Gum Recession: Causes, Treatments, and Prevention

Gingival or gum recession is a significant dental problem the world over and is one not unfamiliar to Vero Beach dental patients.  This increases the chance of developing cavities, resulting in a painful condition that reduces the functionality and appearance of the teeth. The condition can also lead to tooth loss. The likelihood of experiencing gum recession increases as people age. Men tend to develop the condition at an earlier age than women. However, by the time women reach the age of 40, the numbers are nearly equal.  As the recession progresses, it increases in severity as people age.  

Implementing prevention strategies or managing the condition once it has developed can be challenging without the assistance of a periodontist. Dr. Jeffrey Brown uses his qualifications and extensive experience to effectively treat your gum recession problem. 

Causes of gum recession 

Genetics can play a major role in causing gum recession, but there are other causes as well.   For example, people who use hard bristled toothbrushes and scrub their teeth too vigorously can damage their tooth enamel.  Periodontal disease is another culprit. 

Gingivitis is an early stage of gum disease.  Left unattended, gingivitis can lead to periodontitis, which is a direct cause of gum tissue damage. Periodontal disease is often left unchecked until it has progressed to a point that professional intervention is the only option left. Wearing braces or grinding one’s teeth are other ways in which receding gums can develop.

Prevention methods

According to the Cleveland Clinic, ways in which to prevent gum recession include diligence in brushing the teeth  with a soft bristled toothbrush at least twice a day and flossing once a day.  The use of an antimicrobial mouthwash can also help, as can following the guidelines issued by your Vero Beach dental practitioner for professional cleaning. 

Treatment modalities

Generally speaking, the best outcome for the treatment of gum recession is when a periodontist can successfully preserve a patient’s teeth. This is most likely to happen when treatment is sought in its earliest stages. However, if the condition progresses to more serious stages, your periodontist might ask you to consider other treatment options like dental implants and guided tissue regeneration.

Guided tissue regeneration is used to regenerate tissue that was lost as a result of periodontal disease. Guided bone regeneration is a treatment that is used similarly to a bone graft, to generate enough bone to securely place an implant.  Before any treatment starts, Dr. Brown takes the time to make sure each patient understands the best treatment options. 

Schedule An Appointment

Dr. Brown and his team of skilled hygienists educate their patients about preventative dental care, and also use the best materials and practices to affect excellent dental health. Schedule an appointment with us so we can address all any dental issues you might have.