Receding Gums Treatment

Frequently Asked Questions

1. QUESTION:
   Does anybody know anything about OraMD, a natural treatment for receding gums?
   It’s all over the internet, can only be ordered online, lots of hype. It contains peppermint and spearmint oil. Anybody know about it?

   • ANSWER:
     OraMD is an all natural liquid toothpaste, mouthwash and breath freshener that you will want to purchase now. OraMD is a potent bacteria fighter that is anti-bacterial, anti-microbial, anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory with powerful plaque fighters eliminating the need for chemical laden toothpaste alternatives. This product is also has interdental access, meaning it gets in between the teeth and goes after the bacteria that is hiding in the nooks and crannies of your mouth and gums. This precise formulation of three 100% pure botanical oils of almond, spearmint, and peppermint is designed to kill the bad bacteria that are ravaging your gums. There are 100′s of types of these 3 botanical oils and dozens of properties for each type – literally millions of combinations. This is a scientific formula matching the right properties of the right oils and designed specifically to combat the bacteria in your mouth. There’s nothing like it on the market – it’s fast effective, and leaves a lingering real fresh clean feeling in your mouth unlike anything you have experienced before

2. QUESTION:
   does anyone know of a true treatment for receding gums? Anyone hear of Rejuv for gums and if it really works?
   rejuv for gums does it work?

   • ANSWER:
     Nothing works really, just stop brushing very hard in that area and get regular cleanings done

3. QUESTION:
   Questions/info about RECEDING gums!??! prevention?? treatment>>>>>>>>?
   so I noticed today that some of my upper teeth are extremely sensitive and It looks as if they arent being covered enough by my gums. I have done some research about receding gums etc, and have concluded that I prob have it.
   If I do have it, what can I do to prevent it from continuing further?
   and more importantly If I alreay have it, and I start some kind of treatment for it, will my gums ever return back to normal???????
   any info it welcome!!!

   • ANSWER:
     Fillings and crowns that do not meet properly should be corrected, and grinding and clenching the teeth should be stopped.
     Once the gums have receded, the teeth may become sensitive. The dentist may prescribe an agent to desensitize the teeth. Most of these agents are in solution form and are applied to the sensitive area with a cotton swab.

     Certain toothpastes may provide some relief. If the teeth continue to be sensitive, composite resins or other types of fillings, such as amalgam or gold, may be placed in the tooth.

     Nutritional supplements such as calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, vitamin B complex, and vitamin C are sometimes prescribed for prevention of decay and repair of gum tissue.

4. QUESTION:
   Can i have orthodontic treatment of my gums are receding?
   My gums have worn out and i can see the root of my teeth. Can I still undergo orthodontic treatment?

   • ANSWER:
     You first need to see your general dentist. Are you brushing too hard? Use a soft brush and be gentle. If left untreated, teeth will decay at the root surface, which will lead to major problems. Tissue grafts and/or composite fillings are options, but you really need to get to your general dentist. He might refer you to a periodontist for treatment. If you haven’t started with orthodontic treatment yet, get the receding fixed first. If you are already in braces, you need to be going to your general dentist for check ups and cleanings every 3 months. Being in braces plays havoc on gum tissues! Yours are already compromised, so don’t start treatment yet.

5. QUESTION:
   What is treatment for receding gums?
   I’m 14 and my gums have receded a bit. I think it’s from brushing too hard so I’m trying to brush softer. But I’m wondering if my gums will naturally grow back? If not, how is this treated? I’m kinda scared because I don’t want them too keep receding and then my teeth fall out. I’ve heard there’s a surgery procedure, but is there anything else?

   P.S. my dentist doesn’t know about it yet. My next check up is in like January I think, maybe February. My parents won’t take me in until then because health insurance won’t cover the cost of the appointment. So I’ll tell him then unless I really feel like I need to tell him sooner. I just want to know what kind of treatment I might have to get,how much it costs, and if it is painful or not. Thanks.
   They’ve receded more than I’m comfortable with. I need to fix it or at least stop it somehow.

   • ANSWER:

6. QUESTION:
   What is the treatment for receding gums?

   • ANSWER:
     The only treatment for receding gums is gum grafting. It is a painful process and long to heal. Tissue is taken from a donor site usually the roof of the mouth(part of the reason for the pain) and put in the recessed area. This is done by a periodontist. If the recession is not too bad and the sensitivity is bearable than proper maintenance is a good alternative. Brush with a soft or extra soft brush, carefully floss daily and use a rinse like Listerine. A toothpaste for sensitive teeth can also help. Regular dental visits are also very important to monitor the recession

7. QUESTION:
   Treatment for receding gum line?
   I don’t have dental insurance so i’m looking for an at home treatment for receding gum lines. I noticed it starting to happen about a month ago, and it’s mainly just happening to the front teeth on the top row. Any suggestions would be helpful thank you!

   • ANSWER:
     There’s no treatment, only prevention. Use a soft tooth brush if you aren’t already, but other than that a dentist will be able to tell you how to further prevent the recession.

8. QUESTION:
   one of my teeth has become loose i think its receding gums.does anyone know the treatment from the dentist?
   im frightened to go, even though i must..and the worst part is that its a front tooth….HELPPPP

   • ANSWER:
     Hi you need to go to your dentist they are not all bad. I am a dental nurse and I know that this problem will not be sorted by itself. You may have receding gums but the main problem will be bone disease. If you have receding gums, it is usually a sign of infection or a build up of tartar and plaque. Which in turn affects the bone supporting the teeth. You will probably need a series of scaling treatments to tighten up the gum. Nothing can be done about the bone loss though. If it is really bad there are things they can do to replace the tooth, such as a bridge. If the tooth is just clicking slightly now and again there is nothing wrong with it, it is just the ligaments in the tooth socket. Good luck, do go and see a dentist as there are ,many things that can be done and you wont be walking around with a gap, I can assure you.

9. QUESTION:
   receding gums?!?
   So I’ve noticed that my bottom gums are receding a little. and I have NO IDEA WHY. I looked up possible causes of it online, and i forgot what it said, but they said that people between the ages of 40 and 60 start to get receding gums, but i have no idea why mine are, because I’m 13?! Does anyone have any ideas of why this is happening to me, and some treatments for it? Thanks. <3

   • ANSWER:
     If you have receding gums, it is indeed a cause for concern and the best thing that can help you is to see your dentist as soon as possible so that your dentist can assess the extent of any gum problems and can be able to giver appropriate recommendations and certain treatments that can improve the condition. In general, gum disease is caused by bacteria in plaque and they release toxins. And the first thing that you may get to notice is that your gums do bleed without any pain. Eventually, gum disease can cause teeth to become loose, and pockets are formed in the gum. In these pockets, bacteria can cause infection in the gums, accompanied by swelling, pain and destruction of the bone that supports the teeth.

     for more tips on gum health care visit http://www.oramd.com

10. QUESTION:
    I have receding gums due to gum disease. Im 17 and cant see a dentist.?
    Even if i could see a dentist i cant afford the treatment. Is their and home remedies or ways to control the disease from home?

    Will milk help or hurt my gums?

    Please Help!!
    My gums are red and have pockets, or if i don’t have gum disease, could i have very sensitive gums?

    • ANSWER:
      Floss once per day, making sure to gently stimulate your gums. When you brush your teeth, also gently stimulate your gums. It helps increase blood flow and “builds up” your gums.

      Milk is fine.

      How do you know you have gum disease if you haven’t gone to the dentist?

      Also, if you smoke – quit. It is HORRIBLE for gum health.

11. QUESTION:
    Will My Closed Bite Contribute To Receding Gums
    When I was about 14 I was treated for a slight closed bite with braces. After 2 years my teeth were pretty straight and my bite was improved greatly . However. after a few months of wearing a retainer I discontinued treatment. I am now 19 and regretting my decision to stop wearing the retainer because my bit has returned to its original state. Although my closed bite is not severe what or the odds that I will develop receding or disfigured gums. Note that I don’t drink, smoke, I floss daily and clean my teeth bi-monthly with baking soda.

    • ANSWER:
      I will share that if you keep your mouth very clean and make sure you get off the plaque from the gum line will save your teeth. Baking soda I was told by my dentist is too rough and will actually scratch the enamel off the teeth. Never use a hard or firm toothbrush and never press hard. Pressing hard only damages the gums. Make sure you keep your dentist cleanings as these are very important.

12. QUESTION:
    I have a receding gum.can a receded gum ever grow back or recovered by some measure or treatment?

    • ANSWER:

13. QUESTION:
    m beginning to have receding gums from grinding teeth.ive noticed my teeth grinding as become more intense.?
    if i go buy a mouth guard and stop this.is it possible for my gums to grow back?ive read plenty of dental forums stating that gums do grow back in certain cases.the body was mad to heel its self.if not what treatment is there for gum tissue repair?

    how i know my teeth grinding has become more intense.when i wake up my mouth hurts more and teeth hurt more than ever.worst headaches than ever.
    i see people start assuming that only gum disease cause gum rescission.you can put aside teeth grinding which also cause gum rescission.im 100% that’s whats been causing my gum problems.i didn’t start to notice that recession until my teeth grinding got worst.

    • ANSWER:
      Have a custom night guard made by the dentist. It will be more comfortable and fit better than a mouth guard. This will not only help with the gum recession, but will help your TMJ symptoms feel better. Unfortunately, the receded gums will not grow back but will only stop from getting worse. Gingival grafting is the only way to have them grow back. It is expensive and the prognosis for success is not the greatest. Talk to your dentist for further advice and good luck.

14. QUESTION:
    Receding gums? what to do.?
    1.How many times a day do i brush
    2. Does baking soda and peroxide help or hurt the gums
    3. water pik use
    4any other suggestions to slow it.

    obviously i cant afford gum surgery or seeing a dentist or i would ask them, Any dos and donts are great. Home treatment ideas.
    I know its periodontal disease, I know its from two things thin gums and bad brushing habits.

    Will a water pik help or hurt it?

    • ANSWER:

15. QUESTION:
    Will braces aggravate my receding gum condition?
    I have a receding gum condition and have consulted with 4 orthodontists lately to evaluate my teeth for braces. One orthodontist told me that there is a “risk” about aggravating my gum condition with the use of braces and recommended a very limited orthodontic treatment. My question is, is this one orthodontist giving me an honest professional opinion given the fact that none of the other 3 orthodontists expressed even the slightest reservation about attempting towards a complete correction of my misaligned teeth with the use of braces?

    • ANSWER:
      Actually, most receding gums are due to hereditary factors, but don’t just leave the condition alone to have its way with your teeth. Recession is normally first addressed either before or at the beginning of ortho treatment and the periodontist and orthodontist are supposed to be working closely together on your case.

      I’d locate a periodontist and choose an orthodontist s/he recommends and is accustomed to working with. You need the team approach. Plus, a periodontist is the correct professional to determine whether or not orthodontics is advisable in your case.

16. QUESTION:
    Help….Receding gums?
    I’m 21 years old and my gums have started to receed on my bottom front 4 teeth. What is the treatment for this? And I thought it was something that happened when you got older?

    • ANSWER:
      lack of flossing but also dont brush to hard that can hurt your teeth and your gums. my gums receeded due to lack of flossing the easiest way to explain it is the bacteria get down in between the teeth and gums and sorta push the gums away. Start flossing properly if you dont already and get your pearly whites cleaned as soon as possible and every 6 months after that.

17. QUESTION:
    my gums are receding?
    i’m setting up an appointment with my dentist soon, but here’s the deal: recently i’ve been noticing my gums have been sore and bleed when i brush and floss. there’s one tooth in particular (top left canine) in which the gums are receding, and it’s progressed pretty quickly over the past 3 days. today it looks as if my tooth could loosen up any second, but feels quite normally in place. the gums appear to be near the start of the tooth and it’s really frightening me. i smoke, and i have really misaligned teeth. i brush at least twice a day, and just recently started using listerine total care and floss, but to no avail. it’s only gotten worse in the period of time i’ve been using it. periodontal disease has occurred in both my mother and my grandfather and it looks like that’s the case here. does any body have any advice or treatment recommendations until i make it to the dentist, as i really don’t want this to get any worse and it seems the conventional methods just aren’t working for me.

    • ANSWER:
      You need scaling and polishing to remove stains and calculus deposited on teeth. Though you brush your teeth 2 times daily, you need some tips for MAINTANENCE OF PROPER ORAL HYGIENE:-

      1. Brush you teeth with SOFT BRISTLE toothbrush 2 times daily.
      2. Proper Brushing Technique is to brush your teeth VERTICALLY (up and down motion) than horizontally (motion while brushing to remove the bacterial plaque more efficiently and also to avoid injury to the gum and teeth in the long run.
      3. Make sure that you brush ALL surfaces of your teeth.
      4. After brushing don’t forget to brush your tongue with the same brush which will prevent bad breath.
      5. Apply gentle pressure to your teeth and tongue while brushing. Excessive pressure can injure soft tissues and may even cause abrasion (mechanical injury to the teeth due to excessive pressure and habit of brushing the teeth horizontally)
      6. Ideally, brushing all the surfaces of teeth require atleast 4 mins.
      7. After meals swish water in your mouth and remove the food particles attached to your teeth and gum.

      Good Oral Hygiene is a key to keep your overall health better as many diseases start from mouth and may cause systemic problems. These 7 tips can save you from number of diseases which may cause serious complications in the long run. This also proves the proverb “PREVENTION IS BETTER THAN CURE”

      Thanks!

18. QUESTION:
    Teeth, Gums, Better Oral Health????
    Hi, I’ve read many answers on this site about receding gums and proper brushing techniques as well as searching the web but i havn’t got the answers i was looking for. I am a teenager who has worn braces for about 5 year, has slight reccesion on the lower front/side teeth, one molar with the inside gum reaching the bone, I have a couple of small fillings at the back chewing surfaces and acid erosion on the front teeth. I brush my teeth 2/3 times a day after meals but i don’t understand why my teeth are so bad. Could someone kindly answer these questions for me:

    1. How long does it take for gums to receed, 2 mins or a period of time?
    2. Is there a way to reverse receeding gums, or a treatment which would give a more appealling smile (stem cells, graft) what would be the cost?
    3. Are white fillings the way forward to improve my smile? How much would it cost? Do they last longer than the mercury fillings?
    4. Would seeing a hygienist help?
    5. Is there any treatment to acid erosion?

    • ANSWER:
      Wow! GREAT questions!!!

      1) Gums can receed in as little as a week if your brush technique is aggressive enough!

      2) You cannot reverse gum recession, only a dentist or a periodontist can through gum grafting. There are various graft techniques and they vary in price and effectiveness where the coverage of your roots are concerned. A competent dentist or periodontist will be happy to discuss techniques and prices.

      3) White fillings do not last as long as silver fillings. That said, if you are talking about front teeth, only white fillings are used. Another option is porcelain veneers and porcelain crowns. When you get into porcelain, the price jumps up considerably.

      4) Seeing a hygienist twice a year is an excellent routine to be in. She can examine and clean your teeth and provide you will products and skills you can use at home to obtain optimal health. Once a hygienist sees you, she will recommend the number of appointments you need per year to enjoy good health. It varies from patient to patient.

      5) Acid erosion is a very common problem and tough to control unless a patient is willing to change their diet. Many of the beverages, especially carbonated beverages, contain significant amounts of citric acid which does a very efficient job of eroding enamel. If you must consume these beverages, drink through a straw and try to avoid letting the beverage contact your teeth. The sour gummie candies people eat are also full of citric acid. Avoid these. To help strengthen the enamel, try a daily rinse of fluoride. There are also rinses available that help with the mineralization of enamel. Remember, these are not fool-proof. If the rate of demineralization or erosion is greater than the rate of mineralization, you WILL have problems. If the wear is already present, you will need restorative work. This could be a simple filling, but it might mean crowns. Get your teeth checked.

19. QUESTION:
    problem with my gums and loose teeth?
    hello everyone,
    i have an appointment with my dentist soon, as ive been experiencing receding gums (especially along the bottom gums at front) and now 2 of my teeth at the bottom are quite loose. im worried now as i don’t know what the options will be for me for the loose teeth. some of the people at my work think i mite end up with dentures!!
    ive been to the dentist last year and was diagnosised with gum disease, got antibiotics, treatment plan re: brushing and flossing. now i think that maybe the gum disease is back, has receded the gums and now my teeth are loose.
    has anyone ever experienced this? and if so, are getting the dentures my only option!! (obviously, the dentist will go through that with me, but my appointment isn’t for another 3weeks!
    thank you
    btw.. im only 30

    • ANSWER:
      First off, congratulations for using the word ‘loose’ correctly and not like one always sees it on YA as ‘loose weight’.

      I am not a dentist but have had some good care in the last three years. I too had some gum issues that were solved primarily by brushing but doing so by using a mechanical brush (soft bristles). I do this twice day for about two minutes in total each time (30 seconds per quadrant (right, left, upper, lower). The mechanical brush is superior to doing it with an ordinary brush. I know it is better as each year they do the test where they measure the depth of the space between the tooth and gum and mine improved after using the mechanical brush regularly as I had bleeding of the gums before and now I don’t.

      I would say the extent of how loose the teeth are will determine if they have to come out theses days the dentists seem to want to avoid pulling any teeth at all costs and using other techniques It is likely not the only option but you won’t get the answer here on YA or from colleagues at work. Only your dentist can make that determination.

20. QUESTION:
    Arestin vs. Laser dental treatment?
    My dentist told me I could use Arestin like 2 years ago. I didn’t want to pay for it. My condition improved significantly, and another dentist at the same office mentioned Arestin again, but also acknowledged that my gums were better. Then he said I might prefer lasers instead. The lasers clean the gums and base of the tooth so the gums grow back and attach to the bone better to reduce bone loss and receding gums.

    I would like to know if anyone has had either Arestin or laser treatment, and how much each costs, or if any dentists are on here and could explain lasers to me a little more. When I look it up online, there are many types of dental lasers, and I don’t know which one applies to me.

    Thanks!
    are either covered by insurance? I have pretty good dental coverage.

    • ANSWER:
      Arestin (minocycline hydrochloride) is an antibiotic used as a supplement to scaling and root planing procedures for reduction of pocket depth in patients with adult periodontitis. It DOES NOT REPLACE the need for scaling and root planing procedures.
      Typically, hand instruments (scalers, curettes) are used to clean around and under the gum. Lasers can almost do the same job, but are unable to reach between tooth roots as well as hand instruments, lasers do not do a better job, and they take more time. Plus, they are very expensive pieces of equipment to buy, and this cost must be passed on to the patients.
      None of the gum specialists (periodontists) to whom I refer patients uses a laser.

21. QUESTION:
    Discolored tooth after attack. Now root canal treatment and crown…how comes? what has happened?
    About 2 years ago my boyfriend (who is 20) was attacked by a large group of guys and took some nasty punches to the mouth. It left his front tooth a little crooked, he went to a dentist who sort of popped it back in the right position.

    However since then its gradually gone discolored a sort of grey especially down the center which my boyfriend hates, and then just the last few months that tooth and the teeth around it seem to have receding gums, where the gum seems higher revealing more of the tooth. Yet he is so hygienic he cleans and flosses his teeth properly and uses mouth wash….so whats going on?

    Yesterday he went to the dentist who said he will need root canal treatment and a crown, he was rushed a lot and didn’t even mention the gums!

    So my questions are…

    Did his tooth go grey because of being punched?
    If so why?
    What is happening to his gums?
    What is root canal and crown, what will it do, what will it cost?

    Thanks in advance guys x

    • ANSWER:
      Yes this is due to the punch he received previously. The trauma that it caused the tooth damaged the nerve which is what made it go dark over time. the reason this happened is when he was punched, the tooth was dislodged from the socket and the nerve was detached.
      A root canal is when the nerve of the tooth is removed with a special file. Then the canal is sterilized and filled with a material called gutta percha.
      Once the root canal is complete, then the tooth is prepped for a crown. this is done by shaving the tooth down to a sort of nub. Impressions are taken and models are sent to a lab so that they can cast a custom made crown. In the meantime he will be wearing a temporary crown. A crown is made of metal fused to porcelain, but sometimes is just porcelain. It is like a shell that covers and protects the tooth.

      As far as the gums are concerned, they are not related. Recession does not happen due to trauma. ( I had to ask the boss about this one)

      EDIT: As for the cost, it depends on where you are located. In southern California the total would run you about ,000.00, maybe a little less.

22. QUESTION:
    i have a receding gum line below one of my front teeth???help?
    its on my front bottom tooth, its receding a lot the tooth looks really long and there is a thick white notch grown around it…i never noticed it until someone else had the same problem and i went home and inspected and its the same for me…the gum around the notch is very red and inflammed today and i cant see the dentist for a couple weeks, do you think that my tooth will fall out if i cant afford gum grafting , i mean can it go away with treatment at home?

    • ANSWER:
      See the dentist when you can. And no, it won’t go away on its own. Brush that tooth gently, but do keep it clean. Continue to floss. Use an antiseptic mouthwash or salt water rinse. Gum grafting is essentially the only “cure.” If it goes too long without treatment, you could lose that tooth, but it is probably not incredibly urgent.

      It is called gingival recession, if you want to google it. Good luck.

23. QUESTION:
    Has anyone else had success in stopping allergies and gum disease with SensiStop?
    I came across SensiStop after a friend of mine recommended me to visit their site and try the product out. I have had amazing results following the 3 month treatment. I have suffered from allergies, such a as nut allergy and hay fever for years. That literally stopped in its tracks after the first month. I also had problems with my gums receding slightly causing concern, that too has disappeared. Has anyone else out there heard of homeopathic remedies with similar powerful results??

    • ANSWER:
      I looked at the website but couldn’t find any hint of the ingredients. I’m happy for you that it worked but it looks to me like it’s rather pricey. And, to be honest with you, it just seems to claim to cure too many ailments.

      If it’s introducing allergens into people’s systems to gradually build up immunity, that could have deadly results. But, peridontal disease and candida aren’t related to allergies. And, I’ve read of kids who had nut allergies, knew, where made to eat a cookie with the nut in it by a teacher at a school party–even after they told the teacher they couldn’t eat it and DIED! So, nut allergies can be very dangerous.

      Given the fact it’s fairly expensive, doesn’t even hint at what’s inside it, is a cure all, I’d say that it’d be a waste of money.

      Again, I’m happy that it’s working for you.

24. QUESTION:
    Why do dentists scare you about gum disease?
    If its not scary enough when your gums recede but then they tell you need this expensive surgery and treatment.
    I know its dangerous. but its like cancer. you want to ease them into it not tell them gee you are going to die or have drastic treatment.

    • ANSWER:
      Knowledge, information and treatment options are not scary. Informing people who have probably not spent more than 5 minutes thinking about oral health care in their entire life is not scary. It is the dentist’s job.

25. QUESTION:
    Braces vs. Gum Graft procedure in terms of expenditure?
    I am taking orthodontic treatment for the last 11 months. I will go through gum graft procedure for receded gums after teeth become aligned.
    I want to know what is the cost of gum graft procedure and its success rate. Thank you very much for your time

    • ANSWER:
      Success rate, with a gum graft procedure, is very very high. In fact, I worked for a dental specialist for ten years who performed a VERY large amount of gum grafts, and never saw one fail.

      That said, the typical cost for a graft can be anywhere from 0 right on up to about 00, depending on the size of the area and the type of graft (grafts can be simple or complex, large or small, so that has something to do with having such a wide price range).

      Since you worded it “gum graft vs. braces” I thought I’d point out that braces and grafting are done for separate reasons, and one cannot be substituted for the other (generally, they both need to be performed). However, I’m guessing you already know this based on the way you worded the rest of the question, just wanted to make sure

26. QUESTION:
    I think I have an early stage of Periodontist. What can I do at home before seeing a dentist?
    My gums are swollen and slightly receding. They are also stained yellow. As a child, I didn’t take very good care of my teeth and now I am 21 and paying for it. What can I do to sort of stop more damage before I can get treatment? Also, would it be a good idea to use whitening strips at this time?

    • ANSWER:
      This is a sure sign of Gingivitis. One thing that I tell all of my patients is that it is REVERSIBLE. By proper brushing, flossing, and seeing your dentist every six months, you can reverse this gum disease. If you do not take care of it soon, it can progress into periodontitis. Eventually the diseased tissue in your gums will begin to break down the bone. This can lead to tooth loss if untreated over the years.
      1. Start brushing at least twice a day to remove the accumulated plaque that causes bleeding, swelling, and inflammation. Be sure not to brush too hard – this causes recession. Also, angle your toothbrush at a 45 angle towards the gumline to get rid of all the plaque there.
      2. Floss at least once a day. Make a “C” shape around each tooth with the floss to get every surface. Most people miss this because they don’t realize that a tooth surface is not flat – it has curves.
      3. If you are sore and bleed, try to stay away from alchol based rinses as they can harm the tissue. Use a warm salt water rinses because it soothes the gums.
      4. Find a dentist and have your teeth cleaned.
      5. For now, stay away from whiteners as they can harm the tissue as well. Once you get the gingivitis under control, Crest Whitestrips work very well.

      Good Luck!

27. QUESTION:
    HELP! need advice on the treatment i received from the dentist for periodontal disease?
    i know i have periodontal disease and am really upset after i went to the dentist for the first time in 6 years that i had a rubbish job done. she said that the receding of the gums weren’t bad even though there are huge visible gaps between my teeth where the gums have wasted away and you can see the roots of my teeth. also im sure regular scaling was done as no anesthetics were used for deep scaling and she was digging it under my gums. i don’t know what the time scale of this procedure is but she barely spent less than 10 minutes doing it. now the gums on my front teeth have pulled away further and become really unattached yet and one part looking hacked into. i didn’t even get advice on how to brush and floss my teeth. i feel really upset and angry and don’t know what can be done about this and who if anyone i should be complaining to as this is really affecting my social anxiety and confidence.

    • ANSWER:
      I would start by finding another dentist 1-800-DENTIST is useful to find one in your area. I’ve used it before and have been happy with the results.
      Maybe contact the Better Business Bureau or look on your state’s government health website to find out who to report to.

28. QUESTION:
    i need root planing and scaling,, that’s what i need?
    I have receding gums my dentist says i need root planing and scaling so my question is this with the treatment and me maintaining daily cleaning and floss will my gums return to look like normal again?

    • ANSWER:
      Your receding gums will not return to there level they were without gingival grafting. The purpose of the treatment you will be getting it to stop things from getting worse and eventually having to have your loosened teeth removed. Good luck.

29. QUESTION:
    Please help!!! How do i get rid of gum disease with no dental treatment?
    can anyone help me i’m freaking out. My gums have really receded, i know i should go tothe dentist but i honestly cannot afford it, i am a student and i have lost my job. anyway my teeth are kind of loose but my gums have gone down a lot. is there anyway i can fix this on my own in a cheap way? is there anyway i can make my gums stronger??? please help me
    In response to Marcy i live in Ireland…..
    Can you still help?

    • ANSWER:
      Hey. Its a real problem not affording dental treatment. Especially with your condition. Gum disease is a real big problem, and can leave you with serious problems, loss of teeth is something very serious early in life. It needs to be stopped. I am a dentist and I know the worst it can cause.

      I advise a Periodontist. They get the best results but can be expensive.
      It can help where you are. If at all a holiday to a developing country such as India, Malaysia or Thailand is due. You can get it done there and the treatment would be cheap, the quality is amazingly good, the 3rd world ain’t that third anymore, yet there are some dodgy ones as well.

      At home:

      A strong mouthwash really helps, (Betadine or Chlorhexidine) NOT the usual mild ones like Listerine or Colgate etc. Mouthwashes kill bacteria sitting in places you can’t reach.

      Gentle brushing, do not damage the gums by brushing vigorously.

      Brush after every meal in your case, use chewing gum if you can’t do that during lunch. But DO NOT allow food to stay in your mouth during the night.

      Use an interdental brush in areas where floss is inadequate.
      Floss in areas interdental brushes cannot fit.

      Professionally I would do the following:

      Assess the cause… and stop that immediately.

      Mobile teeth which cannot be spared need to be removed. Any flapping about excessively? Others which move only slightly need to be splinted. A deep clean up of all the teeth, Removal of infected gum if required. Local antibiotic placement in the gums. And a 2-3 month recall for the first 1 year. Then a twice a year call up for 5 years. Reassessing fillings and crowns… they can be a hindrance and may need replacement if they trap food.

      FIND A DENTIST FAST, don’t take gum disease lightly, not if later on you want to be on a semi liquid diet.

30. QUESTION:
    Is there anything I can do to help my gums grow back?
    If so, what can I do to help them grow back?

    My gums are severely receded due to brushing my teeth too hard (apparently, although some genetics might also be a factor since my mom has the same problem). My dental surgeon told me there is no way to correct this problem unless I have undergo surgery whereby tissue is removed from the roof of my mouth and attached to my gums to fully cover the roots of my teeth again. This is not an option for me due to the expense and the fact that I’m too terrified to do it. I am wondering if there is anything I could do to help my gums extend back over my teeth enough again. Someone said that brushing gently down over my gums will eventually make them go back right. I’ve been doing that just in case it’s true, but haven’t noticed a difference.

    This is really just a stab in the dark, but I would like to know if anybody’s heard of any other treatment. My teeth are really sensitive b/c of the exposed roots. And I’m under 30, I worry my teeth will get really awful really quickly as I age b/c of this problem (making the roots more exposed to plaque and stuff like that).

    Thanks for your help!

    • ANSWER:
      Unfortunately your dentist was right. Short of gum grafting, there is no way they will grow back to their original height. However by brushing properly they should not continue to recede at an abnormal rate as they did in the past.

31. QUESTION:
    gum restoration?
    Is it possible to restore receding gums? And waht are home treatments?
    Thank you!

    • ANSWER:
      Gums that recede to expose the root surfaces of teeth is a common condition in adults over the age of 40. Many consider it to be just a sign of aging, and in some cases it is essentially that – often the result of wear and tear or years of aggressive tooth brushing. However, sometimes receding gums can be a sign of something more.

      In many cases, receding gums are caused by periodontal disease (gum disease). Three out of four adults have some form of it, and in most cases, it doesn’t cause any pain and goes unnoticed.

      Common in adults, gum disease starts when bacteria containing plaque builds up on the teeth and gums. When the plaque is not removed daily, it produces toxins that irritate and inflame the gums. Eventually the inflammatory process destroys the gum tissues, causing them to separate from the tooth and form spaces called pockets. The pockets hold more bacteria, which only compounds the problem.

      In the early stages, gum disease (gingivitis), marked by red or swollen gums that bleed easily, is reversible and can be detected and treated by your dentist or dental hygienist during regular check-ups. As the disease progresses (periodontitis), it can destroy the bone and soft tissues that support the teeth. In advanced stages of periodontitis, teeth can become loose, fall out or have to be removed by a dentist. In fact, periodontitis is the culprit in 70 percent of tooth loss in adults over 40.

      The good news is these gum conditions can be prevented by good daily oral hygiene habits. Receding gums are best prevented by brushing with a soft toothbrush, using mild-to-moderate pressure and small circular or very short back and forth motions. Avoid hard toothbrush bristles and long horizontal brush strokes with excessive pressure on your toothbrush.

      If your gums have receded, it is sometimes possible to graft tissue to cover a portion of the exposed root surface and to reinforce the fragile, receding gum tissue to protect from further recession. Also common to receded gums is sensitivity that results from the exposed root surface. Your dentist can apply medications in the office, and /or recommend products for you to use at home that will help reduce sensitivity of these root surfaces and help protect the now vulnerable root surface from decay.

      Remember, with daily brushing and flossing and regular visits to the dentist, adults can look forward to keeping their natural teeth throughout their life.

32. QUESTION:
    best prevention for gum/infection/tooth problems?
    Hello,
    I’ve got several family members with gum problems, receding gums, cavities, etc.

    Is there a mouthwash product in the market that can help prevent future infections, gum issues, cavities, etc? Or some kind of gargling?
    Natural treatments also ok.

    They do daily brushing and stay away from sugary foods, but these problems keep coming back. They are both in their 60s and take care of their teeth, but don’t go to dentists as they are uninsured.

    Thank you!

    • ANSWER:
      Going to the dentist is the best way to prevent and in saying so, that is their problem. Only professionals can remove the calculus build up that you cannot get off w/ brushing. Which then leads to infection, bone loss, cavaites….. Mouth wash is helpful, but your most important tool is diligent home care (brushing after every meal or sugary snack and FLOSSING!) Keep away from soda/energy drinks and juice.

33. QUESTION:
    Have you had PERIODONTAL SURGERY?
    Have you had surgery to treat gum disease (receding gums and bone loss) and if so, what was the treatment, was it successful, would you recommend it and do you have any tips or advice for someone (me) who has been diagnosed with aggressive, borderline localised/generalised periodontal disease

    • ANSWER:
      if your doctor says that you need surgery it means that your disease is aggressive and you HAVE TO do that.cause periodontal diseases are so important and if you dont go under treatment, you might loose your teeth.there is nothing to worry about. i did this surgery for the first time when i was a dental student for one of my patients.when she heales her gums were so healthy and she was so thank full

34. QUESTION:
    can’t afford dental treatment, how long can i wait?
    i’m a student and work around 35 hours a week. i know for a fact i can’t get on medicaid. a couple months ago my gums got all swollen and bled and i couldn’t eat. i went to the dentist (paid for her just to look at them) and she gave me pain meds and told me i have one cavity. since then i’m back to normal, without pain even though i feel like my gums have receded a little and i know i have more cavites since i hadn’t been to the dentist in probably over 5 years. thing is, i have no insurance and cannot afford to have a cleaning. i was thought of asking my parents to pay for a cleaning as my christmas present haha. since that was the only time in a while since my mouth bothered me, i’ve never had actual tooth pain and i brush my teeth often and floss and sometimes use mouth wash, can i hold off for long?

    • ANSWER:

35. QUESTION:
    Periodontitis Question, 21 years old [DENTISTS ONLY PLEASE]?
    Please bear with me through this explanation. Years ago, I was visiting the dentist, when he told me that it appeared as if I had gingivitis. He said I should floss, but I didn’t take it very seriously (I floss a few times a month, and I was in highschool). Over the past few years, I have had exceptional dental hygiene when it comes to brushing – I brush at least twice a day, and I brush very very lightly and with soft bristles.

    I have not maintained good flossing habits – at best I have flossed a few times a month over the past few years. Over the past few years, I have noticed sensitive teeth develop. I went to see my dentist a year or two ago, and they said that my gums had receded a bit from brushing too hard. At first, I believed them, but now, after doing what I would consider “extensive research” (read: Google), I know that I am not brushing too hard. I brush in a circular motion, very very lightly, and yet my teeth are still very exposed, I have chronic bad breath, my teeth are sensitive, and my gums bleed every single time I floss. Out of fear of periodontitis, I have begun flossing more regularly, and immediately after flossing, I use listerine mouthwash.

    I am unable to book a dentist appointment for another month, so my fear is this: I fear that I have progressed from gingivitis to chronic periodontitis, because I have concluded that my receding gums cannot be the result of brushing too hard, and also, my gums bleed without failure every single time I floss. As a dentist, would you, hypothetically, agree with my self-diagnosis? If not, why not?

    And if so, is there anything I can do now? A lot of research has told me that after progressing past gingivitis, and without early treatment, periodontitis is irreversible and can lead too tooth loss, etc. At this point, if my diagnosis is correct, I am long past the stage of early treatment.

    I have come to accept that my gums will never return to normal without surgery, and I will have to live with my long and sensitive teeth for my whole life (I am only 21). What I am not prepared to accept is that this condition will only worsen, especially as I age.

    Assuming I have periodontits – is it true that I cannot cure this? I know that the accepted method is to “treat” it with great oral hygiene, brushing at least twice daily, flossing daily, and using antiseptic mouthwash. I fully intend to do this, and for some time now, I have been. But, as stated, my gums still bleed every time I floss, and my bad breath, when not originating from my throat, leads me to believe that I will have this for life. (I believe I have bad breath because my girlfriend used to tell me that I “probably have rotting gums” because I occasionally had “bad breath”).

    Will my condition worsen? Is there anything else I can do (apart from seeing my dentist and addressing my concerns with him)? When I see my dentist, what can I expect from this? Is “treatment” enough? I am very young and I do not smoke, so I am heartbroken by the possibility that my gums may continue to recede and there is nothing I can do about it. I am a very healthy individual, I eat right, I have a very intense fitness regime, and I take pride in my hygiene and appearance. I do not want to loose my teeth, nor do I want my teeth to become more exposed, or to have bad breath my entire life. This is not a problem anyone in my family has experienced before me, and in case you’re wondering, yes, I use toothpaste for sensitive teeth. I just don’t know what to do with myself – I cannot wait another month under this stress (I have had these concerns for several months now).

    I understand you cannot give me “medical” advice, being online, but any professional opinion whatsoever is anxiously awaited, and I appreciate anyone taking the time out to read and respond to this lengthy question. Thank you.

    • ANSWER:
      How about a dental student’s opinion? To diagnose periodontitis, you need to go to your dentist. As I’m sure you’ve read from google, periodontitis is characterised by loss of attachment of fibres from your bone to your tooth. This leaves a pocket around your tooth. When you go to your dentist, he will measure the depth of your pockets, if there is any loss of attachment and if the teeth is moving. This will be done only if he suspects you have periodontitis. If there is any calculus (calcified or hardened plaque), he will remove that by either a hand or ultrasonic scaler. He may also scale below the gum line and onto the root surface. Calculus collects plaque as does fillings which overhang the natural contours of the tooth, so it is likely that he will fix these too.

      In the meantime, address your oral hygiene. You should be using a medium textured brush in an ordered was around your mouth ie left to right inside and out, so as you don’t miss any areas. You should brush your teeth with the brush held at a 45 degree angle to the gum and move from the gum line to the end of the tooth in short gentle strokes. You should always brush the gums and not brush anymore than two teeth at a time. Your gums will bleed due to the swelling. Plaque also gathers between the teeth so it’s essential that you remove it. If you don’t like flossing, you can buy “interdental brushes” which look like little bottle brushes that fit in the spaces between teeth. You insert then in the space and do between 20 and 30 strokes of a backwards and forwards motion.

      If you do indeed have periodontitis and your oral hygiene improves there is no reason why your oral status shouldn’t improve. Unfortunately, without having a look in your mouth, it’s difficult to give a prognosis. However, stop worrying, up your oral hygiene, and book an appointment with your dentist asap, as the sooner its diagnosed, the better the outlook. Best of luck.

36. QUESTION:
    Can Periodontal gum disease be stopped?
    I’m only 25 and I got diagonsed with periodontal gum disease in Feb. I haven’t had the time nor money to go see a periodontist but I am going to go on Tuesday to get a consultation…The dentist in Feb told me I am beginning to moderate stages…I so don’t want to go into the advanced stages! Can it be stopped any further? When you get the treatment do your gums stop being inflammed? I’m going to ge the treatment done…I just want to know what will happen..I am going to also go every 4 months to get the cleanings done..But does it stop from going any further? Also…my bottom gums are receding..I have brushed every day and everything for a while and this is still happening!

    • ANSWER:
      Periodontal disease can be controlled with good oral health care. Your gums will continue to be inflammed until you get your SRP (scaling and root planing). Once you get this procedure done, your gums will start healing, shrink, and wrap tighter against your teeth. If they do not, which really depends on your hygiene afterwards and your pocket sizes, there are other procedures to address these. If I were you, I would look for someone that does perioscopy. It’s basically periodontal endoscopy. Good luck. Make sure you floss afterwards. Brushing can’t reach into pockets well, so you need to floss.

37. QUESTION:
    Are my teeth going to fall out? Please help?
    I just turned 20yrs old, my gums have steadily been receding for some time now; I’ve recently had a dental exam and a subsequent scaling. They did say that would help, however it hasn’t. Aside from making my teeth cleaner, it hasn’t slowed or ceased the receding gum-line.

    My next appt is for Jan 27th, but I’m afraid my teeth my not make it until then. My gums have receded more so since my first scaling in December; the general feeling in my mouth is worse than ever. I’m beginning to see the near root of all my teeth, most noticeably behind the teeth.

    I’m embarrassed to call the dentist again because it seems like I always do it and they tell me the same thing every time. I have kept exceptional oral health of late; brushing, flossing, rinsing with Listerine and sea salt, and yet the problem gets worse. They seem relaxed about it, but I’m panicking. They told me I have periodontal disease but haven’t mentioned a gum graft or anything.

    What should I do? Should I call and ask them to see me sooner than the 27th? I’ve already had them expedite my appointments twice, so it’s embarrassing. Should I call an orthodontist and explain my situation to them? Problem is, I’ve sent all my money to the dentist for their treatment, which isn’t currently working, so I doubt I could afford an orthodontist right now.

    Any suggestions? Anything at all.
    I also think I grind my teeth at night. It’s not something I’ve ever noticed before, but I’m often waking up now with a sore or ‘tired’ jaw, and occasionally have the dream of my teeth falling out; which can of course mean anything but some dentists have told me it could be a subconscious sign of grinding my teeth.

    • ANSWER:

38. QUESTION:
    Is it possible to fill exposed dentine in teeth causing severe pain?
    Please help. I am a London girl with a big tooth problem.

    I have pain in 5 teeth on the bottom left hand jaw.
    There is a small amount of bone loss and my gums have receded approx 1-2 millimetres on this side. The dentine is exposed on the back and sides at gum level.

    The problem is not much but the pain is unbearable.

    I remember being worried when it started that it would turn into something else. I used to get one or two sharp pains but I found a lump of sensodyne did the trick. I also used a gum disease treatment and regular fluoride mouthwash. I had no pain for year. Then it came back except this time it was really bad. The sensitive areas of the teeth that normally might be sensitive to hot or cold were so painful you could compare it to having your nails ripped out and being burnt by cigarettes or stung by a bee. When it goes off like this, I also get pain in my jaw, cheek, lips, and echo pain in my ear and eye.
    It is not a neurological problem but the neuralgia is a side effect when it gets bad.

    I have underlying toothache between the teeth that kind of tingles and throbs. I don’t always feel it because the areas between the teeth are covered up by gums so it comes and goes.
    The problem is in the awkard to reach area between the teeth just under gum level. The pain is actually in the teeth, not in the gums.
    If I put a toothpick in between and pushed it down slightly it would set me off for several days in total pain.
    .
    When this happens I take heavy drugs – there is nothing I won’t take except for heroine & crack. The worst drug is tegretol but this works the best. I have to take large doses to have any effect. If I take enough it leaves me with just a low level bearable toothache.
    I can’t stand drugs of any kind and need to do something urgently

    I saw 5 dentists and couldn’t get past the xray. They didn’t see any big holes and that was the end of it. They didn’t have any patience or willingness to investigate. One took me seriously and offered to help. He tried desensitisation solution but this does not appear to be working. Also gum gel which hardens with saliva. This works for 24 hours.

    He told me he can’t do fillings because he can’t see where to drill and he would have to drill holes that may cause more pain.
    He said it’s not possible to fill the exposed dentine area.

    The final solution is to kill my teeth one by one followed by root canals.
    This would mean killing all my teeth on the bottom left hand side.

    I can’t believe this. there must be some kind of light cement type stuff that you can bond to the teeth without having to drill holes that gets into the root area just under the head of the tooth.

    If the area is covered up I don’t get pain. This is why the gum gel works. I can’t believe I need to get advanced tooth decay before the problem can be fixed.

    Has anyone had this problem and had it fixed?
    Or perhaps there is a specialist type of dentist I need to find out about.

    I am willing to do anything to fix it.

    • ANSWER:
      Yes it is possible to fill the exposed dentine with a tooth colored filling

39. QUESTION:
    Brushing too hard causes damage?
    Hi All,

    I am panicking! I haven’t been to dentist for nigh on 3 years – things just got in the way and I never got there – although before that I went every 6 months – time just flew. Anyway I had to get some emergency treatment for an old filling which needed replacing and was “shallow”; I was told it wasn’t an emergency!

    Anyway I have always diligently cleaned my mouth, long and hard with the toughest toothbrush I could find! And now I have what looks like heavy receding gums on the outside of the mouth (nothing on the inside) which looks to be the fault of hard brushing! I brush 5-10 mins at least twice a day which is an apparent no-no!!! Bottom line – am I going to lose my teeth – I’m 38 and never had any serious problems before – it looks bad (to me) but no where near as the scary pictures on the web….I am becoming paranoid and have a dentist appointment (I should have had a long time ago) tomorrow……

    Cheers in advance….

    Paul
    Thanks to all responding so quickly. Looking at the web pictures my receding is about 2millimetres, although I notice a “brown” stain – which I presume is tar-tar/plaque?
    Thanks your all making me feel better – “The DENTIST” it looks like light brown stain where the gum has receded. I should say over the 3 years my teeth have moved slightly; my front teeth use to match up, but one is just slightly out – I am guessing this is naturally movement with age? Once again thanks – making me much happier.
    Sorry should have said no pain, no gum bleeding (only when I floss hard in one tooth) and I am male.

    • ANSWER:

40. QUESTION:
    Toothache? All advice welcome!?
    Recently I had discomfort in a filled back molar ( I had missed checkups for some 18 months ) and the dentist made a temporary filling and then properly filled the tooth. She took an Xray at the same time which suggested that there was plenty of healthy tooth above the nerve. But since the filling, the tooth has become ultra sensitive and reacts with pain to any food or liquid. Even if I place a blob of Sensodyne toothpaste directly on the tooth, it hurts for a period. I also get some transient pain in other teeth although that is fleeting. Even inhaling cold air past the tooth seems to affect it. It means that drinking and eating are spoiled by this pain. I have agreed with the dentist to see if it settles down ( I am aware that oral treatment can disturb the pulp for up to a month say ) but it is not looking good. Someone suggested an exposed nerve due to receding gums and I should try ‘Tooth Mousse’ which I am told is an intensive fluoride paste and see if that helps. Can anyone please give me some advice here …. and why should a blob of toothpaste directly onto the top of the tooth cause the pain? All advice appreciated …. thanks

    • ANSWER:
      I am guessing that she did not level off the filling enough. I have had the same experience you describe when the filling was mounded up too high for my teeth to align properly when my mouth was closed as it normally would be. The pain was intense, sensitive to hot & cold, and NOTHING provided relief.

      I called the dentist, he had me come in, put some blue carbon-like paper in between my teeth and had be bite down and slide my teeth around a bit…by doing that, he was able to determine that the filling needed to be filed down a bit, and I was better within hours.

      If your dentist has not done this type of adjustment for you, ring her up and see if she can do one ASAP. And, there should be not charge for this, as it is a result of her not getting the filling smoothed out the first time.

      Good luck, my friend. I will think some healing thoughts for you!

41. QUESTION:
    How do you make a Formal Complaint against a dentist?
    I would like to make a complaint against a dentist. My dentist are refusing to treat me. I have gum disease. My gums are really bad. They really sore and hurting me. They red, inflamed and swollen.I have gum disease and my gums are starting to recede. My gums are getting shorter and my teeth are appearing longer. I went to visit my dentist for a check up and got told I had gum disease. My dentist says it is gingivitis but I think it periodontal disease. My dentist is also refusing to treat me. I asked to have a dental cleaning and asked too see a gum Specialist as I need treatment but my dentist was very blunt and rude towards me and just told me I should brush my teeth more. I told him I do brush my teeth and he told me that I don’t brush them propa and refused to treat me and told me to go away. He was very sharp towards me and I left the dentist feeling very upset. I want to go to another dentist to seek treatment elsewhere but I would also like to make a complaint against them as I found it very unfair that he told me I had gum disease then refused to treat me and told me to go away and was also very sharp and blunt towards me. I’m very upset as my gums really need treatment and it distressing me only for my dentist to turn me away literally bought me to tears. Anyone know how I can make a complaint against them?
    Actually i most prob brush my teeth more than you. I got OCD and I brush my teeth twice a day for 10 mins. I used to brush them for bout 30 mins but I cut down coz my gums are so sore so there you are your just as bad as my dentist jumping to conclusions that I dont brush my teeth just coz i got gum disease. I have only needed 2 fillings in the past 10 years and my teeth are in good condition. I have never had toothache before in my life. It is my gums that are the problem not my teeth and it unfair to judge someone telling someone that they do not look after there teeth just coz they got gum disease when they do. I know people that have bad teeth that are alot worse than mine who do not have gum disease. There is nothing wrong with my teeth and as for refusing to treat me a dentist should not refuse to treat a patient regardless of what there teeth or gums are like as that is there job. If they don’t want to treat people then they shouldn’t be a dentist and I have every right to compl
    If they don’t want to treat people then they shouldn’t be a dentist and I have every right to complain. My gums are in bad condition and I been refused treatment. As far as I am concerned my dentist was very blunt and had a bad attitude problem and for that reason alone he should not be a dentist and based of your answer no offense but I don’t think you would make a good dentist either. Dentist should atleast have manners and treat people with respect that they deserve.

    Oh yeah and your right being rude is not a crime but what does that make you a bad person that doesn’t know how to treat people with respect. I have never been to rude to anyone in my life unless there rude to me but then again I have a heart unlike some people.

    • ANSWER:
      It’s not worth your time to file some sort of complaint. Seek a second opinion of another dentist and have them determine whether they can treat your gum disease in their office or if a specialist is needed.

      Gum disease is serious and should be treated as such. Another dentist can help you.

42. QUESTION:
    Gum recession affecting only one tooth?
    On one of my teeth (2nd premolar on my right side) has a noticeably receding gum line. It’s been this way for a while but I only started to notice it in the last 6 months. That may sound like a long time but it’s not painful and none of my other teeth are affected at all. There was some very mild bleeding while brushing/flossing but I kicked up my dental hygiene habits and it’s gone away. This tooth has a rather large filling in it but more to the back and one end. If I floss between this tooth and the one behind it (going near the filling) it bleeds, none of my other teeth do while flossing, even the ones that are really tight.

    I brush usually twice a day, sometimes once, floss regularly, and use mouth wash whenever I remember. Sometimes I rinse with salt water too. When I brush I actually brush for a long time and pay a lot of attention to each half plus upper/lower of my mouth. Sometimes I worry that I brush too much or too vigorously which is why I go to once a day occasionally.

    I am in the process of getting dental insurance (I’m 22 and went off my moms a while ago and just haven’t had the means since then) but was curious for some opinions/experiences of others on what this could be. I *do* grind/clench, usually at night, and have been diagnosed with TMJ (only treatment for that is periodic chiropractic adjustments.

    Any advice/insights would be helpful, but please be kind. I *am* taking care of this, but would like some input. I am rather terrified of the dentist and would just like to know what I am about to approach.

    • ANSWER:
      For your second premolar: you might have problem with your occlusion. Mention to your dentist and ask them to check to see if there is a heavy bite on this tooth. Ask for mouthpiece (mouth guard) so you can wear at night when you grind your teeth.

      For your gum: The bleeding may caused by food impaction at the area you cannot reach. The best tool to clean around the gum area is water-pik. Find more info. about water-pik and learn how to use it at this site: http://www.productsuse.com/search/label/Recommend%20-%20%20Waterpik%20Flosser

      Don’t brush your teeth for long time because you can cut them. But floss every time after eating.

43. QUESTION:
    NHS dentist question pls help?
    I have gum disease, before when i brush twice a day, i used to see some improvement and no bleeding. BUT now no matter how many times i brush my teeth and floss, my gums bleed in the morning, during the day and night. I am so worried. Last time i saw my dentist, he did like 5 min cleaning and suggested i should see the NHS dentist as they would offer better treatment. i requested for tablets to help me or sugest any medication, he didint wanna give it to me ! why !?! I had to wait for almost 3 weeks to get an appointment and when i went for my appointment, they did check my gums, tooth and x-ray etc and they said it is not VERY bad!! i was like what ??! they said currently (August) all their trainee students are on holiday, they would call me end of sept to start the treatment!!!

    My gums are bleeding everyday am worried!!! specially the front teeth. they are receding and becoming sort of brown. all my gums are swallon too!

    • ANSWER:
      Where exactly were you when they suggested regular contact with an NHS dentist would be better for you?

      Sound like a dental school or training facility! This sounds like you are not actually registered as a NHS patient where you are going.
      In which case listen to what they are saying to you. They are saying that you need continuity of care with one person rather than seeing lots of different trainee dentists.

      There is no medication or tablets that will help gum disease other than good oral hygiene, regular contact with a dentist and hygienist. The same dentist on a regular basis gets a better idea of your mouth and can follow through.
      You have a higher risk of heart disease with gum disease and this is why it is so important that you listen to what they suggested,

44. QUESTION:
    Root treatment ot extraction ?… advice needed?
    Hi guys
    I’m middle aged and have had 3 or 4 teeth removed in the past. My present dentist thinks that I need to have one of my wisdom teeth removed. The gum line has receded around it a litttle and it has been filled twice in the past, at present I am suffering with it being a little over sensitive but the tooth itself looks OK. I am very reluctant to have it removed but my dentist says it’s my only option. He said he could replace it with tooth on a plate….but off course all this will cost me. My previous dentist said that taking teeth out should be a last resort once everything else has been tried.
    I’d be very interested to hear other peoples opinions and experiences.

    Kindest Regards

    Andy

    • ANSWER:
      i certainly wouldnt ever have another root filling it was the most painful thing ever and was hopeless the tooth broke after a few years so had to be removed anyway , trust me the pain is so not worth it, have the damn thing removed end of problem lololol

45. QUESTION:
    Can I Get Dental Insurance?
    I have suffered from gum disease for most of my adult life. I have a bridge for my front 2 teeth. Now I have an abscess in my lower jaw and lower front 4 teeth feel loose. There is a lot of receding gum showing. I have (NHS) appointment next week. I am anticipating dentist will want to extract the 4 loose teeth. Is it too late to take out private insurance cover so I can get private treatment or will insurance companies say no – pre-existing condition etc etc.
    This applies to the UK shambolic dental system!

    • ANSWER:
      Check the links below for dental insurance and dental plans:

46. QUESTION:
    Is a gingivectomy (gum reduction) needed?
    I’m getting my braces off rather soon and I’ve been speaking to my orthodontist and dentist about certain treatment options. For years, I’ve had concerns about my gummy smile. My gum line is low and uneven and I’m very self conscious about it’s appearance. I recently raised this concern with my dentist and he was not keen to perform a gingivectomy at all. My orthodontist was not keen either, reasons given:
    they see it as an invasive procedure
    they believe that if my gums are perfectly healthy, I should have a good gum to teeth ratio

    I have had at least a bit of gum disease for a number of years, I just find it a struggle to keep it away. If I was to get rid of it though, would my gums recede a bit to the length I desire, or would they barely change at all? Is a gingivectomy the only option?

    • ANSWER:
      If you have a gummy smile then its probably not the gingivitis that is doing that. You should definitely resolve that problem before you want to get that done. You’re gums are probably swollen from having gingivitis but its not going to go down a significant amount. Alot of peoples clinical crown of the tooth is actually longer than what is shown, so i wouldn’t see a problem with getting it done. It is not an invasive procedure, they can perform it with a laser and there is minimal bleeding. It is all up to how you feel, I know a women who had it done and loves her smile now. Its just up to you. I would go and get a second opinion and go to a dental office that performs those procedures either another general dentist or surgeon that performs them. And yes if you feel you show too much of your gums with you smile or talk is a gingivectomy.

47. QUESTION:
    Just been to dentist, havent been for a year (phobia) had an xray told that it didnt look good, had 2 teeth?
    removed and a filling, also a clean and thats it, dentist said to make an appointment for months asked her what about the rest she says they fine, but my gums are receding i can see under the gums little brown spot on my tooth (perhaps needing a tiny filling?) and one of my front teeth can move slightly because my gums are not tight against my teeth! Is this normal for a nhs dentist, do they usually wait until you need the teeth pulled before they do any treatment? And how can i improve my teeth and gums between now and the next visit to the dentist so i dont end up losing more teeth!
    not seeing her for 6 months i meant to say

    • ANSWER:
      Floss every day. use regular floss to make a C shape to hug the teeth and really rub each side of the teeth to get food out. Then brush 3 times a day gently using fluoride toothpaste. Also use ACT fluoride mouthwash every night before bed after brushing your teeth to prevent getting cavities. And have a dental cleaning every 6 months.

48. QUESTION:
    I need to have crowns on four of my top front teeth. Which would you recommend – NHS or pay higher price?
    I’ve been told that NHS crowns are not as good as crowns done via private dental fees. Something about them being made of metal and coated in porcelain and when gums recede the dark line shows. Is this true? If I pay the private fees I’m looking at around £1,000 worth of treatment!

    I’m interested to hear other peoples’ opinions on their own crowns and which they’d recomment particularly for front teeth – for back ones it doesn’t matter much, but when it’s your smile …….!

    • ANSWER:
      You pay for what you get. Indeed some NHS work can be quite good – it depends on your dentist and the laboratory skills.

      If you are worried about the dark line showing then you can ask about a metal free solution. Ask about Emax, or lava crowns cos they kickass!

      £1000 is actually quite cheap.

      Expect about £300 per crown if metal free.

49. QUESTION:
    Braces for gum recession?
    I’m 43 and my dentist suggested braces for a bite/alignment issue which is causing gums to recede. I was shocked because I have visually nice teeth. He explained that my bite was causing the teeth to move, which would likely result in damage to the roots, leading to bigger problems down the line. I saw an orthodontist and he agreed. I’m just wondering if this seems like overly aggressive treatment?

    The dentist also said a sleep guard was the second option, which might slow the damage, but not correct it.

    I am a new patient to the referring dentist, and I think I trust him. He came highly recommended by a friend.
    The recession is occurring starting at my canine teeth and then back 3-4 teeth on each side.

    The dentist did a lot of diagnostics by making me move my jaw side to side to see how the affected teeth were bumping into the bottom teeth.

    He felt it wasn’t due to rough brushing because he didn’t see it affecting any other teeth then the ones that were bumping when moving the jaw side to side.

    His letter to the orthodontist read as follows:

    “… several areas of recession were noted. I believe these areas are related to her group function. I explained the benefits of cuspid protected occlusion with anterior guidance.”

    I hope this additional information can help some one give me their informed opinion.

    • ANSWER:
      Before the investment of time and $ on ortho, get an independent diagnosis. You needn’t inform any of the dds that you a seeking a third opinion.

50. QUESTION:
    Can My Root Filled Crown Be Saved? Or Is Extraction The Only Option?
    I had a lower back tooth root filled and a gold crown fitted when I was 24 (I’m now 43). I never had any problems with it at all, until about 12 months ago. During a check-up, my dentist said because my gums had receded, there was a small hole/gap at the bottom corner of the crown. This he tried to fill.

    A couple of months later, I noticed my gum was swollen and I was getting a nasty taste and smell in my mouth. Because I had moved, I had to register with a new dentist. He done an X-Ray and confirmed that I did have an infection under the crown. I asked if he thought I would loose the tooth and he said he didn’t think so, giving me the impression the problem wasn’t too serious. He said all it needed, was for me to insert a ‘Te-Pe’ brush through the small gap on the gum line, to clean out under the crown every day. He showed me how to do this and he didn’t even give me any antibiotics.

    Although I followed the dentists advice for about 3 months, I didn’t ever seem to completely get rid of the infection. Even when it appeared better for a few days, it would come back.

    I went for another check-up this week and had to see a different dentist, as the first had left. I explained to her that I was still having problems with the crown infection. She didn’t really seem to examine it, apart from just tapping it. No X-Ray this time or anything. She then read my notes that the first dentist had written, saying that I had an abscess and concluded that the tooth would have to be extracted. I was really surprised by this, because it seemed to contradict what the first dentist had told me. I asked if the gap/hole could be further filled, or sealed, or if a new crown could be fitted. She repeated that the only treatment was extraction. I asked for some antibiotics, but she said they wouldn’t help, because the infection would return. I came away feeling very confused and said I would like have a think, before having it removed.

    I don’t want to loose the tooth if there is any way it can be saved. Just not sure what to do for the best. I’m sorry this is such a long question. I guess what I am really asking is, given that the tooth has previously been root filled, are there any techniques available that could still allow it to be saved? Or is extraction the only option? Does it sound like I have been given poor advice/care? And how could the advice be so contradictory? Also, would I be better to find another dentist, or go back to the one who did the original filling before I moved? Many Thanks, any advice very gratefully received.

    • ANSWER:
      To get all the answer to your questions, you should go visit an endoodontic specialist. I know the tooth had already been root canaled but there was a leak in the crown. The endodontic specialist will check the tooth if the root canal has to be re done. Now if the endodontic specialist says you have a gum infection, then you should go to a periodontist. Those two specialists will determine where the infection is coming from and if it can be treated to save the tooth from extraction.

      Its possible your dentists feels that the prognosis for that tooth of your is too bad so he said it would be better to pull it instead.