Recessed Gums

Bayberry Dental Care in Tinley Park treats a number of cosmetic tooth problems, including some with dangerous implications of the health of a patient’s mouth. Recessed gums not only make a person’s teeth look overly long, they also leave the tooth roots exposed and sensitive. Severe cases may require specialist attention, but Dr. Kathleen M. Falsey has ways of covering exposed roots.

Recessed gums have many causes, including genetics and misalignment of teeth, but the most common cause is periodontal disease. As plaque builds up in gum pockets, acids stick to plaque and cause the surrounding tissues to dissolve. A deep cleaning involves smoothing out the grooves of damaged roots where bacteria accumulate, but the roots still need protection.

In mild cases of recessed gums, the solution is the same as for gum pocket reductions. The doctor will cut a flap in healthy gum tissue, fold it over the roots, and suture it in place. The severe cases require a gum graft. In these procedures, donor or synthetic material is attached to the gums and stretched over exposed roots. While nobody likes the idea of surgery on their gums, covering exposed roots is a common procedure and often successful.
Kathleen M. Falsey, D.D.S., operates Bayberry Dental Care at 8014 West 171st St, Tinley Park, Illinois, 60477. To schedule an appointment, call 708-802-8300 or visit BayberryDentalCare.com and fill out a contact sheet.