We have all heard the phrase “getting long in the tooth”. Though it originated as a folksy way to indicate you can tell a horse’s age by looking at their teeth, it can also be applied to humans, and a way of describing recession of the gums.
Maybe you first notice it when looking in the mirror while brushing of flossing. Or you take a new profile pic for social media and your smile looks different. As the gumline recedes, your teeth may suddenly seem longer.
One of the first signs of receding gums is an increase in tooth sensitivity, especially while eating or drinking. Eventually, the condition may leave the root of your teeth showing, which can lead to severe dental problems if left untreated. The earlier you and your dentist are aware of the problem, the more proactive measures you both can take to delay or even stop the problem from getting worse.
Whether you first notice it yourself or your dentist says something during a routine check-up, there are a few things you can do to stop your gums from receding further.
Some gum treatments include:
Scaling and Root Planing: Most times, this procedure can be done in one visit but may require more. The treatment involves smoothing out the roots of the teeth, which can help the gums find their way back to your teeth. You might need a local anesthetic during this procedure.
Gum Surgery: If your case becomes more severe, your dentist may recommend surgery. This can be done through regeneration or through open flap scaling and planing.
Gum Grafts: If the gum tissue has become too small (or even non-existent) to work with, your dentist may recommend you undergo a gum graft. This procedure requires taking gum tissue from other parts of your mouth and stitching it the exposed root.
Your best chance of slowing down or avoiding gum recession and having to endure the above procedures is practicing good oral hygiene and scheduling regular checkups at the dentist. This is why a dental plan from your association and AMBA is so important. Whether it’s for routine check-ups or more complex treatments, being covered can help you keep your teeth and gums as healthy as possible. Find out more at www.AMBAdentalvision.com or call 866-979-0497.
Source: https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-oral-health-receding-gums
