Best Treatments for Receding Gums and Sensitive Teeth

Do you see your teeth growing longer than normal? Or experienced a sting when drinking cold beverages? These are all typical symptoms of receding gums – and you’re not alone.

Most people don’t take it seriously until the damage is much more difficult to rectify. However, the positive is that you can prevent it from getting worse with proper care.

Receding Gums: What Are They?

Receding gums are a condition where the gums have withdrawn from the teeth, leaving the bottom part of the tooth visible. It’s a gradual process, and most people don’t catch the beginning.

Symptoms may include:

Sensitivity of teeth to hot, cold, or sweets.
Exposed roots of teeth (base) that can be seen in the mouth
Gum pain, or pain around the gum line.
Pain when brushing or flossing

Why Do Gums Recede?

Gum recession can occur due to a number of factors:

Brushing too hard or with a stiff-bristle brush.
Gum disease caused by plaque/tartar
There is a relationship between gum disease and bacterial infections.
Not smoking or using chewing tobacco
Genetics – for some, the gum tissue is naturally thin
Misaligned teeth or some orthodontics will also affect the alignment of your teeth.

Wondering if your daily habits are to blame? View our oral hygiene guide to find some easy and effective tips.

Non-Surgical Treatments

In some cases, surgery is not advised.

Scaling and Root Planing is a deep cleaning that is done to get rid of bacteria and tartar under the gum line. It’s often the initial treatment for gum recession from gum disease.

Topical Antibiotics can be applied directly under the gums to combat an infection. Antimicrobial mouth rinses also help to lessen swelling.

For mild cases, Dental Bonding can be used to cover exposed root surfaces using a tooth-colored resin, which improves comfort and appearance.

Sensivity Toothpaste eases sensitivity every day. Check for:

Potassium nitrate
Stannous fluoride
Arginine

Smoothes down the nerves within the teeth over time. Compare sensitivity treatment options to see what works best for you.

Surgical Options

If the gum recession is more pronounced, then surgery might be a viable treatment option:

Connective Tissue Grafts: Tissue from the roof of your mouth is stitched over the exposed root. The most popular and successful grafting technique.
Free Gingival Grafts – Tissue is harvested from the palate, perfect for those with naturally thin gums.
Pedicle Grafts – The adjacent gum tissue is moved to the area of recession. If there is healthy tissue nearby, it is best.

They are all performed under local anaesthetic, and recovery is simple.

Home Care Tips for Sensitive Teeth

These activities can have a significant impact on regular dental check-ups:

Brush with a soft-bristle toothbrush in gentle, circular motions
Drinks such as fruit juices and carbonated beverages erode enamel.
Use a toothpaste specially formulated for sensitive teeth.
Rinse with mouthwash that is alcohol free.

Discuss with your dentist the benefits of fluoride varnish during routine check-ups.

A custom night guard can help if you clench or grind your teeth while you sleep, as it will help to prevent damage to your gum tissue. Learn about night guards and bruxism treatment.

The Bottom Line

Receding gums will not grow back without treatment. However, early treatment will stop further loss and preserve your smile. The faster you act, the easier the solution is.

Make sure to visit Dental Peace today and get an accurate assessment from our experienced staff.

Location:

C2/252, Kundapura, C-2 Block, Janakpuri, New Delhi, Delhi, 110058

F-14 (LGF), Kailash Colony, Block K, Greater Kailash, New Delhi, Delhi 110048