Receding Gums and Receding Gumlines

Receding gums refers to a loss of gum tissue and underlying bone which produces exposure of the roots of the teeth. Gum recession occurs most frequently among adults over age 40, but can be seen from patients six to 90 years old.

Some people ask themselves, "What can I do about receding gums?" For people with mild to severe receding gums, treatment is available. Receding gums can occur from overaggresive brushing of the teeth, inadequate brushing or flossing, periodontal infections, eating disorders, use of oral tobacco products, controlled or uncontrolled tooth structure movement, grinding and/or clenching of teeth, inadequate dental restorations, and lip or tongue piercings.

Gum treatment for recession is available for most cases. Determining the cause of receding gums is the first step to successful treatment. Also, Dr. Paris will consult with your primary care physician to determine if medications or nutritional supplements like phosphorus, magnesium, calcium, vitamin B complex and vitamin C will need to be prescribed to prevent further decay and encourage natural repair of gum tissue. Frequently fillings and crowns will have to be corrected to enhance gum restructuring. Grinding and/or clenching must be diminished to reduce lateral force on the tissue attachment apparatus.

When receding gums occur, some medicaments may be applied in the office or given to the patient to help diminish the sensitivity of the exposed areas. If surgery is necessary, Dr. Paris will utilize the most successful and comfortable procedure to correct the problem. Rarely does he utiliize tissue from the roof of the patient's mouth, as practiced by many in the field of general dentistry and periodontics.