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Dental Oral Surgery and Gum Recession
Posted on 5/15/2025 by Elite Dental of Natick
A close-up view of dental tools with a dentist and assistant working on a patient in the background during a dental surgery. Gum recession is a common dental problem that can occur when your gums recede, or pull away from your teeth. This exposes the root surface, which is not as strong as the enamel on your teeth and is more prone to decay.

Gum recession can be caused by several factors, including:

•  Gum disease (periodontal disease): This is the most common cause of gum recession. Gum disease is an infection of the gums that can damage the tissues and bone that support your teeth.
•  Aggressive tooth brushing: Brushing your teeth too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can damage your gums and cause them to recede.
•  Tobacco use: Smoking and chewing tobacco can damage your gums and make them more susceptible to recession.
•  Teeth grinding (bruxism): Grinding your teeth can put a lot of stress on your gums and cause them to recede.
•  Genetics: Some people are more likely to develop gum recession than others.

If you are concerned about gum recession, it is important to see a dentist. They can determine the cause of your gum recession and recommend the best treatment options.

Treatment for Gum Recession


The treatment for gum recession will depend on the severity of the recession and the underlying cause. In some cases, gum recession can be treated with non-surgical methods, such as:

•  Scaling and root planing: This is a deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line.
•  Antibiotics: Antibiotics may be prescribed to treat gum disease.
•  Mouthwash: Antiseptic mouthwash can help to control plaque and bacteria.

In other cases, gum recession may require surgical treatment. There are several different types of gum surgery, including:

•  Gum grafting: This procedure involves taking a small piece of tissue from another part of your mouth and grafting it to the area of gum recession.
•  Connective tissue graft: This procedure is similar to gum grafting, but it uses connective tissue instead of gum tissue.
•  Flap surgery: This procedure involves lifting the gums away from the teeth to clean the roots and remove any damaged bone.

Prevention of Gum Recession


The best way to prevent gum recession is to practice good oral hygiene. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and seeing your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. You should also avoid smoking and using tobacco products. If you have any of the risk factors for gum recession, it is important to be especially vigilant about your oral hygiene. You should see your dentist more often for checkups and cleanings, and you may need to use a special toothpaste or mouthwash to help control plaque and bacteria.

Conclusion


Gum recession is a common problem that can be caused by several factors, including gum disease, aggressive tooth brushing, tobacco use, teeth grinding, and genetics. If you are concerned about gum recession, it is important to see a dentist. They can determine the cause of your gum recession and recommend the best treatment options. The best way to prevent gum recession is to practice good oral hygiene. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and seeing your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. You should also avoid smoking and using tobacco products.

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Elite Dental of Natick
All Your Dental Needs.
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Elite Dental of Natick


232 Pond St.
Natick, MA 01760-4376

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Elite Dental of Natick, 232 Pond St., Natick, MA 01760; (508) 319-9339; elitedentalofnatick.com; 6/22/2025; Page Terms:Dentist Natick MA;