Gum recession is a silent and slow-moving problem that can sneak up on your smile. It can be a side effect of gum disease or the result of vigorous brushing with a hard bristle toothbrush.
Today, we'll discuss why gum recession is problematic, what you can do about it, and how your Glendale dentist can help.
What Is Gum Recession?
Like hair loss causes a receding hairline, gum loss causes receding gums. This exposes your tooth's root, which can cause sensitivity and other problems like root cavities. Receding gums also promote bone loss, which ultimately results in tooth loss. This is why keeping your gums strong and healthy is integral to your overall dental health.
How to Guard Your Gums Against Recession
Your best defense against gum recession and loss is routine brushing and flossing at home. Gently brushing with a soft bristle toothbrush and massaging your gums instead of scrubbing them will help protect delicate gum tissue and keep it healthy. Using an electric toothbrush is also a great way to successfully brush your teeth without harming your gums.
Routine visits to your dentist every six months for professional teeth cleanings and exams are also critical for the health of your gums and teeth. Your dentist can spot problems like gum recession early on when they may be easier and less costly to treat.
Gum Recession Treatment in Glendale, CA
If you, like many of us, experience gum recession, modern dentistry offers excellent treatment options.
In the past, you would have to endure gum grafting surgery to cover and eliminate your gum recession. This involved taking tissue from the palate of your mouth and surgically placing it over the receded areas of your teeth, where it would take weeks to heal and integrate with your gum tissue.
Today, we have an excellent gum recession treatment option called the Pinhole Surgical Technique (PST). This technique provides Dr. Kim access to your gums through a small needle-sized hole in your tissue. He then uses special tools to gradually spread the tissue, gently moving it over the receded areas, encouraging new growth. The tissue is anchored in its new position with collagen strips, promoting accelerated healing.
The Benefits of PST
PST offers several advantages over traditional gum surgery that patients appreciate:
- A quicker and more efficient procedure
- No cutting or sutures needed
- No grafting
- Less discomfort during the procedure
- Easier and more comfortable healing process
- Minimal downtime from work and normal daily activities
PST also tends to be a less expensive procedure than traditional gum grafting surgery.
Is It Time for Your Next Dental Cleaning and Checkup?
Dr. Kim and his team provide general dentistry in Glendale, focusing on patient comfort and care. We aim to make your experience pleasant, whether you're maintaining your smile with a simple teeth cleaning or you need gum recession treatment.
We invite you to call our team at (818) 242-3739 to book your next dental visit. You can also request an appointment at our Glendale dental office online.