Gum Recession

Taking proper care of your mouth is essential for every component contained inside, including your gums. The American Dental Association, or ADA, recommends that you brush your teeth at least twice a day, and floss at least once daily. Along with this at-home care routine, it is also recommended that you have your teeth professionally cleaned and examined at least twice a year. During your professional exams, your mouth is checked for all kinds of issues, including gum recession. Gum recession might not sound like a big deal, but it can lead to some serious problems. At Oregon Periodontics, P.C., we are here to help.

The Importance of Gum Tissue

Many people tend to think that healthy teeth are the only things that matter to a healthy mouth. The truth is, having healthy gums is just as important. Your gums, while seemingly just some soft tissue covering the jawbone, play several essential roles. For one, healthy gum tissue sits snugly against the necks of your teeth. In this position, they provide a protective barrier against bacteria that could otherwise attack the roots of your teeth and the supporting structures below. Moreover, while the periodontal ligaments and jawbone provide much of the support for your teeth, the gums help to provide some as well. The tissue covers the roots of the teeth, protecting against sensitivity. Along with these functional jobs, the gums also help to provide you with a beautiful smile.

Causes of Gum Recession

One of the most common causes of gum recession is periodontal disease. When the gums are irritated, which is caused by a buildup of plaque and bacteria, the tissue becomes inflamed. Eventually, it begins to pull away from the teeth and begins to die. The longer periodontal disease goes untreated, the further the gums recede. Other causes of gum recession include:

•	Aggressive brushing. Some people think brushing harder yields better results. The truth is, brushing too hard can cause more harm than good. Your gum tissue is sensitive, and brushing too hard can brush the tissue right out of your mouth.
•	Bruxism, or grinding and clenching your teeth. Constantly grinding your teeth, which often happens while you sleep, can wear away gum tissue.
•	Soft tissue trauma. In the event of a facial injury to the gum tissue, it can begin to recede.
•	Malocclusion. When your teeth are misaligned, gum recession is more likely.
•	Poorly fitting partial dentures. Ill-fitting dentures can rub against your gums, causing recession around healthy teeth.
•	Genetics. Some people are genetically predisposed to thin or weak gums.
•	Prominent tooth roots. These can push gum tissue out of place.
•	Smoking, or any other type of tobacco product. These products contain hundreds of harmful chemicals that can destroy your gum tissue.

Treatments for Gum Recession

There are various treatments available for gum recession, depending upon the cause and your specific needs:

•	A change in your brushing routine. If the recession is caused by aggressive brushing, it can often be stopped by using a soft bristled brush and a gentler technique.
•	Deep cleaning. Known as scaling and root planing, this procedure removes all buildup, including the most stubborn tartar, from the surfaces of your teeth, both above and below the gumline. This helps to remove the irritants, plaque, and bacteria, and provides relief for your gums.
•	A gum graft. If your gums have receded too far, a gum graft can help. This surgical procedure takes healthy tissue from under the roof of your mouth and places it over the recessed areas. The tissues grow together to form a natural, healthy gumline.

If gum recession is affecting your mouth, it can be treated. For more information, and to schedule your consultation, contact Oregon Periodontics, P.C. today at (503) 575-7750.

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Office Hours
Tuesday–Thursday
8:00 AM–3:00 PM
Friday
8:00 AM–12:00 PM

Location
11786 Southwest Barnes Rd Suite 210
Portland, OR 97225-5925

Contact
Office: (503) 575-7750
Fax: (503) 531-3560

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