The trouble with receding gums; how our specialists restore gum health to preserve your smile

Periodontal tissues (gums) surround, protect, and “frame” our teeth. Healthy gums look reddish-pink. They are firm and do not bleed when you brush or floss. When conditions like periodontal disease damage gums, they appear darker than your “normal.” They may be swollen and painful to the touch. Blood may be noticeable on brush bristles or floss. With the march of time and the progression of disease, the gums can pull away from the teeth. 

The office of Peter O. Cabrera, DDS Bahareh Sabzehei DDS, MS Periodontics & Dental Implants reverse the effects of gum disease when the condition is detected sufficiently early into the disease process, and when it is resolved with appropriate treatment options. Additionally, as specialists in periodontics, our doctors understand the many factors that can lead to gum recession. They account for everything from each patient’s unique anatomy, as well as the presence and nature of infection and the thickness of tissues and bone. 

 Following an evaluation, we may find that patients with gum recession can benefit from soft tissue reconstruction or gum grafting. Tissues may be taken from the palate of the mouth or nearby areas to build up firm tissue around the tooth. The graft may also be used to protect a tooth with root exposure that is vulnerable to decay. 

Our specialists are also well-versed in micro-surgical treatments such as the Chao® Pinhole Surgical Technique. Recessed or damaged gums may be treated without grafting, cutting, and the need for sutures. PST involves accessing, loosening, repositioning, and sliding tissue through a minuscule hole that is about the size of a pin. This approach involves adjusting the position of the tissue. So, the repositioned tissue then augments a recessed area and covers up exposed tooth roots, which are associated with heightened tooth sensitivity. Root exposure is also associated with an increased risk of developing infection. Restorative treatment would then be necessary to prevent the loss of the tooth. 

PST further promotes fast healing and the regeneration of deteriorated or lost tissues. It is generally tolerated well by patients.  Although this technique is not suitable for every recession case. 

As periodontists, we are well-equipped to also alter the gumline to achieve a more cosmetic result; for instance, tissue may be augmented (or, likewise, reduced) to resolve smiles with the opposite problem: “gummy” smiles. Designing an eye-catching smile is all about balance and proportionality. And, often, a healthy mouth supports an attractive smile, as conditions like gum disease can adversely affect the appearance of the gums and teeth. 

Gum disease occurs in stages. Gum disease effects can be reversed when detected and effectively treated in its earlier stages. So, we can retain or restore the health, comfort, function, and aesthetics of your mouth.

We encourage you to seek the expertise of the specialists at the office of Peter O. Cabrera, DDS Bahareh Sabzehei DDS, MS Periodontics & Dental Implants promptly. Call (312) 736-7959 or request an appointment from this website.