Gum Recession

Gum Recession Affects Health, Comfort and Smile Esthetics

Receding Gums Create an Aging Smile

Gum recession occurs when the gum tissues pull away and slowly recede from the tooth surfaces. While gum recession in Duxbury and Osterville, MA is a common occurrence among patients, receding gums bring changes to oral health and smile esthetics, and may even cause tooth sensitivity. These changes often lead to feelings of embarrassment, discomfort when eating or drinking, and oral problems that require more complex care. Gum recession results in an uneven gum line, and leaves behind what many patients feel to be an “aging smile” as they often look older than they truly are.

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  • Dr. Faiella discusses treatment options for gum recession
gum recession graphic

The Source of Gum Recession

Gum recession can result from gum disease, teeth grinding (bruxism), malpositioned teeth, genetics, and a number of other lifestyle and parafunctional habits. Cases of gum recession range from minor to advanced, and are often indicated by a common collection of signs and symptoms.

Common Indicators of Gum Recession:

  • An uneven gum line
  • Tooth sensitivity
  • Longer-looking teeth
  • Discoloration near gum line
  • Dark triangular spacing between teeth
  • An aging smile

Why Treat Gum Recession?

A receding gum line exposes the underlying root structure of the teeth to everyday wear and tear. The roots of teeth are more delicate and susceptible to damage and decay when compared with tooth enamel. Root decay, chemical erosion and mechanical damage compromise affected teeth, and may result in the need for filings, root canal treatment and even tooth extraction, if gum recession is severe enough. Receded gums will not regrow on their own, and require the skilled expertise of a periodontal specialist to repair. Visiting board certified periodontist, Dr. Robert Faiella, at the first sign of gum recession can help prevent the condition from progressing and restore your gum line to a healthier, more attractive position on the teeth.

dr faiella discussing gum recession treatment
dr faiella performing gum recession treatment

Proven Techniques for Reversing Gum Recession

Dr. Faiella reverses the effects of gum recession with tried-and-true gum grafting techniques. Gum grafting utilizes healthy gum tissues from your own mouth or other biocompatible sources to create an even gum line. Dr. Faiella strategically attaches gum grafting tissue in areas of gum recession, which blend seamlessly with existing gum tissues when healed. The result of gum grafting leaves you with an attractive, healthier, more youthful smile.

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