The Symptoms and Causes of Gum Recession
Gum recession is a condition where the gum line begins to recede from its natural state and expose the sensitive tooth roots. Many people who experience gum recession do not even know they are affected because the symptoms can seem unnoticeable. Receding gums should not be ignored as it can lead to damage to the roots of the teeth and eventually tooth loss—not to mention the negative aesthetic look it gives to your smile.
Symptoms of Gum Recession
- Teeth appear longer
- Sensitivity to hot or cold beverages
- Loose or falling out teeth
- Triangles of space between teeth
Causes of Gum Recession
- Aggressive brushing or flossing
- Genetics and age
- Tooth grinding (bruxism)
- Oral trauma
The Gum Grafting Process
At Cheyenne Mountain Dental Group, we use time-tested gum grafting procedures for gum recession treatment. When performing a gum graft, we will require a sampling of soft tissue from you or a donor source. This tissue is then placed over the location where the gums are receding in order to cover the exposed tooth roots. After the graft is stitched in place, you will need to give it time to heal properly. After healing, your gums should be back to a healthy, straight and attractive level, with the graft looking just like your natural gums.
Experienced, Gentle Care
Our doctors want to ensure that you enjoy a healthy smile for a lifetime. We are a patient-oriented office and believe in transparency with every treatment, meaning we will only recommend a service to you if it is essential. In order to make your treatment as painless as possible, we offer sedation dentistry to block sensations of pain and reduce your dental anxiety. After completing a gum graft procedure, many patients report an improvement to their smile and the ability to enjoy their favorite beverages again without sensitivity.