West Vancouver Laser Gum Treatments/Gum Surgery
In addition to gum reshaping, which removes excess gum tissue to eliminate a ‘gummy smile’, we also offer additive treatments for lost gum tissue. This may be required for patients who have begun losing gum tissue due to gum disease or damage.
The loss of gum tissue can cause sensitivity and root decay. If you are aware of gum tissue recession, sensitivity, or have been told you need fillings along the gumline, this treatment could be right for you.
What can be done to create healthier gums?
Scaling and Root Planing: Treating gum disease by cleaning thoroughly between the gums, teeth and down to the roots. This is done when gums start to pull away from the teeth and tartar has formed. This treatment can be done on it’s own, or in conjunction with one of the following reparative gum procedures.
Pinhole Gum Lifting: This is a minimally invasive surgery, where the gum tissue is lifted and carefully pushed into place, creating a higher gumline.
Connective Tissue Grafting: In this procedure, gum tissue is taken from the roof of the mouth and attached to the area where recession is present. Artificial tissue can also be used, eliminating the need to use your own tissue.
Importance of Healthy Gums: Gums keep teeth healthy and strong. Maintaining healthy gums helps to reduce the risk of tooth loss, eliminates pain from abscesses, prevents gingivitis, prevents loss of bone structure and reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Recognizing signs of gum recession
When you have gum disease and start to lose gum tissue, you may notice your teeth become very sensitive. This is because the gums are pulling back and exposing more of the tooth structure. Receding gums can be problematic and may prevent you from smiling with confidence.
Some of the most common signs of gum recession include: having very sensitive teeth; gums pulling away from the root of the tooth; teeth looking longer than normal; feeling a notch forming near the gum line; getting food stuck around the gum line easily. You should schedule an appointment with Dr. Dhillon and Dr. Seddon if you notice any of these signs of gum disease and gum recession.
Treatment Options
Dr. Dhillon and Dr. Seddon offer several of the most effective gum recession prevention and treatment options, so you can restore your beautiful smile. Dr. Dhillon and Dr. Seddon may recommend:
- Gum grafting
- Periodontal therapy
- Pinhole Surgical Technique (PST™)
- Using a soft-bristled or electric toothbrush
Gum Recession Surgery in West Vancouver, BC
If you are noticing symptoms of gum disease, such as loose teeth, receding gums, or sensitive teeth, you should seek treatment with Dr. Dhillon and Dr. Seddon as soon as possible. One of signs of progressing gum disease is gum tissue that is pulling away from the tooth structure. If you have gum disease, you may also experience inflammation of the gums, gum pain, and some tooth sensitivity. Getting early treatment is essential for your oral health.
Treating Sensitive Teeth with the Right Gum Recession Treatment
If you have very sensitive teeth or notice your gums are pulling away, you should seek treatment as soon as possible. Dr. Dhillon and Dr. Seddon may recommend periodontal therapy or gum grafting to restore your oral health.
The treatment Dr. Dhillon and Dr. Seddon recommend for you will depend on the cause, which will be addressed during your initial oral evaluation. You can also learn how to take care of your oral health with the right tooth brushing techniques during your consultation. If gum disease is wearing down the gum tissue, Dr. Dhillon and Dr. Seddon may recommend scaling and root planing therapy or gum disease treatment to restore your oral health.
Benefits of the PST™ procedure
Some of the key benefits of the Pinhole Surgical Technique (PST™) include:
- Minimally-invasive alternative to traditional gum surgery
- No bleeding or swelling involved
- Provides immediate cosmetic benefits
- Corrects gum recession without surgery
- No sutures or incisions involved
- Fast healing and recovery time
- Can treat multiple teeth in a single visit
- Creates a more attractive smile
PINHOLE SURGICAL TECHNIQUE™ FOR GINGIVAL RECESSION
If you are noticing signs of gingival recession and are ready for treatment, Dr. Dhillon and Dr. Seddon may recommend the Pinhole Surgical Technique™ to restore your gum line. This innovative technique does not require making incisions and is a minimally-invasive alternative to gum grafting.
The procedure was invented by a dentist and can be very effective for treating receding gums. If you have lost gum tissue because of gum disease, using the wrong brushing technique, or because of bruxism, you may be a good candidate for this procedure.
KEY BENEFITS OF THE PINHOLE SURGICAL TECHNIQUE™
PST™ is an attractive alternative to the traditional gum grafting procedure because there is no swelling or bleeding involved. Dr. Dhillon and Dr. Seddon will not need to make any incisions or cut away healthy gum tissue to perform this procedure. The technique delivers immediate cosmetic benefits so you will see results after your visit. We can treat multiple teeth at the same time, so multiple office visits may not be needed. This procedure corrects gingival recession to create a healthier and more attractive smile.
Common Causes of Gum Recession
Here is a breakdown of some common causes of gum recession:
- Gum disease – an active infection in the mouth can destroy gum tissue which leads to gum recession
- Genetics – studies show that some people are genetically-predisposed to developing gum disease
- Tooth brushing technique – aggressive brushing or using the wrong type of toothbrush could be wearing down your gums
- Poor dental care practices – brushing and flossing your teeth regularly can prevent plaque and tartar buildup
- Hormonal shifts – fluctuating hormonal levels can affect the gum tissues and contribute to gum recession
- Using tobacco products – smoking and chewing tobacco can increase plaque formation and cause the gums to recede
- Bruxism – if you grind and clench your teeth, you may be at risk for developing gum recession
- Misalignment – crooked or misaligned teeth can put pressure on certain areas of the mouth and cause gum recession
- Body piercings – any body jewelry around the lips and tongue can irritate the tissue and cause gum recession
- Orthodontic treatment – shifting teeth during orthodontic treatment can cause gum recession
If you are concerned about the effects of gum disease and gingival recession, schedule your consultation with Dr. Dhillon and Dr. Seddon today!
