Gum recession is a dental issue that can occur naturally with time, or as a result of periodontal disease. Symptoms might include toothache pain, loose teeth, and the appearance that your teeth are longer as the gum tissue literally shrinks away. This leads to a cosmetically displeasing frame for what should be your beautiful, impression-making smile. Schaumburg cosmetic dentist, Dr. Brent Engelberg, discusses two of the main reasons for gum recession.
Delicate Gum Tissue
Gum recession is most visible in the front teeth that you see when you smile, but can occur on any of your teeth, including the inner or outer sides. Prevention is the best method for battling gum recession. However, some people are pre-disposed to gum recession due to fragile, thin gingival tissue. In cases like these, there may be nothing you can do to halt gum recession completely. However, regular dental visits will allow your dentist to get to know your mouth, helping them identify problems early so that treatment will be more efficient and less invasive.
Bacterial Infection of the Gums
For many people, gum recession can be easily prevented through good oral hygiene and visiting the dentist once every six months. Gum disease is a bacterial infection that unfortunately doesn’t show a plethora of obvious symptoms. As much as 80% of the American population has some level of periodontal disease, which can transition into the severe state of periodontitis over time. When ignored, gum disease can cause gum recession, as well as the destruction of the underlying jawbone which supports teeth. If you notice that you have puffy gums, or you see blood when you brush your teeth or floss, make an immediate appointment with Dr. Engelberg. Cleaning teeth of built-up plaque and tartar, as well as adhering to strict brushing and flossing, can stop gum disease from progressing and leading to recession.
Visit your Schaumburg Cosmetic Dentist
You can reach our 60159 dentist office at 847-259-8030. We are happy to serve patients in Northbrook, Deerfield, Highland Park, Wilmette, Winnetka, Glencoe, Vernon Hills, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Skokie, Evanston, Palatine, Schaumburg, Elk Grove Village, Rolling Meadows, Northwest Chicago Suburbs, and Northern Chicago Suburbs.
