Why Are My Gums Receding All of a Sudden?

Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue that surrounds the teeth pulls back, exposing some of the teeth. When this occurs, pockets form between the teeth and the gumline, which makes it easy for bacteria to accumulate. When left untreated, the supporting tissue and bone structure of the teeth can become damaged. This can lead to tooth loss.

Unfortunately, many patients don’t even know they have any recession. The first sign is usually tooth sensitivity. Gum recession is something that should never be ignored. If you suspect that your gums are receding, schedule an exam at Premier Periodontics with our experienced periodontal specialists at one of our convenient locations in Bellevue, Everett, Kirkland, Mercer Island, Olympia, or Redmond, WA.

Reasons for receding gums

There are many reasons why gums may recede, including:

1. Periodontal disease: This bacterial gum infection destroys gum tissue and the bone that supports the teeth. It is the main cause of gum recession.

2. Genetics: Some people are more susceptible to gum disease, regardless of how well they care for their teeth.

3. Poor oral hygiene: Inadequate brushing, flossing, or rinsing with mouthwash can make plaque turn into tartar. This buildup on and between teeth can only be removed at a routine dental cleaning at Premier Periodontics. When it is left untreated, gum recession occurs. If you aggressively brush your teeth, it can cause enamel to wear away, which can lead to gum recession too. Proper oral hygiene helps ensure your oral health stays at its best at all times.

4. Changes in hormones: Fluctuations in hormones, like during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause, can make the gums more sensitive and more likely to develop either gum disease or gum recession.

5. Crooked teeth or poorly-aligned bites: When your teeth don’t come together properly, too much force is placed on the gums. This promotes your gums to recede.

Who is a candidate for gum recession treatment?

The Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique (PST) offered at Premier Periodontics may be a good option for those suffering from:

• Teeth that are sensitive to temperature

• Teeth that look longer than they did before

• Changes in the aesthetics of a smile

• Dark spaces near the gums

• Yellowing or discoloration near the gums

It is ideal for patients who don’t want to go through gum grafting or for those who need many different areas treated in their mouths. This procedure can treat the entire mouth in just three or four hours. Our periodontal team can help you decide if you could benefit from this periodontal treatment.

What is the Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique?

At Premier Periodontics, we use innovative procedures to treat receding gums. One of our most minimally invasive procedures is the Chao Pinhole Surgical Technique. The PST will gently move any receded gum tissue to a better place where it covers any exposed tooth roots.

First, we numb the area with local anesthesia. Next, a small pinhole-sized opening is made into the gums. This entry point is used to loosen the gums and to move them back to where they belong. Returning the gumline to a better place protects at-risk surfaces and quickly restores a smile. Thin pieces of collagen are used between the teeth and gums to hold the gumline in place as it heals.

Our periodontal specialists are trained in this advanced pinhole surgical technique. They would love to help you to decide if this no-incision, no-suture treatment is the best treatment option for your gum recession.

Learn more about gum recession treatment today

The best way to treat receding gums is proper oral hygiene that takes care of your teeth and gums in the best way possible. However, even with this care, some patient’s genetics make them more likely to suffer gum recession. When you suspect your gums have receded, our periodontal specialists at Premier Periodontics can help. Contact one of our convenient locations in Bellevue, Everett, Kirkland, Mercer Island, Olympia, or Redmond, WA to schedule an appointment to learn more about gum recession treatment today.