Can Cosmetic Dentistry Fix Receding Gums?

What Causes Gum Recession?

The term gum recession refers to a situation where the gum tissue pulls back from the tooth and exposes the root. One of the first signs people notice with gum recession is their teeth looking longer.

But what causes it?

Well, there could be a few different things:

• Gum disease (periodontitis)
• Trauma to the gums
• Aging
• Brushing the teeth too aggressively
• Genetics, etc.

Knowing the cause of gum recession is crucial because it can influence the treatment tremendously. For instance, if your recession is caused by periodontitis, you will first need the appropriate treatment to heal the gums and prevent further damage, including tooth loss.

Restoring your smile’s appearance will be delayed until you treat gum disease.
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Which Cosmetic Treatments Can Fix Receding Gums?

Cosmetic treatments don’t fix receding gums in the sense that they don’t treat the underlying condition. But cosmetic dentistry has some ways it can improve the smile’s appearance.

These can include:

• Gum grafts: A surgery where the dentist takes a piece of gum tissue from a healthy area of the mouth and places it over the section where the gums are pulled back. The graft will fuse to the rest of your tissue and restore your smile;

• Gum veneers: Like tooth veneers, gum veneers are custom-made to cover the gums and restore their appearance;

• Pinhole surgery: A one-hour appointment that involves making a small incision into the gums and adding a collagen strip underneath them. This surgery helps stabilize the gums and even encourages gum healing and regrowth.
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Which Cosmetic Solution Is Right for Me?

The answer to this question can depend on a few different factors, most importantly the extent of your gum recession and what’s causing it.

Meeting with a cosmetic dentist is the best way to learn which cosmetic treatment can restore your gums and your smile. During it, a cosmetic dentist will take a close look at your mouth and establish a personalized treatment plan.

Sometimes, you may also need some restorative measures before your cosmetic treatment, like in the case of gum disease. This may delay your cosmetic restoration slightly, but it will lead to a healthier smile!
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How Consultants In Dental Aesthetics Can Help

If you’re dealing with gum recession and what to learn your options, come see Dr. Landry or Dr. Dela Cruz for a quick consultation.

This way, you can unlock your optimal treatment plan toward a healthier and visually-pleasing smile.

Request an appointment to Consultants In Dental Aesthetics online, or call us at (281) 370-8786 to learn more about our cosmetic treatments.