Gum Recession

Gum recession is a common but potentially serious problem that increases your risk of tooth and bone loss. At Plaza Dental Group in West Des Moines, Iowa, the dental providers offer complete care for gum recession. Using a combination of patient education and specialized treatments, like the Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique, they can stop the infection from spreading and help you feel better. To learn more about gum recession treatment, call the office or use the online booking feature today.

What is gum recession?

Gum recession is a side effect of gum disease –– an infection of your gum tissue. It causes your gums to pull away from your teeth, making it easier for harmful bacteria to access your tooth roots, jaw, and alveolar bone (the bone that anchors your teeth).

If you develop symptoms of gum recession, like tooth sensitivity or gums that bleed when you brush and floss, reach out to the team at Plaza Dental Group right away.

What are the symptoms of gum recession?

The symptoms of gum recession include:

• Pain or sensitivity near your gumline
• Sensitivity to temperature changes, like hot and cold
• Pain when brushing or flossing your teeth
• Discomfort during teeth cleanings

Without early intervention and treatment, gum recession may lead to more serious problems like tooth loss. After an oral exam and a series of digital X-rays, your dentist can make custom treatment recommendations.

Who is at risk of gum recession?

Gum recession affects people from all backgrounds, but several factors may increase your risk, including:

• Brushing too hard
• Buildup of dental plaque and tartar
• Trauma or injury to the gum tissue
• Tooth or jaw misalignment
• Lip and tongue piercings

You’re also more likely to have receding gums if you smoke or use chewing tobacco.

How is gum recession diagnosed?

To diagnose gum recession, your dentist at Plaza Dental Group reviews your oral health records, completes an oral exam, and measures the size of your gum pockets with a ruler called a periodontal probe. 

Healthy pockets of gum tissue measure 3 millimeters or less, while pockets that are 4 millimeters or larger indicate gum disease.

How is gum recession treated?

Plaza Dental Group treats gum recession with the minimally invasive Chao Pinhole Surgical Technique. The team features an on-site dentist who has training in this cutting-edge procedure.

During treatment, your dentist makes a small hole in your gum tissue. Then, they use special instruments to gently loosen the tissue and cover your exposed tooth roots. 

The process is quick, convenient, and entirely pain-free. There are no grafts, sutures, or incisions. After adjusting your existing gum tissue, your dentist moves you to a recovery room and provides care instructions. 

Call Plaza Dental Group to request a gum recession consultation, or use the online booking feature today.