Periodontist: The Best Periodontal Treatments for Receding Gums

Periodontist: The Best Periodontal Treatments for Receding Gums

Post by : Dr. James Connan BChD GDC No. 230670 | 5 March 2025

Receding gums can be both a cosmetic concern and a serious oral health issue. As gum tissue pulls away from the teeth, it exposes the roots, leading to increased sensitivity and a higher risk of decay. Left untreated, gum recession can contribute to tooth loss. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, seeking care from a Periodontist—a gum specialist—is crucial for preserving your smile and oral health.

What Causes Gum Recession?

Gum recession can develop gradually, often going unnoticed until significant damage has occurred. The most common causes include:

🔹 Gum Disease (Periodontitis): A bacterial infection that damages the gum tissue and bone supporting your teeth. It is the leading cause of gum recession (NHS, 2024).

🔹 Aggressive Brushing: Using excessive force or a hard-bristled toothbrush can wear away gum tissue over time.

🔹 Genetics: Some individuals are predisposed to thinner gum tissue, making them more susceptible to recession.

🔹 Poor Oral Hygiene: Failing to remove plaque and tartar can lead to gum inflammation and eventual recession.

🔹 Tobacco Use: Smoking or chewing tobacco can accelerate gum recession by restricting blood flow to the gums (Cleveland Clinic, 2024).

Recognising early warning signs, such as increased tooth sensitivity, bleeding gums, or teeth appearing longer, is essential for timely intervention.

Periodontal Treatments for Receding Gums

A Periodontist offers specialised treatments to restore gum health and prevent further recession. These include:

🦷 Scaling & Root Planing (Deep Cleaning)

This non-surgical periodontal treatment involves removing plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smoothing the tooth roots to promote healing and gum reattachment. It is often the first step in treating mild to moderate gum recession (British Society of Periodontology, 2024).

🦷 Gum Grafting Surgery

For more severe gum recession, gum grafting may be necessary. A Periodontist takes tissue from another area of the mouth (often the palate) and grafts it onto the affected site. This helps cover exposed roots, reduces sensitivity, and improves gum aesthetics.

Types of Gum Grafts:
✅ Connective Tissue Grafts – The most common type, where tissue is taken from under the palate and placed over the receded area.
✅ Free Gingival Grafts – Uses a small amount of tissue from the roof of the mouth to thicken thinning gums.
✅ Pedicle Grafts – Uses gum tissue from adjacent teeth to cover the recession site.

🦷 Pinhole Surgical Technique (PST)

This minimally invasive procedure allows a Periodontist to reposition existing gum tissue over receded areas without the need for sutures. It offers a faster recovery time and is a popular alternative to traditional gum grafting (Harvard Health, 2024).

🦷 Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) Therapy

PRF therapy involves using the patient’s own blood to create a fibrin matrix, rich in growth factors, which is applied to receding gums. This promotes natural healing and regenerates lost gum tissue.

Preventing Further Gum Recession

The best way to protect your gums is through good oral hygiene and lifestyle habits:

✅ Brush gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
✅ Floss daily to remove plaque build-up between teeth.
✅ Visit your dentist or Periodontist regularly for professional cleanings.
✅ Quit smoking to improve gum health.
✅ Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth, as bruxism can contribute to gum recession.

Book a Periodontal Consultation at Surbiton Dental

If you’re experiencing gum recession, sensitivity, or discomfort, don’t wait for the condition to worsen. At Surbiton Dental, our expert Periodontist provides advanced gum care and treatment options tailored to your needs.

📞 Contact us today to book your periodontal consultation!