Gum recession occurs when the gums are pushed back or wear away, exposing the pink tissue that covers the roots of one or more teeth. These exposed roots can lead to an increased risk of tooth infection, decay or loss.
The most common cause of gum recession is periodontal disease caused by poor oral hygiene. However, even people with good oral hygiene can experience gum recession due to inflammation or inherited factors, such as crooked, crowded or misaligned teeth or thin gums.
Wear and tear on the gums due to aging, brushing too hard or brushing with a stiff-bristled toothbrush is another common cause. Tobacco use, hormonal fluctuations and damage caused by body piercings can also contribute.
Inherited risk factors and aging cannot be avoided. However, there are steps people can take to reduce the risk of gum recession:
Mild gum recession may not require treatment and can often be reversed with proper oral hygiene. In cases where the recession has caused gaps between teeth or exposed roots, composite fillings may be used to close the gaps or cover exposed roots.
Composite fillings are made from a polymer resin that contains plastic particles. These fillings have traditionally been used as a cosmetic alternative to amalgam fillings but can also be used to repair damaged or decayed teeth, close tooth gaps and cover exposed roots.
The dentist begins the process by selecting a shade of resin that closely matches the natural shade of the patient's teeth. The dentist then roughens the surface of the tooth and applies a conditioning liquid. The resin is molded and smoothed to the desired shape, and a special light is used to harden the material.
Once hardened, the material is trimmed, shaped and polished to achieve the desired appearance. The whole process usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes per tooth.
Composite restoration is one of the least invasive methods of treating gum recession. It is also one of the most aesthetically pleasing because the resin can closely match the natural appearance of the teeth.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Composite Fillings in Agoura Hills, CA.
Gum recession can damage the appearance of the smile and lead to painfully sensitive teeth, exposed roots and an increased risk for tooth decay and loss. Composite fillings can be used to improve the appearance of the smile and reduce risk factors caused by gum recession.
Request an appointment or call The Smile Spa at 818-573-2196 for an appointment in our Agoura Hills office.
Anyone familiar with oral hygiene basics knows that dentists recommend brushing twice a day: once in the morning and once at night. However, you may not know why this is so. Why is once not enough? After all, experts recommend flossing only once a day. How is brushing your teeth different?Brushing your teeth is a…
Tooth extraction can be an intimidating prospect, but when recommended, it is a necessary step for maintaining good oral health. This routine procedure removes a severely decayed, damaged, or crowded tooth, alleviating pain and discomfort. Understanding the extraction process and how to recover effectively afterward can make the whole experience much smoother.A general dentist will…
Though brushing your teeth is one of the most important oral hygiene basics, flossing is just as vital. Here is how flossing can strengthen your teeth and benefit your overall health.Flossing is an essential part of your oral care routine because it removes plaque from your teeth. Plaque is a soft, sticky substance that bacteria…
Anyone familiar with oral hygiene basics knows that dentists recommend brushing twice a day: once…
Tooth extraction can be an intimidating prospect, but when recommended, it is a necessary step…
Though brushing your teeth is one of the most important oral hygiene basics, flossing is…
Teeth brushing is one of the most important oral hygiene basics, as it removes plaque…
All-on-4® implants are indispensable solutions to deteriorating teeth. Part of losing teeth is looking for…
Most adults believe they have a good understanding of oral hygiene basics but may not…
