Expert treatment Gum Recession
Gum recession exposes the roots of your teeth and can lead to sensitivity, decay, and further damage over time. Specialized treatment can help protect your teeth and restore healthier gum tissue.
What is gum recession?
Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue surrounding the teeth gradually pulls away or wears down, exposing the root surface of the tooth. This exposed root surface can become sensitive, more vulnerable to decay, and more prone to additional dental problems over time. Recession is often associated with periodontal disease, but it can also be influenced by brushing habits, genetics, bite forces, and the natural thickness of your gum tissue.
One of the most important factors in gum recession is tissue thickness. Thin gum tissue is naturally weaker and more likely to recede over time, while thicker tissue tends to be more stable and resistant to recession. Thin tissue can often be strengthened and thickened through specialized periodontal treatment, helping protect your teeth and reduce the risk of future recession.
Treating gum recession
Treatment for gum recession depends on the severity of the condition and its underlying cause. In some cases, deep cleaning and periodontal therapy may help stabilize the area. In more advanced situations, gum grafting procedures may be recommended to rebuild and strengthen the tissue around the teeth.
Early treatment is important because recession tends to worsen gradually over time. Addressing recession early can help reduce sensitivity, protect exposed roots, improve appearance, and prevent more serious complications in the future.
Gum graft surgery
Gum grafting procedures are designed to strengthen weak gum tissue, protect exposed roots, and improve long-term gum stability. Different grafting techniques are used depending on your specific needs, the location of recession, and aesthetic considerations.
Dr. Matheson has extensive experience performing all major gum grafting techniques and is the only periodontist in Eastern Canada trained in free gingival grafts, connective tissue grafts, and pinhole gum grafting. She will recommend the treatment approach best suited to your individual case.
Free gingival graft
A free gingival graft is commonly used to thicken thin gum tissue and help prevent recession from progressing further. It is typically recommended for less visible areas of the mouth, as the healed graft may remain slightly noticeable. This procedure is highly effective for improving tissue thickness, tends to heal predictably, and is often one of the more straightforward grafting procedures.
Connective tissue graft
Connective tissue grafting is considered the gold standard for treating recession in more visible areas of the mouth. In addition to strengthening thin tissue, this procedure is often used to help cover exposed tooth roots. Because the results blend naturally with surrounding tissue, connective tissue grafts are especially valuable in aesthetic areas while also helping protect roots from sensitivity and decay.
Pinhole gum grafting
Pinhole gum grafting can be an effective option when multiple teeth are affected by recession. This minimally invasive technique uses specialized grafting material to thicken tissue without requiring tissue to be taken from the roof of the mouth. Many patients experience minimal discomfort afterward, although not every patient is a candidate for this procedure. Dr. Matheson will help determine which grafting approach is most appropriate for your situation.
