Can You Fix Receding Gums with Cosmetic Dentistry?

Many dental facilities offer cosmetic dentistry that can repair or improve a person’s smile. From dental implants to veneers and whitening, there are many options. Those who suffer from receding gums may wonder if cosmetic restoration is possible to fix their smile. While the answer depends on a few different factors, knowing what causes the problem, which treatment choices exist and what to expect may help individuals feel more confident about undergoing a procedure. 

What causes receding gums?

Before a dentist can repair receding gums with restorative dentistry, it may help those who have this issue to understand the cause. This can be especially important for dental patients who have poor oral care habits since they may learn newer and healthier practices over the course of the procedure. While inconsistent brushing is usually one of the main culprits, other factors may also cause the condition: 

• Aggressive tooth brushing habits
• Poor flossing habits
• High-fat or high-sugar diets
• Chronic dry mouth
• Advancing age

When receding gums are caused by health issues, such as taking medications that cause the mouth to dry out, it can be difficult to fight the problem. Individuals who experience receding gums sometimes notice gaps or pockets developing between the teeth and greater tooth exposure at the gumline. Fortunately, there are a few cosmetic procedures that may reverse or heal the concern. 

How can cosmetic dentistry help?

One of the most common solutions for receding gums is gum contouring. This process involves cutting away tissue from the roof of a patient’s mouth to use as a graft to cover tooth roots exposed due to gum recession. The cosmetic dentist will then use the existing gum to hide the graft, which gives the gums a more uniform and healthy appearance. This also protects tooth roots that might otherwise become infected, which can be a painful experience. 

What are gum veneers?

Patients who do not want to undergo gum contouring might choose gum veneers to improve their smiles instead. This process involves a dentist creating a mold of the gums, which is then tested for proper fit. Once the measurements are verified, a secondary mold is made, one that fits over the area the patient wants to conceal. These veneers are usually designed for nightly removal and cleaning, much like dentures, and can offer those who are not viable candidates for gum contouring an alternate solution. 

What aftercare is involved?

Every cosmetic dentistry patient is likely to have different needs, so aftercare for gum contouring or gum veneers may vary as well. Patients may have to adjust brushing habits to prevent further recession and floss more faithfully to encourage future gum health. In most cases, little to no aftercare is required although veneers may need adjustments on occasion. If these dental devices become uncomfortable, patients may want to return to the dentist for a solution. 

Conclusion

Cosmetic dentistry may help those with receding gums feel more confident in social situations where smiling is an important aspect of person-to-person interaction. Gum contouring and gum veneers can help individuals of almost any age proudly reveal a healthy and attractive smile. 

Are you considering cosmetic dentistry in the McLean area? Get more information at https://www.oaktreefamilydental.com.

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