Gum recession: treatment of receding gums, different types

What does receded gums or gum recession mean?

Gum receding, or gingival recession, refers to the condition where a portion of the root surface becomes exposed due to the gum tissue pulling back. This occurs when the gum recedes beyond the crown of the tooth, exposing a part of the root surface. This condition disrupts the harmony of the gum line along the dental arch.

What is the role of the gums?

In a healthy state, the gums cover the root portion of the tooth and the bone tissue of the tooth socket. The role of the gums is to protect the tissues of the periodontium (tooth socket) underneath. It can be likened to how our skin acts as a barrier against external influences, except here it pertains to the mucous membrane inside our mouths.

Consequences of receded gums

The most noticeable consequence of gum recession is its aesthetic impact. Receded gums can result in asymmetry of the gum line and an unnatural appearance.

Receding gums can cause more than just aesthetic issues; they can also increase tooth sensitivity to cold, heat, and sweet tastes.

As the gums recede, less resilient tissues are exposed and become vulnerable, thereby increasing the risk of tooth decay along the gumline. Composite dental fillings may be the solution for this type of decay. Since it's typically a slow process, many people may not notice it in time.

Types of receded gums: inflammatory and non-inflammatory gum recession

It is crucial to differentiate what causes gum recession. The most important question to consider is whether the condition has an inflammatory cause. Accordingly, there are:

• Inflammatory gum recession
• Non-inflammatory gum recession

1. Inflammatory gum recession

Inflammatory gum recession develops on the basis of periodontal disease(gum disease). Poor oral hygiene and the presence of tartar around and below the gums play a significant role in the development of the disease. In advanced stages, the structural integrity of the teeth is compromised, and the bone supporting the teeth deteriorates. In its final stage, even if we have healthy teeth, the disease can lead to tooth loss.

As a result of the deterioration, the support of the gum tissue decreases, leading to gum recession. It is important to note that in the active, untreated stage of gum disease, it typically remains hidden because the gum is inflamed, swollen, bleeding, and bulky due to active inflammation. 

Treatment of gum disease results in the cessation of inflammation and a decrease in the volume of the gum tissue. At this point, the recession of the gums becomes visible. In this case, gum recession extends into the interdental spaces, leading to the appearance of black triangles.

Is gum recession always pathological?

In light of the above, receded gums cannot always be considered pathological, as in the case of inflammatory gum recession, it can be a symptom of treated, healed gum disease, despite the fact that the tissues are already permanently damaged.

2. Non-inflammatory gum recession

The term "non-inflammatory" is crucial here because we are dealing with a condition that is not inflammatory in nature. This aesthetic issue represents a smaller fraction of periodontal problems.

Occurrence of gum recession? Who is affected?

The occurrence of gum recession depends largely on our genetic predispositions, so individuals with a thin biotype of gums tend to be more sensitive, whereas those with a thick biotype are more resistant. Female patients are affected by hormonal changes occurring during various stages of life, which can make the gum tissue more sensitive.

Causes of non-inflammatory gum recession

The primary cause of non-inflammatory gum recession is anatomical deterioration. In this case, the tooth is positioned outside the dental arch, resulting in thinner or completely absent bone tissue on the tooth's surface.

In such cases, the gums are more sensitive, and improper or overly vigorous tooth brushing techniques contribute to the development of gum recession.

Gum recession can also be caused by improper tooth contact or overloading due to bite abnormalities.

Gum recession can also occur as a result of orthodontic treatment.

Gingival plastic surgery: treatment for receded gums

Results of gingival plastic surgery: What can we expect?

During gum restoration and treatment of gum recession, we can correct the condition depending on its extent, type, and severity. The success of gum restoration largely depends on whether we are dealing with an inflammatory or non-inflammatory condition. In the former case, gingival plastic surgery usually does not succeed because the underlying bone tissue supporting the gums has deteriorated or been damaged.

On the contrary, the good news is that certain degrees of non-inflammatory gum recession can be corrected quite effectively. Among dental treatments, this correction essentially falls under one type of gingival plastic surgery. The long-term success of the procedure can be enhanced if the underlying cause is successfully addressed.

During gum recession treatment, the missing gum tissue is often replaced with tissue from other areas of the oral cavity, such as the palate. In this sense, we refer more to gum grafting rather than the regrowth of gum tissue, as regrowth practically has no reality.

To cover gum recession, we can use PRF membrane or animal-derived collagen membrane.

It is crucial to place sutures of the appropriate size, which often are much smaller than those used in oral surgery generally.

In our clinic, we not only treat conditions but also assist in mastering the proper tooth brushing technique and eliminating poorly anchored, overly forceful, and incorrect tooth brushing habits. This can help prevent or maintain a healthy state. 

Regular dental check-ups offer the opportunity to monitor results, remove accumulated tartar, and maintain proper oral hygiene.

Gingival plastic surgery prices

Gingival plastic surgery prices mostly depend on the size of the affected area. The cost of gingival plastic surgery is determined by how many teeth are affected by the condition. Detailed gingival plastic surgery prices can be found at the bottom of the page or on the dental pricelist page.

During the consultation, a treatment plan is always prepared, so you will have the opportunity to know the exact costs before the intervention.

If you'd like to address the issue of gum recession, don't hesitate, as there are solutions available. Come to us for a dental consultation so we can resolve your problem as soon as possible. Our team of periodontists is here to help. Call us at 053 930 1323 or contact us via email!

FAQ - Gum recession

Related topics:

What does periodontology mean?

Tartar removal

Guided biofilm therapy