Gum Recession Treatment Charleston, SC

Over time, many of our patients notice that their gum lines have receded. There can be a number of causes for this, but the effect is always the same: gum recession exposes more of the tooth root, which in turn makes the teeth look longer. Overall, this can cause patients to appear much older than they actually are.

Gum recession is a common problem, and thankfully, it is also very treatable. We have ample experience treating gum recession here at Periodontal Associates. To find out more about treatment options in Charleston, SC, contact our office today.

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What Causes Gum Recession?

There are a number of factors that can contribute to gum recession. Some of the most common ones include:

Tooth Position

Location and/or change of tooth position over time can cause recession.

Periodontal Disease

Gum disease is a common cause of recession. Essentially, bacterial infections can cause the gum tissue to deteriorate.

Aggressive Brushing/Clenching/Grinding

Brushing your teeth too aggressively may cause the enamel to wear away, which can in turn cause the gums to recede. In addition, clenching and grinding habits can alter the bone and gum relationship to the tooth.

Dental Neglect

At the opposite end of the spectrum, failure to brush and floss regularly can lead to a buildup of tartar. If left untreated, this can result in the gums deteriorating.

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Do I Have Receding Gums?

We advise patients to be attentive to the signs and symptoms of gum recession, particularly if they have been diagnosed with a condition such as gingivitis or periodontitis. Some of these symptoms include:

• Your teeth seem like they are longer than they used to be.
• Your teeth have grown sensitive to hot and cold foods.
• Your teeth have grown sensitive to foods that are sour, spicy, or extremely sweet.
• You feel as though the spaces between your teeth have grown wider.
• You can see the roots of your teeth.

If you notice any of these issues, reach out to Periodontal Associates to schedule a consultation for gum recession treatment.

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How Is Gum Recession Treated?

For mild cases of gum recession, it may be possible to treat without the need for surgery. Scaling and root planing can remove plaque buildup and smooth out the tooth root. Additionally, antibiotic medication can be used to prevent further plaque buildup.

Gum Recession Surgery

For more extreme cases, surgical intervention may be recommended. One of the most typical kinds of surgery to address gum recession is called a soft tissue graft. In this procedure, additional gum tissue is transplanted to augment the deficient area. In some circumstances, cadaver tissue may be utilized.

Does Gum Recession Surgery Hurt?

One of the most common questions we hear from patients is whether their gum recession treatment will prove painful. Our practice prioritizes patient comfort, and as such, we are happy to utilize a range of sedation options to make your procedure as pleasant as possible. We will be happy to talk about the sedation options when you join us for a consultation.

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Meet Your Periodontists

Periodontal Associates is committed to providing the highest standards of clinical excellence and to ensuring each patient has a positive experience. This means maintaining a warm and welcoming practice environment and making certain that our providers take ample time getting to know patients and answering their questions. To learn more about our providers, check out their individual bios.

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Will Dental Insurance Cover My Gum Recession Treatment?

Another common question from our patients is about the role of dental insurance. As a rule of thumb, dental insurance typically covers gum grafts. With that said, the amount of coverage you get can vary from plan to plan. We always recommend checking the specifics of your coverage before making an appointment.

Recovery from Gum Recession Treatment

For a day or two you will be advised to follow a soft-food diet. Your periodontist will be happy to provide specific recommendations. Additionally, you may experience some tenderness during the recovery period, but this can easily be managed with prescription and/or OTC pain medications.

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Seek Gum Recession Treatment in Charleston, SC

Gum recession can cause you to look older than you actually are, and it may also increase your risk of tooth loss. The good news is that no matter the cause of your gum recession, there are always viable solutions. We welcome you to learn more about treatment for receding gums in Charleston, SC. Make an appointment with Periodontal Associates.