Gum Recession

Frequently Asked Questions

1. QUESTION:
   Gum Recession?
   I have been diagnosed with gum recession. The dentist said I need to have gum from my palate removed and stiched below the teeth where recession is occurring. Does anyone know how much this procedure costs? Is the cost based per tooth, per surgical session,etc.? Does it hurt? Any info will be so helpful!

   • ANSWER:
     Hi,

     Yes, you are right. You do need this “grafting” procedure done if there is significant amount of gingival recession.

     The tissue section is taken from the palate and sutured to the place where the gum recession has occurred.

     1. I don’t know which state you live in. While the fees vary from practice to practice, you can get some idea from the following website :

     http://www.dentalbenefitsplus.com/FeeSchedule/feeschedule.asp

     (Look under “Periodontics”…. “Free soft tissue graft”….Code D4271….”Reg. Price”)

     i) I would add at least another 0 – 0 to that because from my experience I can tell you that the fees always have a range. It can be higher or lower, but it is always wise to have excess than less amount of money available. This still this will just give you a ballpark figure.

     ii) Also, you cannot guarantee that fees cited on this site are current; i.e., accurate.

     iii) This seems like a web site for insurance benefits. These companies always set lower fee schedule than the market price to make an excuse to provide less coverage.

     iv) Don’t overlook the disclaimer at the bottom of the table which reads :

     “** Charges are for comparison only, based on 2007 averages. Your prices and savings may vary.”

     2. The cost is usually based on the number of tissue sections (grafts) that need to be used. Therefore, it will be considered one procedure if you have two teeth involved, but one tissue graft can cover both areas. On the other hand, you will get billed for two procedures if you have two teeth involved in two different areas requiring two tissue grafts.

     3. The procedure is done under local anesthesia only. You should not feel any pain during the procedure. However, there will be pain afterwards. Chewing will be difficult for the first couple of days

     a) For that the periodontist will prescribe pain medication.

     b) If needed, the periodontist will also prescribe antibiotics. The conditions that usually require prescription for antibiotics are Diabetes Mellitus, any immunosuppressive conditions due to AIDS or immunosuppressive medications after organ transplants….I am just giving you the facts. I am not implying you have these conditions. You can help educate other people if you have this info.

     c) The periodontists usually prefer to protect the area with a pack called the “Periodontal Pack”. It is like a pink play dough that they prepare and place in the area.

     d) Make sure that stays in for a few days. At least for 2 days.

     e) Don’t disturb the area. You can brush the rest of the teeth normally, but be gentle in that specific segment of your mouth.

     f) DO NOT use Listerine. That has alcohol in it. That will burn the raw wound.

     g) Use luke warm salt water instead. Make sure the water is not too hot. That will result in dilatation of the blood vessels and bleeding. On the other hand, luke warm water will increase blood flow to the area (without causing bleeding) and expedite the healing process….and salt kills the germs.

     h) However, DO NOT use too much salt either. That will be caustic and will erode the tissue. In one glass of luke warm water add only one pinch of salt.

     i) Also, for future reference ask the periodontist why he thinks you suffered the gum recession in the first place. So, that you can avoid getting into trouble….doesn’t hurt to be able to save money !!!

     Hope this helped. Good luck !

2. QUESTION:
   Gum recession?
   My gums have been receeding and I’m wondering what I can do to stop the recession. I haven’t been brushing as vigorously as I did before I noticed the recession. Should I use listerine? Or will this just make it work? I don’t have insurance so I need some home remedies to stop it.
   I’m 17 years old

   • ANSWER:
     Get a soft tooth brush and BE GENTLE! Remember plaque is soft and you dont have to SCRUB! Easy does it and floss floss floss! You wont ever be able to make your gums come back down, unless you have surgery, so you need to use some flouride rinse. I suggest ACT. The flouride will help strengthen the surface of the tooth that was exposed when the gums receded.

3. QUESTION:
   gum recession?
   can you stop gum recession with normal brushing flossing and mouth wash?

   • ANSWER:
     You also need to see your dental hygienist regularly to clean the “pockets” of bacteria that may cause gum disease and thus recession. With that you should be able to stop and maintain the recession.
     Also make sure you don not brush hard! if you find your brush bristle splaying by the end of the month its too hard!
     get a soft brush and use your opposite hand for brushing, it is hard to brush hard with the other hand!

4. QUESTION:
   How common is gum recession with a lip piercing?
   I want to get a lip piercing very badly, but my parents are saying no because they read it causes awful gum recession. I need to know how common the chances are of gum recession. Also are there any studs/rings that have backs to them that won’t rub on the gums as much?

   • ANSWER:
     I’ve had a lip piercing since I was 16 and am now 21. I’ve noticed no gum recession. In fact, my lip ring doesn’t touch my gum, just my tooth. I just tried, I have to squash my lip down for the ring to touch the gum.

     I have full lips, but not that big.

5. QUESTION:
   How can I minimize gum recession and teeth erosion with a labret?
   I just had my lip pierced and I was reading a lot of stories about gum recession and teeth erosion caused by the jewelery. I was wondering how can I avoid this or at least minimize it. Thank you.
   I just took it out. Thank you very much for your replies. I think I will just get more tattoos done :p

   • ANSWER:
     I’ve had my lip pierced twice and I’ve had my tongue pierced. As someone with extensive piercing and extensive dental work, I advise you to just not get it done.

     At the time I got my lip pierced, I had braces, and so there wasn’t really a problem. Anywhere you get your labret done is going to come in contact with your teeth and / or gums, and because the metal / plastic of the jewelry is not as soft as your lip, you are going to cause some irritation. The extent really varies, depending on how you eat, talk, etc.

     When I got my tongue done, I’d had my braces removed and had the bar behind my teeth from a permanent retainer, and it remained there until a car accident knocked the retainer out. With the removal of the braces and the loss of the permanent retainer, there was nothing protecting my teeth and gums from the jewelry.

     So what happened? The gum around the base of a bridge was irritated to the point that it slightly receded, revealing the root surface of the tooth, and I am now considering pulling the whole apparatus and having a bridge implanted, at the cost of 00-00 if I’m lucky.

     I also heard from one of my professors last year that the metal can cause a reaction in your mouth that will erode your teeth over time (through your saliva), without even coming into contact with them.

     Please do not get this done. I know it can seem attractive, but don’t. These piercings are becoming increasingly more popular, and although I got mine done before the trend got started and everybody jumped on the bandwagon, I can see the allure. Your teeth are too essential to your health to risk them. Get a tattoo, get your eyebrow pierced, get your nipple pierced, anything but something in your mouth.

     I don’t want you to think I’m some uptight person telling you not to deface yourself; I’ve had more than 30 piercings and I’ve got some tattoos. I’ve been known to have purple hair. But, from personal experience, the decoration is NOT worth it.

6. QUESTION:
   How much does grafting cost? Should it be done in children who have gum recession b/c of braces?
   I have braces but i dont know if grafting is appropriate for people my age. I have gum recession due to my braces. How much does it cost?

   • ANSWER:
     I don’t know about the cost but I work for an orthodontist and we refer young patients for grafts all of the time. Just ask your orthodontist or dentist if they think it is something you should have done!

7. QUESTION:
   Can the gum come back after gum recession?
   I have gum recession after brace, a small triangle between incisor teeth, and few more small triangle. Can the gum come back after a while?
   Should I rebrace and grind two teeth parallel, tooth filling, crown, or remove gum from roof of the mouth?

   • ANSWER:
     unfortunately no.

8. QUESTION:
   Does a slightly rounded lip ring back stop gum recession?
   I just got my top lip done on March 17th. Recently i have noticed that a gum recession had begun. It was only after i changed the bar that i noticed. The bar it was done with was just slightly rounded. When i first changed it it was a completely flat back. I changed it back to a lightly rounded one. Will this help or will my gum recession continue or will it stop now?

   • ANSWER:
     your gum recession will continue for as long as you have a foreign body in your mouth

9. QUESTION:
   Why does smokeless tobacco cause gum recession?
   I would assume that it is from the abrasiveness of it and not the chemicals. My reasoning is this; I know that some oral jewelry causes gum recession because it rubs a lot, and I don’t think it is the chemicals because “swedish snus” has hardly any of the harmful chemicals that normal tobacco has. What do ya think?

   • ANSWER:
     Tobacco is a vasoconstrictor. In other words, it narrows blood vessels and therefore decreases blood flow. Healthy tissue needs a good blood supply. Without adequate circulation, tissue starts to be affected. This is also the reason smokers have more wrinkled skin.

10. QUESTION:
    Is Gum Recession An Unavoidable Part Of A Labret Piercing?
    I’ve been wanting to get my labret pierced for many years. However the only thing that is holding me back is all the talk about gum recession. I care for my dental health greatly. Is it possible to have a labret piercing without experiencing any gum recession?

    • ANSWER:
      yes

11. QUESTION:
    What is gum recession and periodontal pockets?
    I’ve read about it but do the gums recede between your teeth or do they recede above and below the teeth. Same thing with the the pockets. Where are they and how do I know if I have them. I was at the dentist a month ago, and he said my gums were inflamed but he would have told me if I had recession or pockets around my teeth right?

    • ANSWER:
      My mother is a dental assistant first off…but gum recession can some from actually brushing your teeth too hard or not flossing enough. The gum line recedes away from the tooth/teeth and sags which forms the periodontal pockets that you’re talking about which can lead to periodontal disease. You would know if you had them because the dentist would surely tell you. He would also mention to you about the recession of your gums.

12. QUESTION:
    Is there any way to reverse gum recession?
    If I have had problems with gum recession and I’ve taken the appropriate steps to stop it, will my gums ever heal and/or regenerate?

    • ANSWER:
      receding gums is serious, the best thing to do is to get to the dentist as soon as possible to avoid teeth to be falling out. you need to have a good program of oral hygiene every after meal.

      foods particles that is left and usually clings to the teeth are the source of bacteria to cause receding gums. it is a must to floss and brush teeth after meal to remove plaque and tartar. practice oral care would also be a great help like proper brushing and careful flossing.

      use an all natural oral care product as a part of good oral hygiene to fight the cause of gum infections. visit http://www.oramd.co.uk for more bad breath care tips.

13. QUESTION:
    Can I reverse gum recession by better flossing?
    My periodontist recommends that I get gum surgery (free soft tissue graft) to help repair some deep pockets (5mm) and severe gum recession. Although I have been flossing, I certainly could have been more regular and diligent with it. Does anyone know if gum recession can be reversed with better flossing?
    Thanks

    • ANSWER:
      Gum recession is caused by 2 things.
      1-aggresive brushing side to side with a harder tooth brush.
      Make sure you buy a power brush with soft bristles. Run it under hot water if you must to get it soft. Over lap the bristles on the gums inside and out to brush teeth well.

      2-Gum disease.
      Floss, use power brush, get surgery-get root planing.

      The gums will NOT grow back-sorry.

14. QUESTION:
    Does using an electric toothbrush (instead of a regular brush) actually help prevent gum recession?
    I just started using the Sonicare toothbrush and wanted to know the effects it has on gum recession. Does it prevent it or does it cause more of it? Any input would be helpful. Thanks!

    • ANSWER:
      I am a complete believer and supporter of SoniCare. I recommend them to my patient’s. Flossing is crucial to help prevent gum recession. When flossing you are going just beneath the gingival tissues a bit where most ( not even electric brushes can go ). To your answer…it does aid in doing a better job of cleaning around the gumline, but flossing is just as important and should be a regular part of your home care.
      Remember, you should also see your hygienist and dentist every 6 months for routine cleanings and exams. There could be things going on that you can’t always see.

15. QUESTION:
    Have you had gum recession from debridement treatment?
    I am having debridement done to treat my gingivitis through a periodontist. He says there’ll be some gum recession/shrinkage in the area’s where he will do the treatment. I’m freaking out.

    Has anyone had this done and was the recession obvious? I don’t want to look ‘long in the tooth’!

    • ANSWER:
      The recession has actually already happened, but your gums are swollen from the infection. Shrinkage is a better term…as your gums heal they will lose the puffyness they have now and return to a healthy state. This beats the alternative of bone loss eventually leading to tooth loss.

      It can be obvious based on the amount of swelling you have…but showing a little root is better than having no teeth.

16. QUESTION:
    How to prevent gum recession?
    I was at the dentist recently and they told me I have pretty serious gum recession because I’ve been brushing too hard. So now, I brush much lighter, but I feel like my teeth aren’t getting clean enough. So what are some good ways to avoid gum recession and still keep my teeth clean?
    I use listerine mouthwash twice a day also, and floss every couple days.

    • ANSWER:
      To help Gum recession or usually known as Periodontal disease, you want to make sure you brush your teeth after every meal if possible, just do medium-hard circles with your tooth brush when you brush. Also you want to make sure you floss as much as possible this will help your oral health greatly! hope this helps!

17. QUESTION:
    Is Gum Recession always periodontal disease?
    Is gum Recession always caused by periodontal disease, or could it be caused by something else? If it isnt periodontal disease, what could be causing it?

    Could it be excessive flossing? If I stopped flossing, would the gum recession stop, or would it continue regardless of that?
    If it is this MGD problem, would a periodontist/dentist refer me to someone else, or would I need to seek out a specialist myself?

    • ANSWER:
      No it’s not always caused by periodontal disease. It could be caused by too aggressive brushing, or by using a toothbrush with too hard bristles. If it is one spot in particular that seems to be receding, it may be a mucogingival defect (MGD), caused by too much pull of adjacent tissues.
      Try to find a toothbrush with extra/ultra soft bristles, or one for sensitivity. Be sure to gently brush with more of a massaging motion as opposed to a scrubbing motion. If it is a MGD, there are surgical procedures available to help repair and stop the damage.

18. QUESTION:
    Preventing further gum recession from a piercing?
    If I changed from the 14g labret stud to a 16g designated “monroe” stud, would it prevent further recession on my gums?
    I’ve had it for two years with minimal damage, but I just barely noticed and it’s driving me crazy.

    Would the stud be shorter in this case?
    I’m using a standard bioplast labret bar.

    • ANSWER:
      If you go back to your piercer and tell them whats happening they should be able to recommend different jewlerry to help prevent further recession. I can’t remember without looking it up but there is a certain type of jewlerry that doesn’t rub on your gums because of the design. You could always wear a CBR in it aswell.

      If it gets worse I would suggest taking the bar out and letting it heal.

19. QUESTION:
    What toothpaste can help reverse gum recession?
    the dentist said there’s a tad notch on my gumline that shows recession. what toothpaste or mouth rinse can i use to reverse this? he said that it is barely noticeable and there’s a chance that it could go away.

    • ANSWER:
      I honestly dont know. But i just needed to say that your comment Kaitlyn is the most stupid thing i have ever read.. “it’s a type made by crest it’s on a commercial.” why did you even post it. Thats like asking someone where something is and receiving an answer its blue and by a tree..

20. QUESTION:
    is there any natutural remedy for gum recession?
    I have gum recession and i did scaling and I took antibiotics. Is there anything I can do except keeping the teeth clean and flox them? is there any cream or something I can use for helping my gums become normal again?

    • ANSWER:
      I won’t repeat the advice given here because it is good. I do want to say you are probably brushing your teeth incorrectly. Do not brush up on your upper teeth, only downward. On your bottom teeth do not brush down, only up.
      lc

21. QUESTION:
    Do side lip piercings cause gum recession?
    do side lip piercings cause gum recession? and what kind of jewelery should i use to lower the chance of it?

    • ANSWER:
      It depends on your mouth and the placement of the piercing. When you move your mouth, does the piercing touch your gums at all? If so, then you have your answer. Mine didn’t touch my gumline and I was fine. However, if you tend to play with things, you may find that you play with your piercing enough to have it hit against your teeth which can crack them.

22. QUESTION:
    Is gum recession normal after getting a crown?
    My dentist bruised my gum above my front tooth – it was almost black, definately inflamed and still hurts. Its been 3 days now and it still hasn’t grown over the crown- and makes me look like I have different sized teeth. Will my gums come back, or did he ruin it?

    • ANSWER:
      I don’t understand what is happening to your gum or why it should be happening. My suggestion would be to get back to the dentist who did the crown and let him give you an explanation and prognosis. Good luck.

23. QUESTION:
    Has anyone tried calcium therapy for gum recession?
    I dont have gum disease. However, my gum is receding. Calcium therapy claims to reverse such condition. Before purchasing these products, i would like to know if somebody has tried them already.

    • ANSWER:
      I have never heard of this so I am assuming that you will be taking the calcium internally. If that’s the case, I would ask how much calcium you will be taking. I think I read that your body can only absorb so much calcium in the course of the day, so anything past that amount would not be beneficial anyway. You may want to do some research regarding that.

      Also an overload of calcium can cause other problems. I know at some point, there were studies that linked kidney stones with calcium build up.

      So, bottom line — I would do a little research first and maybe talk to your MD and get his or her opinion.

      I am starting to have problems with receding gums also so your question attracted my attention. The red flag came up because of some things I have read in the past.

      Good luck!

24. QUESTION:
    Can i recover from gum recession?
    I have gum recession from over brushing. Will my gum grow back? Thanks.

    • ANSWER:
      No, your gums cannot grow back. Make sure to brush your teeth with a soft bristle toothbrush and don’t brush your gums too hard.

25. QUESTION:
    Gum recession from brushing teeth too hard?
    At my last dentist appointment, the dentist told me that I have some minor gum recession and enamel wear from brushing my teeth too hard. I’ve been trying really hard to brush very gently and all, but the gum recession doesn’t seem to be getting any better. Anyone else have this problem, and was there anything you did that helped?
    I’ve been using a very soft brush, I only brush twice a day, and I’ve been brushing very gently…

    • ANSWER:
      You should consider buying a powered toothbrush! It applies the right amount of force needed. Alos, your gum tissue will not grow back, if that’s what you mean by saying it “doesn’t seem to be getting better”.

26. QUESTION:
    Is a (non-surface) cheek/dimple piercing a bad idea if you have a problem with gum recession?
    I have had two gingival grafts in the past year and have been warned about some ‘problem areas’.

    What is the likelihood of the piercing causing further recession?
    I had a labret piercing three years ago and never had a problem.

    • ANSWER:
      I don’t know about cheek piercings, but other piercings in or around the mouth can definitely cause gums to recede. My orthodontist highly recommended that I take my tongue piercing of two years out because he could see my gumline starting to fade.
      I think it really depends on the location. I have two lip piercings and they don’t rub my gums because they are up high, situated right below my lip line. I would ask a few piercers and see what they have to say.

27. QUESTION:
    How long can I have my lip piercing in for without causing gum recession?
    I just got my lip pierced and it doesn’t hurt.
    The back of the stud does not touch my gum or teeth (barely).
    Would it be safe for me to keep it in for about 4 months without any kind of damage?
    and also, is the metal stud harmful to your body?

    • ANSWER:
      I’ve had my lip pierced for about 2 years now and have had no gum problems and I go to the dentist 2x a year. I owe it to the fact that I have a bio-plast post that is meant to be lighter and less abrasive than a metal stud.

28. QUESTION:
    Can a poorly fit night time mouth guard cause gum recession and teeth to chip?
    When first putting on the guard its tight but a few hours later it has a better fit. Is it just me or are the teeth moving slightly to fit the guard? If teeth are moving is it harmful?

    • ANSWER:
      Yes. you need to have your dentist check the fit. Point out the areas that are a problem.

29. QUESTION:
    Can using Crest Whitestrips cause gum recession? How often is it ok to go through the 10 day treatment?
    I bought Crest Whitestips Premium Plus and used them all and now I’m on my second box so I have been going strong for about two weeks is that ok?

    • ANSWER:
      using crest whitening strips will not cause gum recession but brushing to hard will. i ve used these strips in the past and found them to better than the whitening i got at the dentist. don’t use them to often, maybe every couple of months for a few days at a time to “touch them up” a bit. using whitening products to much can cause the teeth to look a transparent gray shade. you may find you have to use a sensitivity toothpaste after the strips. remeber to floss everyday and brush your teeth and gums well with a flouride toothpaste!!

30. QUESTION:
    I have gum recession is there anything i can buy or do to stop this?
    I cant afford the procedure to have it stopped it there anyway to slow it down. Or any product that has been known to stop this? My gums don’t bleed at all. Could it be hereditary? I need any dos and dont’s also. Please reply
    My grandmas teeth died by 30 could it be hereditary?
    How long will it take before all my teeth become loose and fall out?
    I have a water pik as well would that help or hurt them?

    • ANSWER:
      Do buy a soft bristle toothbrush. Medium and hard bristles could cause even more damage.
      Do brush your teeth twice a day, every day. Sometimes three times depending on what you eat.
      Don’t forget to floss once a day, everyday.
      Do use mouthwash once a day, everyday if you want.
      Don’t mess with your teeth or gums. This could cause the gums to recede even faster.

31. QUESTION:
    Is gum recession COSMETIC or medical?
    I have a couple teeth with severe gum recession due to over brushing. My insurance only covers necessary medical procedures…not cosmetic. Is there any chance that this is in fact MEDICAL.

    • ANSWER:
      Gum recession is a medical issue and not a cosmetic one. The gums and bone comprise the socket which holds your tooth in place. If these recede, your teeth become loose, and sensitive. Your insurance shouldn’t give you any problems with claiming any necessary procedures performed for your gums as long as you have periodontal coverage.

      More importantly, if you have been told by the dentist that you have brushed them away, have you modified your brushing technique?

32. QUESTION:
    Have you had a gummy smile fixed before? (gum recession using laser) How did it turn out?
    I’m a little nervous to get this procedure done. I’ve seen some wonderful pictures, but haven’t heard from anyone personally how there’s has turned out.

    Please elaborate on your experience if you can, and only answer if you have had this procedure done. (whether outcome was good or bad)

    Thanks!! :]

    • ANSWER:
      I am a real person and actually had this done a little over two weeks ago. I was at the dentist and just asked if he did the procedure out of curiosity. The procedure was 30 minutes tops, they did the numbing, took before pictures, did a little measuring, marked the places they would cut and then did it. I had little sores on my gums where they put the shots (but I get those every time they have to numb my mouth), and the gum line had little brown burn marks but went away by the next day with brushing. I had a little bit of bleeding with brushing, but they did warn me about it, and they gave me ibuprofen and pain killers (which I didn’t really need). For me I am absolutely ecstatic with the results. Before, my gums went straight across my teeth with no arch and I hated smiling, now there is arch for each individual tooth and I love it. I can’t wait for my husband to come home from deployment to see it.

      I hope this helps you, I recommend it to anyone who hates having a gummy smile.

33. QUESTION:
    I need a gum recession home remidy that’s guaranteed?
    I cant afford any procedures right now or see the dentist. Is their any home remedies that have been known to end the disease.

    Any ideas are appreciated
    Im pretty much out of luck.
    I need any ideas that could help “from home” tike toothpaste or gum oil

    • ANSWER:

34. QUESTION:
    In a case of gum recession, does anyone know how much it costs to repair and what the procedures are?
    More specifically on my canine teeth, i was looking in the mirror and noticed some difference in height of the gums compared to my other teeth. I know it can be done to fix, and my dentist has thrown the idea up in the air, but never really considered it…Does anyone know or had this type of experience?…anything is helpful! Although this has not been such a tragic issue for me, I was just curious to know as to how the process works and if its at all beneficial. If anything, I would do this sometime in the future, but again not a red flag situation. Thanks again!

    • ANSWER:
      I would have a general dentist or even a periodontist do this procedure. Never have a hygenist or anything other than the dentist do ANY surgical procedure. Enclosed is what to expect….

      Soft Tissue Grafts
      Gums can recede for several reasons, including periodontal disease, physical trauma (brushing too hard, too often or with a hard brush), tooth position and aging. If gum recession is severe, some of the tooth’s root will be exposed. This can make the tooth sensitive to hot or cold temperatures and more prone to root decay, or may create an appearance problem. Soft-tissue grafts are used to add more gum tissue to prevent further recession, cover the exposed root area, stop the sensitivity and improve the appearance of the tooth. Some people’s gums are naturally very thin, which increases the likelihood they will recede. In these cases, a soft-tissue graft may be done to prevent problems in the future.

      What It Involves
      There are three different types of soft-tissue grafts: free gingival grafts, connective-tissue grafts and pedicle grafts.
      –In a free gingival graft, a small strip of flesh is removed from the roof of the mouth. The tissue, called the “graft,” is then stitched to the existing gum tissue in the area being treated. This is often used for people who naturally have minimal amounts of gum tissue around their teeth and need to have them enlarged.
      –In a connective-tissue graft, a flap is cut in the roof of the mouth, forming a “trap door.” The tissue under the flap is removed. The flap is then stitched over the area. The tissue that was removed, known as subepithelial connective tissue, is then slipped under the gum tissue surrounding an exposed root surface and anchored in place with sutures. This is the most commonly used procedure for treating root exposure.
      –In a pedicle graft, a flap of tissue from around an adjacent tooth is partially cut away with one edge still attached. The flap, also called a pedicle, is then slid sideways to cover the exposed root, and is stitched in place. A pedicle graft can be more successful than a free gingival graft because at least some of the blood vessels that feed the grafted section remain in place. However, a pedicle graft can be done only if an adjacent tooth has enough gum tissue to “share” with the tooth being treated.
      With all of these procedures, many periodontists will use periodontal packing to cover and protect the grafted tissue for the first week or two of healing.

      Discomfort Factor
      With free grafts and connective-tissue grafts, you will have two wounds, near the tooth and on the roof of your mouth, where the graft tissue was removed. The wound on the palate is often described as feeling like a significant pizza burn. Prescription pain medication can help control discomfort after surgery.

      Aftercare
      Keeping the mouth clean is important, so unaffected teeth will have to be brushed and flossed as usual. Mouth rinses that contain chlorhexidine usually are prescribed to assist in plaque control during the healing period. Antibiotics may be prescribed, but usually are not.

      Side Effects of Treatment
      Typically, there are no long-term side effects after soft-tissue grafting. In some cases, the new gum tissue may need some reshaping using a procedure called gingivoplasty to make the gum look as natural as possible.

35. QUESTION:
    I thought gum recession takes a long time?
    But my gums have receded in less than 2 months. I used to have pink gums. Am i brushing too hard or what?

    • ANSWER:

36. QUESTION:
    I have noticed some gum recession on the bottom part of my teeth, is there a fix for this?
    I floss daily and use electric toothbrush, it is just on part of my gumline, what are the options?

    • ANSWER:
      You need a professional deep cleaning.They peel the gums back,clean everything out and sow it back.This is to prevent the recession.What you’ve lost,won’t grow back.If your roots are exposed,then you need another surgery.They take flesh from the roof of your mouth and cover the exposed roots.

37. QUESTION:
    I have gum recession is there any natural way that has been known to stop it?
    I look for homeopathic ways that are natural. or anyways to slow it down?

    • ANSWER:
      Oil Pulling…..this is something that I just found on a board I follow, so many people are doing it. If I didn’t see all the responses of so many others doing it, I would not believe it. Look it up. I haven’t tried it yet, but plan on doing so.

38. QUESTION:
    What causes gum line recession?
    I went to the dentist yesterday, and everything was fine, but one my bottom, front tooth, there’s gum recession, which I had noticed but I didn’t think too much of it.
    What causes that?
    and should I be worried about it?

    • ANSWER:

39. QUESTION:
    is there anything i can do about gum recession from brushing too hard?
    is it possible to stimulate regrowth of the gums?

    • ANSWER:
      If the cause is from your tooth brush try using a softer tooth brush…However, if the cause is from excessive plaque build up over time, typically surgical methods such as root planting may have to be performed to help save your teeth.

      If poor dental hygiene is the cause, typically your best bet is to improve your dental hygiene and make bi-annually appointments to your local dentist office.

40. QUESTION:
    Hi , do you know what happens with gum recession?
    Hi , i have braces and they are coming off soon my orthodontist said i would need to have a gum grapt or a little procedure .
    Do you know what happens during this?

    • ANSWER:
      I’ve never known anyone that had this but you can read about it on this site.http://www.perio.org/consumer/grafts.htm

      Good luck David!!

41. QUESTION:
    Can invisiligne cause gum recession? How harmful is gum recession?

    • ANSWER:
      I cant comment on invisalign, but as someone with a connective tissue disorder that includes gum recession, lemme tell ya, it sucks – you thought cavities were bad above the gum line? they get much worse on the part of your teeth not covered by regular enamel – and much faster….

      That plus there are all sorts of correlations between gum health and heart health….

      I dont see why you can’t wear the device – I would just make sure that you have it fitted properly and have regular dental care while wearing them….

      And get an Oral B vitality tooth brush – they are like all of 20 bucks and a great investment when it comes to gum health. Just as good as the 0 models

42. QUESTION:
    I’ve filed down my teeth – does this mean i’m in danger of gum recession?
    I didn’t look into the dangers of filing down my teeth beforehand, and did it just so my teeth were even. I’ve had a bit of gum recession… but is this going to continue? I’ve stopped filing them down now… So should it stop?

    • ANSWER:
      you have gum recession because you dont floss… your gum recession will not stop until you start flossing every day. you probably already have periodontal disease if you are noticing gum recession. the longer u go without taking care of your gums, the worse it will get, until you will be able to see parts of your teeth that you shouldnt see. i would suggest that you get evaluated by a dentist to determine the level of periodontal damage that you have. he can prescribe you a special periodontal mouth wash and will advise you to floss

      filing down your teeth causes the enamel to be filed away, leaving your teeth brittle and more easy to break and crack.

43. QUESTION:
    Can gum recession be prevented?
    I know recession usually occurs with the natural aging process but can you completely prevent it from happening with good oral hygiene (brushing & flossing after every meal)?

    Also, is it really that safe to floss a bit under the gums? Would that somehow cause recession? If done gently, would it?

    • ANSWER:
      Don’t brush to hard.

44. QUESTION:
    Can Acid Reflux encourage gum recession?
    Hello opinionated folks!

    I have both Acid Reflux & receding gum. I’ve had Reflux for about four years, while the gum recession has just become apparent in November of ’10.

    I’ve curious to whether the Reflux could be contributing to the aggressive recession? I assume that it’s a possibility. After all, it IS acid.

    Thanks in advance! Knowledge is appreciated!

    -RAVENHOLM’S VENDETTA

    • ANSWER:
      I’m not an expert, but yes, acid can encourage gum recession.

      I’ve noticed mine have receded as well, which is not cool. Although I do brush my teeth everyday, I used to be bulimic for two years and that can encourage receding gums as well.

45. QUESTION:
    How bad can gum recession get from a Monroe piercing?

    • ANSWER:
      Really bad.

      http://www.anzaloneperiodontics.com/images/Root-grafting_clip_image003.jpg

      Don’t get one…it isn’t worth it…

46. QUESTION:
    could gum recession be from brushing to hard?
    because when i brush and floss my gums don’t bleed so i’m just wondering.

    • ANSWER:

47. QUESTION:
    what is the best electric toothbrush to prevent gum recession?

    • ANSWER:

48. QUESTION:
    Has anyone had soft tissue transplant for gum recession and was it effective?
    A procedure was recommended for me for receding gums, which is to take tissue from the roof of my mouth and transplant it to the gum area. Is this a common procedure? Does it work? How long does it last?

    • ANSWER:
      I had it done to repair damage from a bike crash , it worked fine and now you can’t tell.–

49. QUESTION:
    gum recession ( Free Gingival Graft) Any tips ?
    Hi , i had my braces off now since Feburary and i have gum recession on my lower gum , i was at the gum specialist today and i have to have a gingival graft done in a few weeks . Can anyone tell me tips on how not to worry and is it painfull after ?

    • ANSWER:
      Don’t worry! I’ve just had a bone graft, which is similar except for bone (well duh:) It is really easy.

      It doesn’t hurt at all. Your Perio will totally numb you up. The only scary thing is possibly the injection into your palate. That may smart a bit, but it really isn’t bad.

      If you are nervous, you may be able to get nitrous oxide to help you calm down. Ask your DDS about it. It will make you not even care what’s going on in your mouth.

      My most important random tip: ask your Perio or assistant to tell you and show you exactly what your mouth looks like and feels like before you leave the chair. BEcause when you get home and are healing, it can really mess up the healing process if you are messing with your site with your tongue, or pulling back your lip to look. So I have my Perio tell me and show me exactly what it looks like so I know but don’t have to mess with the site! Just a tip that not many people think about, hope it helps

      You will be fine after the procedure! You may be given a script for pain pills. Take one asap, as the most pain will be just after the procedure. But after that, I was fine with my bone graft, I didn’t really need pills. If your donor site is bleeding a bit, moisten a tea bag and gently apply pressure with it. Be really gentil, cause the bag will bust open if you press too hard, and tea leaves will go everywhere!

      You can ice for up to 12 hours after your surgery, which may help if you are in any pain. But otherwise, you should be great and will be happy with what turns out!

      Good Luck!

50. QUESTION:
    triangle gaps between my bottom 4teeth due to gum recession. any good solution?
    I got a triangle gap between my bottoms 4teeth due to gum recession. I do still have the contact at the upper part of the bottom teeth, but those triangle gaps are bothering me very much. What is the best solution?
    well, i had metal braces for 2years while ago back, i am thining cause of all this was due to not taking care of my teeth while i had braces, with all the build up between and behind the braces. would the bonding would do the job? or do i have to get a veneer (from my search through online, it seems like veneer cost alot more then the bonding)

    • ANSWER:
      You have to go to a periodontist. Depending on your insurance, you might need a referral from your primary dentist. He’ll take measurements, do a perio scale (deep cleaning), then do more measurements to see if the problem is fixed. You’ll work with him to see where you go from there. Do it soon, the longer you wait, the worse it’ll be.