Gum Recession in Naperville, IL
Each tooth depends on a protective seal of gum tissue, and once that seal breaks down, the tooth and the bone around it are put at risk. That breakdown is gum recession: the gum tissue pulls back from the teeth and exposes the roots, leaving them open to decay, sensitivity, and further damage. In many cases it is an early warning sign of underlying periodontal disease. Dr. Brammeier can pinpoint what is driving your recession and recommend the right treatment at Brammeier Dental of Naperville, along with home-care guidance built around protecting your gums for the long term.
What it is
When gum tissue is slowly lost, the protective seal around your teeth gives way, tooth roots become exposed, and those roots are left open to decay, sensitivity, and bone loss.
Who it affects
It shows up most often in adults over 40, though gum recession can affect anyone. Common risk factors are gum disease, aggressive brushing, genetics, teeth grinding, and misaligned teeth.
How we help
We start with a thorough evaluation to pinpoint the cause, favor non-surgical treatment whenever possible, and turn to soft tissue grafting to regenerate lost gum tissue and restore root coverage when it is needed.
Receding gums never recover on their own. Treating them early prevents further damage.
Symptoms of Gum Recession
- Sensitivity: As roots become exposed, hot and cold temperatures start to cause discomfort
- Longer-looking teeth: As gum tissue pulls back, teeth begin to look longer than normal
- Exposed roots: Below the gum line, the darker root surface starts to show
- Discoloration: Compared with the crown, exposed roots often look yellowish or brownish
- Loose teeth: Teeth can begin to feel mobile once the supporting tissue is lost
- Increased cavities: Softer than enamel, exposed root surfaces are more prone to decay
Causes of Gum Recession
- Periodontal disease: Supporting bone and tissue are destroyed by the bacteria behind gum disease
- Aggressive brushing: Gum tissue wears away when you brush too hard or use a hard-bristled toothbrush
- Poor oral hygiene: Chronic inflammation and recession follow when plaque and tartar build up
- Genetics: Thinner gum tissue runs in some families as an inherited trait
- Grinding and clenching: Gums recede under the excessive forces these habits put on teeth
- Misaligned teeth: Teeth that don't line up properly create uneven forces that drive localized recession
Treatment Options
- Address the cause: When gum disease is present, the first step is typically scaling and root planing
- Soft tissue grafting: A gum graft re-covers exposed roots and regenerates the tissue that was lost
- Bite correction: Recession driven by excessive force can be stopped by adjusting the bite or treating grinding
- Improved technique: A soft toothbrush and a gentler brushing technique help prevent further damage
- Night guard: Grinding-related recession is held in check by a custom night guard
- Dr. Brammeier will recommend the best approach once the cause and severity of your recession are clear
Early treatment for gum recession is simpler and more effective. Don't wait until sensitivity turns into pain.
What Your Visit Will Involve
Visit Steps
- Evaluation: Dr. Brammeier checks your gum tissue, measures the recession, and identifies the underlying cause
- Diagnosis: You get a clear explanation of your condition and what is behind it
- Treatment plan: Based on severity, your options may range from better home care to soft tissue grafting
- Treatment: When appropriate, non-surgical approaches come first, and grafting is recommended once recession is significant
- Follow-up: Ongoing monitoring confirms the recession has stopped and any grafts are healing well
Helpful Tips
- Reach for a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush in gentle, circular motions rather than scrubbing back and forth
- Treat sensitivity seriously, because it is often recession's first sign
- Grinding your teeth at night? Ask about a custom night guard
- Keep flossing. Done properly it won't cause recession, but skipping it invites the gum disease that will
- Act on recession early, since treatment grows more complex the more gum tissue is lost
- Talk with {{ site.doctorName }} about soft tissue grafting options for restoring lost gum tissue
Frequently Asked Questions
Schedule your gum recession evaluation today. Protect your roots. Protect your smile.