Gingival recession: consequences to consider

Most often painless, gum recession can go unnoticed for some time. Yet gingival recession can have serious consequences for your oral health. Studio Paro, which caters specifically for patients with gum or periodontal disorders, explains what’s involved.

How do you identify gingival recession?

The term gingival recession refers to the recession of the gums, revealing the root of the tooth. Patients are left with the impression that their teeth have lengthened, making their smile less harmonious.

Other symptoms of receding gums include increased tooth sensitivity, especially to cold. Painful brushing, bleeding or inflammation may also alert you.

What causes gums to recede?

The causes of gingival recession are essentially mechanical. Brushing too vigorously, using the wrong technique, or using a hard brush can damage gum tissue and lead to retraction.

Some orthodontic appliances, especially those that push teeth outwards, also reduce the space available for the gums – leading to recession.

Certain aggravating factors can accelerate gum loss. This is the case in the presence of tartar or recurrent inflammation of the tissues of the mouth.

What are the possible consequences of gingival retraction?

The main consequence of gum recession is the risk of tooth loosening. The exposed root is no longer protected from bacterial attack, which can lead to decay and periodontal disease. Insufficiently supported, the tooth begins to move and may even fall out if left untreated.

Gum retraction also has an impact on patients’ comfort and well-being. Brushing becomes unpleasant due to hypersensitivity. The aesthetics of the smile are also affected by the apparent lengthening of the teeth.

Finally, gingival recession accelerates tooth wear and increases the risk of developing cavities.

How can gum recession be treated?

Fortunately, there are treatments for gingival retraction. This involves strengthening the tissues in the weakened area: this is known as muco-gingival surgery.

This completely painless and perfectly controlled surgical technique involves removing a small amount of tissue from the palate to cover the missing gum tissue. Depending on the extent of the problem, the dental surgeon can thicken or readjust the gum tissue to restore root protection.

Muco-gingival surgery is performed under local anaesthetic, following a pre-operative appointment during which your practitioner performs a full oral and dental check-up. Once the procedure is complete, you go home with painkillers prescribed by the surgeon.

Once healed, your teeth are once again protected, and your smile is restored to its natural appearance. The risk of recurrence is very low, thanks to brushing advice from your dentist.

Every year, Studio Paro treats hundreds of patients for gum problems and periodontal disease. In a friendly atmosphere, a caring team welcomes you and answers all your questions. In this way, you become an active participant in your own care.

The health of your gums determines the health of your teeth and can influence your general well-being: consult a specialist dentist by making an appointment at Studio Paro in Lyon 3.

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