Receding gums: gum recession treatment and surgery
Treatment of gum recession, when the gum pulls back and exposes the root, with gum grafts or regenerative techniques.
Why does gum recession occur?
Gum recession, also known as gingival recession, occurs when the edge of the gums moves backwards, exposing the roots of the teeth. There are several reasons why gum recession can occur:
Periodontal disease
The main cause of gum recession is periodontal disease, especially periodontitis. Periodontitis is a chronic bacterial infection that affects the tissues that surround and support the teeth.
Aggressive dental brushing
Aggressive dental brushing or the use of a hard-bristled toothbrush can damage gingival tissues and cause their recession.
Poor oral hygiene habits
Lack of proper oral hygiene, such as not brushing teeth regularly or not using dental floss, can contribute to the accumulation of bacterial plaque and dental calculus.
Genetic factors
Some people may have a genetic predisposition to gum recession. The structure and position of gingival tissues can be influenced by hereditary factors.
Dental trauma
Injuries or trauma to the teeth or gums, whether from accidents, blows, or inappropriate dental procedures, can damage gingival tissues and cause their recession.
Bruxism
Bruxism, which is involuntary grinding or clenching of teeth, can exert excessive pressure on gingival tissues, which can lead to gum recession.
It is important to note that gum recession is not only an aesthetic problem, but can also lead to dental sensitivity, increased risk of cavities in exposed roots, and long-term dental stability problems.
If you experience gum recession, it is advisable to consult a periodontist or dentist. They will be able to evaluate the underlying cause of the recession and recommend the appropriate treatment, which may include measures to control periodontal disease, modify oral hygiene habits, and, in some cases, perform periodontal surgery to correct the recession and protect exposed roots.
When the cause is periodontitis, it must be treated with periodontics; in mild cases, that plus good hygiene may be enough. It should not be confused with gum contouring, which removes or reshapes excess gum. Bruxism can also contribute to recession; if you clench or grind your teeth, it is worth considering bruxism treatment.
How are receding gums treated?
Treatment for gum recession depends on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition. Here are some common treatment options for gum recession:
Improvement of oral hygiene
In many cases, gum recession is related to bacterial plaque buildup and poor oral hygiene habits. Improving dental brushing technique and using dental floss properly can help prevent further recession and improve gum health. Additionally, the use of antibacterial mouthwashes can help control inflammation and reduce plaque buildup.
Treatment of periodontal disease
If gum recession is related to periodontal disease, proper periodontal treatment may be necessary. This may include scaling and root planing procedures to remove bacterial plaque and dental calculus from dental roots, as well as periodontal surgery in more advanced cases.
Gum graft surgery
In cases of more severe gum recession, where significant loss of gingival tissue has occurred, a gum graft can be performed. During this procedure, tissue is taken from another area of the mouth, such as the palate, and placed in the recession area to cover exposed roots and improve aesthetic appearance.
Regenerative treatments
In some cases, tissue regeneration techniques can be used to stimulate the growth and regeneration of gums and lost bone. This may include the use of bone graft materials, growth factors, and regenerative membranes.
It is important to note that treatment for gum recession must be personalized according to the specific needs and conditions of each patient. Therefore, it is advisable to consult a periodontist or specialized dentist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.
In addition to professional treatment, maintaining good oral hygiene, avoiding aggressive brushing, and having a balanced diet can help prevent gum recession and maintain good periodontal health.
What does receding gum surgery involve?
Surgery to treat a receding gum is known as gingival recession surgery or root coverage surgery. Below, we describe the general steps of this type of surgery:
Gum recession procedure
Local anesthesia
Before starting the surgery, local anesthesia will be administered to numb the area and ensure the patient is comfortable during the procedure.
Access to the surgical site
The periodontal surgeon will make an incision in the gum around the affected area to expose the dental roots and the area of recession.
Debridement and cleaning
A thorough debridement of the dental roots will be carried out to meticulously remove bacterial plaque, dental calculus, and other deposits. This helps prepare the roots for the next step of the procedure.
Root coverage techniques
There are several techniques used to cover exposed roots and treat receding gums. Some include: Connective tissue graft (tissue is taken from the palate), Soft tissue graft (tissue from the gum itself is used), or the use of membranes and graft materials to help in the healing process.
Sutures
Once the root coverage technique has been performed, the gum is sutured with absorbable or non-absorbable sutures to ensure proper healing and stabilization of the tissues.
Post-operative care instructions
After the surgery, the periodontal surgeon will provide detailed instructions on how to properly care for the surgical area during the healing process. This may include recommendations on oral hygiene, dietary restrictions, and possible medications for pain and inflammation management.
It is important to note that each receding gum surgery may vary according to the individual needs of the patient and the technique used by the periodontal surgeon. Therefore, it is advisable to consult a periodontics specialist for an accurate assessment of your condition and obtain detailed information about the specific procedure that will be performed.
What gel and mouthwash is recommended for receding gums?
It is important to note that treatment of receding gums is generally done through dental procedures performed by dental professionals, such as gingival recession surgeries or tissue grafts. However, in terms of oral care products that can help maintain gum health, there are gels and mouthwashes that can be beneficial.
Recommended products for gum care
Below are some examples of products that can help maintain gum health:
- Chlorhexidine gel: Chlorhexidine is an effective antimicrobial agent that can help reduce bacterial plaque and gum inflammation. It can be found in gel or mouthwash form. However, chlorhexidine can cause tooth staining with long-term use, so it is important to follow the usage instructions and consult with a dental professional before using it long-term.
- Gel or mouthwash with fluoride: Fluoride is beneficial for strengthening teeth and preventing dental cavities. It can help maintain good overall dental health, including gums. Look for oral care products that contain fluoride to help protect teeth and gums.
- Gel or mouthwash with anti-inflammatory ingredients: Some gels or mouthwashes may contain anti-inflammatory ingredients, such as aloe vera or coenzyme Q10, that can help reduce gum inflammation and promote tissue healing.
It is important to note that the choice of a specific gel or mouthwash for receding gums may vary according to individual needs and recommendations. It is advisable to talk to a dentist or dental hygienist for personalized recommendations and determine which product is most suitable for your specific situation. In addition to using oral care products, it is essential to maintain good oral hygiene, which includes regular dental brushing with a soft brush, use of dental floss, and periodic visits to the dentist for a complete dental exam and professional cleanings.
What is the success rate of treatment for gum recession?
What are the benefits of having gum recession treatment at ENIQ?
The use of technology in gum recession treatment can offer a series of benefits. Some of the benefits include:
Precision and predictable results
Technology can help dental professionals make more accurate diagnoses and plan treatment more effectively. The use of tools such as digital imaging, computed tomography, and intraoral scanners allows for detailed images of gums and teeth, which facilitates the identification of the cause of recession and the design of a personalized treatment plan. This can lead to more predictable and satisfactory results.
Less discomfort for the patient
Technology can help minimize discomfort during gum recession treatment. For example, the use of technology-guided injection anesthesia can provide more precise anesthesia and reduce the sensation of pain or discomfort during the procedure. Additionally, some treatment techniques, such as the use of dental lasers, can be less invasive and more comfortable for the patient compared to conventional methods.
Faster recovery times
Some technologies used in gum recession treatment can accelerate the healing process and reduce recovery times. For example, the use of dental lasers can help minimize bleeding and tissue trauma, which can lead to faster recovery and less postoperative discomfort.
Aesthetic improvement
Technology can play an important role in the aesthetic improvement of gum recession treatment. For example, digital planning and result simulation can help visualize what the gums will look like after treatment, which allows for greater precision in correcting the shape and contour of the gums to achieve an optimal aesthetic result.
Greater efficiency and productivity
Some technologies, such as surgical navigation systems or specialized instruments, can help dental professionals perform procedures more efficiently and precisely. This can allow for more efficient use of time, a reduction in treatment time, and an improvement in overall productivity.
It is important to note that the incorporation of technology in gum recession treatment may vary according to the professional and the dental clinic. Not all clinics may have access to the same technologies. If you are interested in receiving gum recession treatment with technology, I would recommend looking for a professional specialized in periodontics or dentistry who is up to date with the latest techniques and technologies available in the field.
What is the price of treatment for gum recession?
Receding gum surgery
Price per quadrant
Discover our specialized service in the treatment of gum recession. We offer guaranteed effective and professional treatments to improve the health and aesthetics of your gums.
All inclusive
Frequently asked questions about receding gums
Answers to common questions about gum recession and its treatment in Madrid. customer service.
At Clínica ENIQ, periodontal access surgery without regeneration costs €410 per quadrant of the mouth and, if regeneration with Emdogain is indicated, €635 per quadrant. The price of a gum graft depends on the area to be treated and we confirm it at your assessment.
It is surgery to cover roots that have been exposed by recession. It is done under local anaesthetic: tissue is taken, usually from the palate (connective tissue graft), placed over the receded area and sutured so it heals and restores the gum line.
No, treatments for gum recession are not painful. They are performed under local anesthesia to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure. After the surgery, there may be some discomfort or sensitivity, but this is temporary and is easily controlled with pain relievers prescribed by your dentist. At ENIQ we use advanced techniques and digital anesthesia to minimize any discomfort during and after treatment.
A gum graft is not always necessary. Treatment depends on the severity of the recession and its cause. In mild cases, improving oral hygiene and treating periodontal disease may be sufficient. However, in more severe cases where there is significant loss of gingival tissue, a gum graft is the best option to cover exposed roots and prevent further recession. At ENIQ we evaluate each case individually to determine the most appropriate treatment.
Recovery time varies according to the type of procedure performed. Generally, initial recovery takes between 1 and 2 weeks, during which you should follow a soft diet and avoid brushing directly on the treated area. Complete healing can take 4 to 6 weeks. During this time, it is important to follow the post-care instructions provided by your dentist. At ENIQ we will provide you with detailed guidelines to ensure optimal recovery.
In some cases, especially in early stages, gum recession can be reversed with proper treatment and ongoing oral health management. However, in more advanced cases, although it cannot be completely reversed naturally, surgical procedures such as gum grafts can restore lost tissue and cover exposed roots. The success of treatment depends on the underlying cause, the severity of the recession, and the patient's commitment to post-treatment oral care.