Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue surrounding the teeth begins to pull back or wear away, exposing more of the root of the tooth. This can lead to a host of dental problems, including tooth sensitivity, decay and even tooth loss. In this article, we explain how a dentist identifies the problems associated with this common condition.

Gum Recession Symptoms

This condition can be challenging to identify in the early stages, but some of the most common symptoms include:

  • Longer teeth than before
  • Sensitivity to hot and cold foods
  • A notch or a dip in the gum line
  • Gum bleeding during brushing or flossing
  • Bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to consult with your dentist to identify the cause and get appropriate treatment.

Diagnosing Gum Recession

When you visit your dentist, they will perform a thorough oral exam to determine the severity of your gum recession. Here are some of the diagnostic methods that your dentist may use:

  • Probing: Your dentist will use a dental probe to measure the depth of the pockets between your teeth and gums. This helps them identify the severity of the gum recession.
  • X-Rays: Your dentist may also take X-Rays to determine the extent of bone loss in the affected area.
  • Visual Inspection: Your dentist will visually inspect the affected area to determine the severity of the gum recession.

Severe Gum Recession

Severe cases of recession requires prompt treatment to prevent further damage and tooth loss. If you have severe gum recession, your dentist may recommend one or more of the following treatments:

  • Gum Graft Surgery: This is a surgical procedure that involves taking tissue from the roof of your mouth and attaching it to the affected gum area to promote new tissue growth.
  • Pinhole Surgical Technique: This is a minimally invasive gum recession treatment that involves creating a small hole in the gum tissue and using special instruments to move the tissue down to cover the exposed root.
  • Scaling and Root Planing: This is a non-surgical gum recession treatment that involves removing plaque and tartar from the teeth and roots.

Prevent Gum Recession

Prevention involves taking care of your oral health and addressing any dental problems promptly. Here are some prevention tips:

Summary

  • Gum recession is a common dental problem that can lead to more severe dental problems if you don’t get it treated.
  • If you seek prompt treatment from your dentist at the soonest opportunity, you can prevent further damage and tooth loss.
  • If you’re experiencing severe symptoms, it’s crucial to seek professional help from your dentist to get the appropriate treatment.
  • Taking steps such as maintaining good oral hygiene and avoiding tobacco products, can help keep your gums healthy and prevent dental problems.

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