Gum recession happens when the gum tissue surrounding your teeth wears away or pulls back, exposing more of the tooth or its root. This common condition affects many adults and can lead to sensitivity, increased risk of decay, and changes in your smile’s appearance. If left untreated, receding gums may continue to worsen and potentially lead to tooth loss.
The good news is that several effective treatment options exist to address gum recession, ranging from non-invasive approaches to surgical procedures. The right choice depends on the severity of your recession, the underlying cause, and your overall oral health. Understanding your options can help you make an informed decision about restoring your gum health and protecting your smile.
2 Surgical Options for Gum Recession
Your dentist may recommend surgery as the best option for your gum recession. This may look like:
Gum Grafting Surgery
Gum grafting remains one of the most reliable methods for treating moderate to severe gum recession. During this procedure, tissue is taken from the roof of your mouth or a donor source and attached to areas where gum tissue has receded. The graft covers exposed roots, reduces sensitivity, and helps prevent additional recession.
This approach works particularly well when recession has progressed significantly or when multiple teeth are affected. The procedure typically requires local anesthesia, and healing takes several weeks. While you may experience some discomfort during recovery, many patients find the long-term benefits worth the temporary inconvenience. The new tissue integrates with your existing gums, creating a more natural and protective barrier for your teeth.
LANAP Laser Treatment
Laser-assisted new attachment procedure (LANAP) offers a minimally invasive alternative to traditional gum surgery. Using the PerioLase MVP-7 Nd:YAG laser, this FDA-approved treatment can promote gum tissue regeneration without the need for cutting or stitching. The laser targets diseased tissue while leaving healthy tissue intact, which may encourage your body’s natural healing response.
LANAP works best for patients with gum recession caused by periodontal disease. The precision of laser dentistry often results in less discomfort, reduced bleeding, and faster recovery compared to conventional surgery. Many patients return to their normal activities the same day. The PerioLase system is the only FDA-approved device that may help regenerate bone, making it a powerful option for addressing gum and bone loss simultaneously.
2 Non-Surgical Options for Gum Recession
There are also non-surgical options for less serious cases, which include the following:
Deep Cleaning and Root Planing
For mild to moderate gum recession caused by periodontal disease, root planing may be an effective first-line treatment. This deep cleaning procedure removes plaque and tartar buildup from below the gum line and smooths the tooth roots to help gum tissue reattach. By eliminating bacteria and creating a clean surface, root planing allows your gums to heal naturally.
This non-surgical approach is often combined with scaling and may require multiple visits depending on the extent of buildup. While it won’t reverse existing recession, it can stop the progression and prevent further damage. Regular maintenance cleanings after treatment help keep your gums healthy and reduce the risk of recession returning.
Orthodontic Correction and Bite Adjustment
Sometimes gum recession results from misaligned teeth or an improper bite that places excessive force on certain teeth. In these cases, addressing the underlying alignment issue may prevent further recession. Orthodontic treatment repositions teeth to distribute biting forces more evenly, reducing stress on your gums.
Similarly, bite adjustments can reshape the chewing surfaces of teeth to eliminate high spots that cause trauma to gum tissue. These preventive measures work best when recession is caught early and hasn’t yet caused significant tissue loss. By correcting the mechanical problem, you give your gums the best chance to remain stable and healthy over time.
Protecting Your Gums in New York
At Dental West NYC, we focus on preventive care and minimally invasive treatments whenever possible. Our advanced laser technology and commitment to conservative dentistry mean we look for ways to preserve your natural tissues while addressing gum recession effectively. We also include complimentary fluoride treatments with every cleaning to strengthen your enamel and support overall oral health.
As a fee-for-service practice, we make treatment decisions based solely on what you need, not what insurance may cover. This approach allows us to recommend the best course of action for your individual circumstances. Whether you need a non-surgical deep cleaning or a more advanced procedure, our experienced team can help restore your gum health and protect your smile for years to come. Book your consultation online to discuss your treatment options.
