San Antonio receding gums patients usually seek treatment after they notice that the tissue around their teeth has worn away significantly. The recession may have already exposed the tooth root and created a pocket where bacteria can grow.
At this stage, the condition may have already loosened the teeth and weakened the jawbone. KRK Implant Center doesn’t want the issue to reach this point before patients respond. That’s why it’s important to recognize the signs and take action early.
Consider the Causes of Receding Gums
You can prevent receding gums by avoiding certain behaviors or recognizing specific causes. The most common include:
- Improper oral care and periodontal disease;
- Genetic predisposition;
- Overly-aggressive toothbrushing;
- Tobacco use; and
- Tooth grinding.
Essentially, any ongoing irritation of the gums and teeth can make your gums recede. If you meet any of these criteria, be especially vigilant about changes in your mouth.
How San Antonio Receding Gums Patients Can Fight the Condition
Understanding the causes should give you some insight into preventing or resolving the condition.
First, make sure you are brushing and flossing your teeth correctly. This means using proper technique so you don’t irritate the gums, and cleaning your mouth regularly, as recommended by your dentist.
Speaking of dentists, be certain you are seeing your general practitioner on a regular basis. He or she will be able to recognize the early signs of gum recession and can often advise you on handling the condition.
If you know that your parents dealt with receding gums at some point, you may be more susceptible to oral health problems. The same is true if you smoke or chew tobacco, or if you grind your teeth. In any of these cases, take note if your teeth appear longer than normal or if your gums seem to be moving away from the teeth.
Treatment for Receding Gums
KRK Implant Center can treat mild gum recession with a deep cleaning, which involves tooth scaling and root planing. Essentially, it’s a treatment that targets the build-up of plaque and tartar under and above the gum line. Doctor Krueger uses a local anesthetic to allow you to be more comfortable during the process.
After your deep cleaning, Doctor Krueger will evaluate your progress and advise you whether you require further treatment. Most patients respond very well to deep cleaning, but there are additional procedures we offer to address the most serious cases, including gum surgery and other treatment that can repair damage to teeth and bone.
Learn more about the care KRK Implant Center offers in San Antonio. Patients with receding can contact us at 210.826.3946 or fill out the form on the right.