you smile? You might start to feel self-conscious about your appearance, and you may be concerned about your oral health. Fortunately, there are treatments that may be able to help, including a type of gum contouring. Let’s take a deeper look into the causes of gum recession and potential solutions for it.
What Causes Gum Recession?
Gum recession can have multiple causes, the most common of which is gum disease. Gum disease is a dangerous infection that damages the gums and underlying bone structure.
Other causes of gum recession include:
- Overly aggressive brushing and flossing.
- Chronic teeth grinding (bruxism).
- Smoking.
- Misaligned teeth.
- Traumatic injuries.
- High frenal attachment. (This occurs when the tissue that connects your gums to your lips is too high.)
Addressing the Causes of Gum Recession
Receding gums will not regrow on their own. In fact, the problem may worsen over time, exposing your sensitive tooth roots and increasing your risk of significant oral health complications. Certainly, gum recession deserves timely treatment!
One of the first things you should do is address the cause of the gum recession if possible. This might involve:
- Visiting a general dentist or periodontal specialist for gum disease treatment.
- Getting braces to correct dental misalignment.
- Using a mouthguard to prevent teeth grinding at night.
- Adjusting your oral hygiene techniques so you are gentle on your gums while still thoroughly cleaning your mouth.
- Undergoing a minor surgical procedure to address high frenal attachment.
The Role of Gum Contouring
“Gum contouring” is often used to refer to a treatment that removes gum tissue, rather than replaces it. It is often used to create more space on the teeth for restorations or orthodontic brackets. It can also create a more even gumline, which may be helpful for patients who have experienced very minor gum recession.
If you need to replace lost gum tissue, a different type of gum contouring — known as a gum graft — may be necessary. This surgery is usually performed by a periodontal specialist. Using tissue from your own mouth or a tissue bank, they can cover exposed tooth roots, leading to a healthier and more attractive smile.
Gum recession is nothing to take lightly! If you are concerned about this issue, get in touch with your dental care team to learn about your treatment options.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Amin Mason is a board-certified orthodontist who uses advanced laser technology to address high frenal attachments, uneven gumlines, and similar issues. He also offers advanced orthodontic treatment that can support long-term gum health. If you are interested in learning more about how he and our team may be able to serve you, contact Polaris Orthodontic Center at 614-781-6990.
