According to the CDC, between 45 and 70% of American adults have gum disease. While that includes mild cases of gingivitis, any case can develop into more serious forms, including receding gums, which can lead to tooth loss if left unchecked.
If you’ve noticed that some of your teeth seem longer than they used to be, or if you’ve recently developed sensitivities to cold and hot food and drink, you may be seeing the signs of gum recession. Fortunately, you don’t have to live with the problem. A visit with the gum rejuvenation specialists at Global Facial Aesthetics, located in River Forest, Illinois, is your solution.
The gum disease progression
Plaque build-up is a significant factor in gum disease. Food particles serve as fuel for bacterial growth. Fortunately, utilizing regular dental office cleanings, plaque and tartar can be held in check and gum disease doesn’t advance.
But when plaque and tartar gain the upper hand, they can undermine the gum tissue, creating pockets that allow bacteria to grow beyond the reaches of brushes and floss. You may attempt to combat these conditions with more aggressive home care, but aggressive brushing also contributes to receding gums over time.
Other risk factors
Hormonal changes, such as those that occur at menopause, can also contribute to gum disease and receding gums. Smokers have increased risk, as do people with family histories that include gum disease. Dry mouth is a contributor since inadequate saliva can lead to higher concentrations of harmful bacteria. Men generally develop receding gums more often than women.
Treating receding gums
In its early stages, gum recession may not require treatment. But chances are, by the time you notice longer teeth, you’ll be past that point. You’ll need extra dental care to stop the progression.
The precise treatment depends on your case and its causes, and, typically, it will involve several strategies. First, we may suggest home care changes, such as switching to a soft-bristled toothbrush or adding toothpaste formulated to help receding gums or sensitive teeth.
Dr. Alder may recommend more frequent cleaning appointments to counter fast-growing plaque and stop the progression of gum recession. More advanced cases could require tissue grafts to restore gum coverage and protect your tooth roots from exposure.
Though gum disease progresses slowly, it has serious consequences to both your oral and general health. When it advances to receding gums, you can no longer treat it with brushing, flossing, and over-the-counter dental care products. You need the professional dental services offered by Global Facial Aesthetics in River Forest, Illinois.
Contact the office by calling the appointment line at 708-251-1219 or by using the Request Appointment link at the upper right of this page. It’s the first step in breaking the gum disease cycle. Book now.