Gum Retraction
Gum retraction is a dental procedure that involves pulling back the gums to expose more of the tooth structure. The procedure is typically performed by a dental hygienist or dentist and is used to prepare the teeth for certain dental treatments, such as tooth whitening or tooth bonding.
Gum retraction is typically performed using a dental retractor, which is a specialized tool that is inserted between the gums and the teeth to gently pull the gums away from the teeth. The dental retractor may be used in combination with a local anesthetic to minimize any discomfort during the procedure.
After the gums have been retracted, the dentist may take impressions of the teeth to create custom trays for tooth whitening or to prepare the teeth for bonding. The gums are then allowed to return to their normal position, and the teeth are cleaned and polished.
Gum retraction is a safe and effective dental procedure that can help to prepare the teeth for certain treatments, such as tooth whitening or bonding. It is typically performed by a trained and experienced dental professional, and any discomfort during the procedure can be minimized with the use of a local anesthetic.
What are the Symptoms of Gum Recession?
Gum recession is a condition in which the gums pull away from the teeth, exposing more of the tooth structure. Gum recession can lead to tooth sensitivity and increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
The symptoms of gum recession can include:
- Sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks
- Tooth sensitivity to pressure or touch
- A tooth that appears longer than surrounding teeth
- Gums that appear to be receding or pulling away from the teeth
- Exposed tooth roots
- A change in the fit of dentures or other dental appliances
- A change in the bite
- A change in the appearance of the gums
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see a dentist for an evaluation. The dentist can diagnose the cause of the gum recession and recommend appropriate treatment to restore the gums and protect the teeth.
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How is the diagnosis made?
Gum recession is typically diagnosed by a dentist during a routine dental examination. The dentist will carefully examine the gums and teeth to look for signs of gum recession, such as sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks, tooth sensitivity to pressure or touch, and exposed tooth roots.
The dentist may also use a periodontal probe, which is a small, pointed instrument, to measure the depth of the gum pockets around the teeth. Healthy gums should fit snugly around the teeth, with the gum pockets measuring between 1 and 3 millimeters in depth. If the gum pockets are deeper than 3 millimeters, it may be a sign of gum recession.
Additionally, the dentist may take X-rays of the teeth to look for signs of bone loss, which can occur as a result of gum recession. The X-rays can also help the dentist identify the underlying cause of the gum recession, such as gum disease or tooth decay.
How Is Gum Recession Treated?
Gum recession is typically treated by a dentist or periodontist. The type of treatment recommended will depend on the underlying cause of the gum recession, as well as the severity of the condition.
Some common treatments for gum recession include:
- Scaling and root planing: This is a deep cleaning procedure that is used to remove plaque, calculus, and bacteria from the teeth and gums. The procedure involves using specialized tools to clean and smooth the roots of the teeth, and can help to reverse the effects of gum disease and promote the growth of healthy gum tissue.
- Gum grafting: This is a surgical procedure that is used to restore lost gum tissue. The procedure involves taking a small piece of gum tissue from another part of the mouth and attaching it to the area of gum recession. The grafted tissue can help to cover exposed tooth roots and protect the teeth from further damage.
- Soft tissue laser therapy: This is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a laser to remove infected gum tissue and promote the growth of healthy gum tissue. The laser can help to kill bacteria and remove damaged tissue, and can promote the growth of healthy gum tissue in the treated area.