Treatment and Prevention of Gum Recession

Gum recession, or periodontal disease, is dangerous because it does not initially cause pain, yet delayed treatment can lead to tooth loss. How does periodontitis develop, and what effective treatments are known to stop this pathological process?

The Gums and Gum Diseases

Diseases of the tissues surrounding the teeth can lead to loosening and loss of teeth.

Periodontal Tissue

This primarily involves the gums, but also includes:

• The ligamentous connections around the teeth,

• The cement protecting the tooth roots, and

• The bones of the tooth socket.

The most common types of gum disease include:

• Gingivitis,

• Gum recession, and

• Periodontitis (gum disease).

Parodontology is the branch of science that deals with diseases of the gum and surrounding supporting tissues.

What is Gum Recession?

We speak of gum recession when chronic inflammation of the tissues supporting the teeth occurs, leading to eventual bone loss. The pathological process begins with plaque formation on the teeth, which turns into tartar; if not removed, this leads to gum inflammation. Untreated gingivitis can spread to the bone, potentially leading to tooth loss.

Symptoms of Gum Recession

Symptoms of gum recession include:

• Bleeding during brushing or flossing,

• Red, swollen gums,

• Bad breath,

• Pain along the gum line,

• Visibly receding gums,

• Exposed tooth roots, and

• Loose teeth.

Causes of Gum Recession

The primary cause of gum recession is unremoved tartar, which causes inflammation in the gums, as well as:

• Inadequate oral hygiene,

• Hormonal changes (e.g., during menopause and pregnancy),

• Genetic factors,

• Smoking,

• Crowded teeth,

• Improper dental restorations (e.g., overly high fillings),

• Diabetes,

• Stress,

• Bruxism,

• Overly vigorous brushing,

• Unhealthy diet, and

• A weakened immune system.

Treatment of Gum Recession

Although periodontal disease is irreversible, it is possible to halt bone loss and inflammation.

Treatment typically begins with ultrasonic tartar removal above and below the gum line. While tartar above the gum line is primarily removed with an ultrasonic scaler, tartar below the gum line is generally removed manually (curettage).

Closed Curettage

This involves the removal of inflamed tissues, the pocket wall, and the infected root cement layer.

Open Curettage

For cleaning deep, hard-to-reach pockets and smoothing root surfaces, cuts are made in the gum for better visibility and more effective cleaning. This procedure is performed under local anesthesia, making it painless for the patient.

Home Treatment for Gum Recession

Naturally, gum recession cannot be treated at home. Toothpaste or mouthwash for gum recession can only help in prevention. Before using tea tree oil or gum-strengthening capsules for gum recession, consider that the best remedy for gum recession is a visit to the dentist.

Prevention is the Best Cure Against Gum Recession

The best method against gum recession is to prevent symptom worsening and do everything possible for proper oral hygiene. Brush daily, use floss, and visit your dentist or periodontist at least twice a year for check-ups and tartar removal. Naturally, a healthy diet, quitting smoking, and monitoring changes in the oral cavity are also essential if we want to avoid chronic inflammation.

Fehérvári Dental: Professional Dental Care in the Heart of Budapest

Since our establishment in 1997, we strive to ensure that your family receives the highest quality and comprehensive care from toddlers to great-grandparents. Our specialists cover every area of dentistry, thus complex treatments requiring multiple dental surgeons can be conducted on-site. Our team's professional and coordinated operation is evident throughout the entire care process—from specialist consultations to administrative tasks.

Our dental facility represents a high standard in design and technical equipment. Our three-story clinic houses 3 modern treatment rooms and a diagnostic imaging area (panoramic X-ray, cephalometric X-ray, CBCT, intraoral). The floors are connected by a spacious elevator, which is conveniently accessible for patients with mobility restrictions and those with strollers.

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