Have you noticed a specific spot along your gumline that looks a bit lower than it used to? Or are you experiencing newfound sensitivity when you drink cold water? Gum recession may be to blame.
Gum recession happens when the pink tissue surrounding your teeth wears away or pulls back, exposing the underlying roots. It often occurs very slowly, so you may not even notice it until it begins causing structural changes or discomfort.
At Southshore Dental, we identify the cause of the recession so we can implement the best treatment to preserve tissue and your smile.
Why Do Gums Pull Back?
Common causes of gum recession in Trenton include:
- Chronic clenching and grinding (bruxism) that applies compressive forces, which thins bone and causes baseline gum tissue to pull back.
- Aggressive brushing, which can physically wear down fragile gum margins.
- Subtle tooth misalignment, which causes some teeth to absorb greater chewing force, which punishes the surrounding gum tissue.
- Periodontal disease progression, as the inflammatory response can gradually break down attachment fibers and the supporting jawbone.
The Risk of Gum Tissue Pulling Back
When cementum is exposed to the elements via gum recession, it introduces two major issues:
- Direct Nerve Sensitivity: The root structure contains thousands of microscopic pathways leading straight to the tooth’s internal nerve chamber. Hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods can travel down the pathways, causing a sharp pain.
- Accelerated Root Decay: Root surfaces are softer than enamel and will struggle to fight off bacteria. That’s why they are more susceptible to fast, intense cavities.
Our Gum Recession Treatment in Trenton
Our targeted gum recession solutions address the underlying cause of your concern.
- Bite Decompression (Custom Night Guards): If tooth grinding is the primary culprit behind your shifting tissue, a custom-fitted protective night guard will absorb those destructive forces while you sleep, immediately taking the pressure off your fragile gumline.
- Deep Cleanings & Tissue Stabilization: When bacterial inflammation is the cause, a specialized deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) is the ideal way to clear away bacteria beneath the gumline. The thorough cleaning helps remaining tissue to calm down and firmly reattach to the smooth root surfaces.
- Protective Desensitizing & Restorations: If the exposed root is highly sensitive or starting to show structural wear, we can apply advanced desensitizing agents or a protective, tooth-colored composite layer over the exposed area.
Secure Your Smile’s Foundation
Your gums keep your teeth structurally sound and secure, which is why gum recession poses such a risk to your long-term dental health. If you’ve noticed your teeth looking longer or are tired of dealing with daily temperature sensitivity, come to Southshore Dental. Schedule your appointment today for gum recession treatment in Trenton.