Dentists fix receding gums with deep cleanings (scaling and root planing), gum graft surgery (taking tissue to cover roots), or less invasive options like the Pinhole Technique, all aimed at stopping recession and covering exposed tooth roots, often after addressing the underlying cause like gum disease or teeth grinding. Treatment starts with a diagnosis to determine the best method, ranging from improving oral hygiene to regenerative procedures or orthodontics for misaligned teeth.
Treatments include antibiotics, antimicrobial mouth rinses and surgery. Gum recession can't be reversed, but treatment can prevent it from getting worse.
While this is an effective method of treating receding gums, Dr. Daniel Lauer is pleased to offer patients a less invasive alternative: Emdogain™. This non-surgical solution actually regenerates gum tissue without having to take a gum graft from a donor site.
Gum grafting may cause some discomfort, but much pain is not usual. Soreness typically subsides within several days; furthermore, a complete recovery occurs during the subsequent weeks, assuming ample care is taken.
Receding gum filling is an innovative dental solution designed to address gum recession effectively. This procedure involves filling the area of gum recession with a safe, durable material that protects the exposed roots.
Signs that It May Be Too Late for Gum Grafting
When the bone supporting teeth has diminished significantly, grafts may not hold. Teeth may become loose or shift, further complicating treatment. Visible root surfaces that have become worn, decayed, or sensitive for long periods might not benefit fully from grafting.
15 Foods to Avoid with Receding Gums
Your periodontist will discuss with you which type of gum graft is best in your situation. Gum graft surgery is not too major a dental procedure. Nonetheless, you might have some pain and discomfort after it, although your particular surgery can change the aftereffects you experience.
Root Canal Therapy
Root canals are famous for being one of the most feared dental procedures. The treatment involves removing infected pulp from inside the tooth to save it from extraction. Why It Hurts: Infection or inflammation in the tooth can amplify pain.
For most periodontal treatments, including gum grafting or pocket reduction surgery, a local anesthetic is enough to prevent pain during the procedure. You'll remain fully awake but won't feel anything in the treated area. This approach allows for quicker recovery and fewer risks compared to deeper sedation.
Tooth longevity with gum disease largely depends on how far the gums have receded and the extent of accompanying bone loss. Teeth typically become loose and fall out when gum recession reaches 5mm or more, combined with periodontal deterioration.
Most adults can benefit from gum grafting regardless of age, as long as their gum and bone health support the procedure. A periodontist will evaluate each case to determine the best plan.
Traditionally, gum grafting surgery has been the go-to solution for treating gum recession. However, a new alternative called the RejuvaGum Lift™ uses stem cell tissue regeneration and is now gaining popularity among patients and dental professionals.
Common causes include aggressive tooth brushing, periodontal disease, genetics, tobacco use, and hormonal changes (such as those during pregnancy). What are the symptoms of gum recession? Symptoms include longer-looking teeth, increased tooth sensitivity, visible roots, and gaps between teeth.
A tooth might be too far gone if: The decay has destroyed most of the tooth structure. There's a severe fracture below the gumline. Bone loss has left the tooth without support.
The cost of gum grafting varies based on the type of graft, the number of teeth treated, the severity of gum recession, and any additional dental work needed, with costs typically ranging between $600 and $3,000.
The 2-2-2 rule in dentistry is a simple guideline for good oral hygiene: brush twice a day, for two minutes each time, and visit your dentist twice a year, helping to prevent cavities, gum disease, and other dental problems by establishing consistent habits for plaque removal and professional monitoring.
Commonly “Feared” Dental Procedures
In all, Brady's smile contains no gold – just natural enamel and porcelain (from veneers) that mimic natural tooth color. He's known for a very polished and professional appearance, and gold teeth have never been a part of that.
Some health conditions interfere with the healing process. If you have uncontrolled diabetes and hypertension, you might not be suitable for gum grafting. High rates of graft failure occur in patients who have uncontrolled diabetes. High sugars predispose you to infections, especially at the surgical site.
If you are experiencing gum recession, your dentist may suggest increasing your vitamin B levels by eating more foods like eggs, cheese, fish, milk, or cereal. By eating these foods daily, your gums will be less likely to recede due to vitamin deficiency.
What are Some Gum Graft Alternatives?
What is the treatment for receding gums?
Drinks to Help Fight Gum Disease