Gum Recession in Oklahoma City, OK

Gum recession is the loss of gum tissue. It creates an indentation, or "pocket," along the gum line. Healthy gums fit closely around teeth and cover the tooth roots. Gum recession exposes the roots of the teeth and can cause sensitivity, tooth discoloration, and decay.

This condition is most common in adults over the age of 40. Gum recession is often caused by the natural aging process. It is important to note that gum recession is not the same as gum disease. It is, however, a symptom of gum disease. As patients age, their gums naturally start to recede. Receding gums may also be caused by aggressive tooth brushing or teeth grinding.

Causes of Gum Recession

Gum recession is when the gum tissue that surrounds the teeth begins to wear away. It's caused by both wear of the teeth themselves and increased pressure in the bite.

1. Worn Teeth

The teeth can become worn down because of several factors. For example, teeth can become worn over time due to bruxism or teeth grinding.

2. Increased Bite Pressure

Over time, the pressure on the teeth can increase due to:

• Teeth that are crooked or misaligned
• Missing teeth
• A misaligned bite

3. Gum Tissue Abnormalities

Other issues that can lead to gum recession include:

• A tooth that doesn't have an opposing tooth
• An abscess
• A misaligned jaw
• An uneven gum line

What Are the Warning Signs of Gum Recession?

Early warning signs of gum recession include:

• Teeth move or shift into adjacent spaces 
• Teeth appear longer than adjacent teeth
• Teeth appear longer when biting down
• Teeth appear to have longer roots than normal
• Exposed tooth roots 
• Tooth sensitivity to cold or hot temperatures
• Bad breath

If you experience any of these symptoms, please contact our office for a consultation.

Treatment Options for Gum Recession

If the dentist in Oklahoma City, OK has diagnosed you with gum recession, there are several treatment options available.

The first line of treatment that may be recommended is deep cleaning. Deep cleaning involves removing plaque and tartar from the teeth to reduce the number of bacteria in your mouth. This can help prevent the recession from getting worse.

The dentist may also recommend gum grafting. Gum grafting is a surgical procedure that increases the amount of gum tissue. This helps prevent future gum recession and protects the exposed roots of your teeth.

At J. Russell Danner, DDS, we offer the best dental care possible to each of our patients in a positive and relaxing environment. If you're ready to experience the best dental care, please contact us at 405-749-1676 or visit us at 4514 Memorial Cir Suite A, Oklahoma City, OK 73142.