A healthy smile includes pink gums that sit evenly around each tooth. If you’ve noticed pain and discomfort in your gums and your teeth look longer than before, chances are you have gum recession. This condition can leave gums vulnerable to decay and infection. Luckily, there are a variety of reliable treatment options for correcting gum recession.

What Causes Gums to Recede?

Gum recession often results from gum disease. Bacterial plaque burrows below the gum line and inflames your soft tissues, causing them to pull away from your teeth. As the bacteria spread, they reach the root, further damaging teeth, gums, and the underlying bone.

While infection is the most common cause, gum recession can result from other issues including:

• Brushing and flossing too aggressively- Make sure you are gently brushing, not scrubbing! While gums are responsible for keeping your teeth secure, they’re sensitive to harsh brushing and flossing. Remember, caring for your smile shouldn’t hurt.
• Genetics- Many of your gum’s traits are determined by genetics as well. If gum recession runs in your family, you’re most likely at a higher risk for developing the condition.
• Abnormal tooth position- If you have misaligned teeth, gum recession can occur because an asymmetrical smile is more challenging to care for.
• Soft tissue injury or trauma- Soft tissues of the mouth can recede when there has been a traumatic injury to your tooth or gums.

Professional Treatment Options for Your Gums

The Chao Pinhole Treatment is a minimally-invasive, scalpel-free treatment for correcting gum tissue recession. The periodontist uses the healthy gum tissue in your smile and repositions it using special instruments inserted through a tiny opening made in the gums. The procedure is virtually pain-free and requires minimal recovery time.

Dr. Danny Joseph is certified in the Chao Pinhole Treatment and proudly offers it to his Bay Shore patients. For more information on how our team can rejuvenate your gums optimal health and function, schedule your detailed consultation today!