WatchGum Recession
Teeth looking longer than they used to? Understanding gum recession
If a tooth looks longer or more yellow than its neighbors, or if hot and cold drinks suddenly cause a sharp jolt, the cause is often gum recession. When the gums pull back, the root of the tooth — which is softer and more porous than the enamel above it — becomes exposed, leading to sensitivity, root cavities, and uneven smile esthetics.
This video explains what causes recession and why it's important to address. Common culprits include aggressive brushing, crowded teeth, grinding from untreated TMJ issues, untreated gum disease, and occasionally just the way the teeth are positioned in the jaw. Once recession starts, it usually progresses if the underlying cause isn't addressed.
The most common treatment is a soft tissue graft, which takes a small piece of gum tissue from your mouth or from a donor source and secures it over the exposed root. The graft both protects the tooth from further damage and restores a more even, natural-looking gumline.
If you're noticing any of these changes, please don't wait. At Brammeier Dental of Naperville we'll evaluate the cause, treat any contributing factors, and determine whether a grafting procedure is right for you before the recession progresses further.
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Our complete treatment guide covers what to expect, the procedure step by step, recovery, costs, and answers to the questions patients ask most.
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