If you’ve noticed that your gums seem to be pulling back from your teeth, or your teeth look a little longer than they did before, these are tell-tale signs of receding gums. When gum recession takes place, gaps can form between the gum and tooth. This allows disease-causing bacteria to build up.
Gum recession is a common problem that affects 4% to 12% of the adult population. If you don’t see your Ft Pierce dentist to start treatment at an early stage of gum recession, it will be difficult to stop or reverse the process of gum recession.
The role of your gums is to protect your teeth. First, the attached gingiva securely connects your teeth to the bone. Second, the gingival mucosa protects the insides of your cheeks and gums.
The edge of the gum tissue that surrounds your teeth is known as the gingival margin. When this gingival margin pulls away from the teeth, it leaves the tooth roots exposed, making them more susceptible to decay, and eventually tooth loss.
Gum recession can happen slowly. That’s why it is important to take a good look at your gums and teeth every day. Here are the symptoms of receding gums:
Since gum recession affects the look of your smile, this may knock your confidence, but fortunately, something can be done to reverse the problem.
If you don’t visit a dentist for treatment at an early stage, gum recession will eventually damage the supporting bone. If you keep a routine dental visit, your dentist can spot the condition from the start and give you treatment options if necessary.
Gum grafts are usually performed as a way to reverse receding gums. This surgical procedure involves cutting a flap of your skin from the top of your mouth and the tissue under the flap is removed and is stitched to the gum tissue surrounding the root of the tooth.
If you need to get in touch with a Ft Pierce dentist for any dental emergencies or issues, contact Smooth Sailing Dental today for more information.