Receding Gums

People commonly seek help from cosmetic dentists for receding gums. Exposed tooth roots not only look unattractive to most people, they also are very sensitive. But people may not have known that receded gums are usually the result of periodontal disease. If Dr. Haeri determines that is the case, there are some interventions she may recommend which vary in intensity depending on the severity of the gum loss.

Teeth are surrounded by gum pockets which are supposed to secure them snugly. But there is always room for some bacteria and plaque in the space between the gum and the tooth root, and if healthy tissues are being eroded by acid, that space will only get larger. More plaque-causing bacteria fill the void, accelerating the decay process.

At a normal deep cleaning, Dr. Haeri or a hygienist will remove the bacteria colonies, but the problem remains of what to do with the enlarged pocket and exposed roots. Sometimes a simple incision can be made into healthy gum tissue, which is then folded and sutured to cover the roots. This can be done under local anesthetic. Serious cases might require the consultation of a specialist in gum grafts. There is no shortage of strategies for fixing receded gums, but patients should maintain regular oral hygiene to improve their chances of avoiding the trouble.

The practice of Suzanne Haeri, DDS, is located at 1100 S. La Cienega Blvd., Los Angeles, California, 90035. To set up an appointment, call 310-647-2200 or visit SuzanneHaeriDDS.com and fill out a request.