GUM RECESSION AND ORAL HEALTH
The gums are dense tissues that cover the bone and the roots of the teeth.
Receding gum lines are a very common finding in adults. Gum recession happens when the bone underneath the gums undergoes resorption and disappears, making the gums pull back and exposing the root surface. It can be localized, affecting one or two teeth, or generalized.
Typically, people are not aware that their gum is receding until a late stage. Progressive gum recession can result in sensitivity, cosmetic problems, bone loss and potentially tooth loss.
CAUSES FOR GUM RECESSION
Gum recession is usually linked to inflammation and physical wear, which is generally aggravated by a bad bite.
Gum disease can lead to loss of bone and gum tissues around a tooth due to the inflammatory reaction that takes place. In this case, several teeth tend to be affected.
Excessive use of force during tooth brushing, over-brushing, poor brushing technique and a toothbrush with hard bristles can also contribute to wear of the gums. The thickness of the gums and the bone is also an important factor. Thin bone and gums are more prone to inflammation and wear.
Damage from dental treatment, such as fillings and crowns placed too deep into the gums, frequently lead to accumulation of bacteria, inflammation and recession.
Piercings in the lip and tongue can rub against the gums and lead to recession. Removal is often necessary to avoid further damage.
BAD BITE AND WHY IT AFFECTS GUM RECESSION
Misaligned teeth can have thin bone and gums, making them more prone to recession. Teeth that are tilted end up having thin bone around their roots, which is another predisposing factor for gum recession.
A bad bite is associated with excessive chewing forces, which affect the bone and can aggravate gum recession. Clenching and grinding is more common in people with bite issues and misaligned teeth. It puts teeth and jaws under a huge amount of pressure, also contributing to gum recession.
DENTAL TREATMENT FOR RECEDING GUMS
In order to evaluate the condition, the dentist measures the width and the height of the gum recession in mm. This, together with other factors, signs and symptoms, will determine the treatment plan.
Not all gum recessions require treatment. If it is not progressing, does not disturb tooth brushing, is not associated with inflammation, pain and accumulation of bacteria, it can be left untreated. However, regular monitoring is required to avoid progression and potential problems.
Many people with gum recessions complain about pain and discomfort while cleaning their teeth. Most patients need to learn how brush their teeth in a softer way, to avoid wear of the gums. Application of fluoride products can improve the sensitivity associated with recessions. If there is gum disease, scaling and root planning is necessary.
Surgery can be performed to cover some types of gum recession. The most common type of surgery involves removal of a small gum graft from the roof of the mouth and placement over the recession. After taking into consideration all factors involved, the periodontist will be able to discuss the best options.
BETTER BITE, BETTER HEALTH AFTER ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT
Orthodontic treatment is indicated in many cases of gum recession associated with misaligned teeth and bad bite. Misaligned, crooked and tilted teeth usually have a very thin bone layer, which is a risk factor for gum recession. Trauma from an unbalanced bite can result in the destruction of the thin bone plates.
Orthodontics is a conservative and non-invasive approach that can improve the position of the teeth, increase the thickness of bone and gums and better distribute chewing forces to prevent the gums from receding.
Bad bite is a very frequent finding and unfortunately, many adults do not feel like having their teeth corrected with braces. Clear aligner therapy, such as Invisalign, has made it easier and more convenient with the use of plastic appliances that fit snugly over the teeth and can be removed for cleaning and for eating.
Visit the dentist regularly and get your bite checked – avoid gum recession and many other problems.