Diagnosis and Treatment for Receding Gums

The Goal of Treatment

The first to see receding gums and any other form of periodontal disease is your dentist. The dentist makes the diagnosis for periodontal disease. When the diagnosis is made, the dentist promptly makes a referral to a periodontist.

Oral Exam

In an oral examination, your dentist examines your gums. Seeing some receding gums, a probe is used to measure the gum pockets. Normal pocket sizes range between 1 to 3 mm; if they are any deeper, a diagnosis of receding gums warrants a referral to a periodontist. 

The most appropriate course of treatment will be discussed with you. If the gums are infected, a course of antibiotics will be prescribed. Sometimes, other medications can be used by themselves or as an adjunct to the prescribed antibiotics. They include, topical antibiotic gel, antimicrobial mouthwash, antiseptic strips, and enzyme suppressants. 

Surgery is another treatment option for receding gums, but indicated in the most severe of cases. There are two: flap surgery and grafting. 

Flap Surgery

This involves deep tissue cleaning to remove all tartar and bacteria build-up in the gum tissue. This is performed after the periodontist has lifted away the gums and then sutures them back in place. The gums should fit more closely around the teeth.

Grafting

This involves opening up the gum tissue until the bone is reached. A synthetic particle or a piece of bone or tissue is placed inside to encourage the bone and gums to grow back. 

Both procedures rely much on your practise of good oral hygiene so that the condition of receding gums do not recur. 

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Seeking Treatment for Receding Gums in Lynnwood

When you think you have receding gums, let’s talk about treatment. Come see us at Lynnwood Song Dental and know more about periodontal disease.