05 Oct Receding gums
Gum recession is a condition in which part of the gum covering the teeth is lost.
It is called gingival recession, and it is defined as an apical migration of the gingival margin in relation to the joint between the cementum covering the root and the crown enamel.
Causes:
-Gingivitis or periodontitis.
-Aggressive brushing.
-Tooth overcrowding.
-Closeness to a frenum insertion.
-Insufficient keratinazed gum tissue.
-Occlusal trauma (teeth clenching or bruxism).
-Overcontoured restorations (fillings).
-Orthodontic movements that bring the root closer to the limit of the alveolar bone.
-Defects of the underlying bone (fenestrations and dehiscences).
Treatment of receding gums:
Connective tissue graft (gum graft) or other mucogingival surgery techniques. Treating receding gums is convenient:
-To improve aesthetics.
-In situations when the patient has difficulties in maintaining good hygiene.
-When, prior to an orthodontic treatment, we notice that the gum is thin and the teeth movement could give rise to a bone desistance.
-When the patient has cold sensitivity.
Prognosis:
The success of the treatment of receding gums depends on:
-The classification (depends on the extent and the insertion loss).
-Location of the recession.
-The technique used.
-Skills and expertise of the periodontist (gum specialist).
In Ortoperio Clinic, Dr. David González, Periodontist (gum specialist), is in charge of the receding gums treatments.