Gum Recession in Austin, TX

Signs You Might Need Gum Recession Treatment

Not sure if you’re experiencing a gum recession? Here are some telltale signs:

• Tooth sensitivity, especially to hot or cold foods.
• Visible gaps between your teeth and gums.
• Teeth that appear longer than usual.
• Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing.

If any of these sound familiar, it might be time to look into gum recession treatment in Austin, TX.

The Causes of Gum Recession

Several factors can contribute to gum recession, including:

• Poor Oral Hygiene: Not brushing or flossing properly can lead to plaque buildup, which irritates the gums and leads to recession.
• Genetics: Some people are more genetically predisposed to gum recession.
• Gum Disease: Conditions like gingivitis or periodontitis can weaken and damage gum tissue.
• Bruxism (teeth grinding): Grinding your teeth puts unnecessary pressure on your gums and teeth.
• Aggressive Brushing: Brushing too hard can cause gum tissue to recede over time.

Gum Recession Treatment in Austin, TX: Your Options

At Council Oak Perio, we offer several advanced treatments to help restore your gums and protect your oral health. The right treatment for you depends on the severity of your gum recession, your overall oral health, and your personal preferences.

Non-Surgical Gum Recession Treatments

For early-stage gum recession, non-surgical options can be highly effective:

• Scaling and Root Planing: A thorough cleaning process designed to eliminate plaque and tartar buildup beneath the gum line, helping to reduce inflammation and support gum healing.
• Antibiotic Therapy: Medications can help treat gum infections and reduce inflammation.

Surgical Gum Recession Treatments

If your gum recession is more severe, surgical treatments may be necessary:

• Gum Grafting: This involves taking gum tissue from another part of your mouth (or using donor tissue) to cover exposed tooth roots.
• Pinhole Surgical Technique (PST): A minimally invasive option that uses a small hole to reposition and tighten the gums over receded areas.

Laser Gum Recession Treatment

Laser therapy is a gentle, highly precise way to treat recession. It stimulates gum regeneration and removes damaged tissue without the need for stitches or scalpels—a great option for patients nervous about traditional surgery (and yes, sedation dentistry is always available if needed for your comfort).

The Benefits of Gum Recession Treatment

Choosing to undergo gum recession treatment can help you in several ways:

• Improved appearance: You’ll feel more confident about your smile.
• Reduced tooth sensitivity: Protect your teeth from hot, cold, or sweet sensations.
• Better oral health: Prevent further decay and reduce the risk of gum disease.

What to Expect During Your Treatment

At Council Oak Perio, we make sure you’re comfortable throughout the entire process. For non-surgical treatments, you can expect a quick recovery with minimal discomfort. If you undergo a surgical procedure like gum grafting, you may experience some swelling and soreness, but these symptoms typically subside within a few days.

How to Care for Your Gums After Treatment

Once your gum recession treatment is complete, taking care of your gums is essential:

• Brush gently using a soft-bristled toothbrush.
• Avoid smoking, as it can slow healing.
• Follow your dentist’s instructions on post-treatment care, including using any prescribed mouth rinses or medications.
• Attend follow-up appointments to ensure your gums are healing correctly.

Also, if recommended, additional procedures like soft tissue treatment or crown lengthening may be performed in conjunction with your gum recession therapy to enhance your results or prepare for restorative dental work.