How Composite Bonding Can Be Used to Protect Teeth After Gum Recession
Gums recede for many reasons. Trauma caused by over-brushing, bruxism, and gum picking all lead to gum recession. Age too has also been linked to receding gums, for instance, a study in the US found that 71% of people from age 50 to 59 displayed some gum recession. In contrast, just 38% of people aged 30-39 showed some degree of gum recession.
When gums pull away from teeth not only does this result in the teeth appearing longer than normal, but it also deprives the teeth roots of the protective layer of gingival tissue. That means that unless you do something about it, in the short term your smile will suffer, but in the long term, the affected teeth could begin to decay at the root.
Receded Gums do not Grow Back
It is important that you seek the aid of a dentist if you notice that your gums have receded. Once receded, gums do not grow back. Consequently, by leaving them untreated, you are inviting in tooth decay. Gum recession is also an indicator of periodontitis as bacteria cause the gums to pull away from your teeth. Supporting bone tissue too is also destroyed causing teeth to eventually loosen and fall out if nothing is nothing is done.
If you notice that your gums are receding, book a dental service right away.
Composite Bonding Can Cover Up Recession
In severe cases, a dentist will recommend gum grafting or gum contouring as these measures are more permanent. However, in minor cases, such as when only one or two teeth are affected, composite resin can be applied to the area where the gum has receded. This serves two purposes. The resin covers up the exposed root area, protecting it from tooth decay, and it also restores the tooth's natural length so that the tooth doesn't appear overly long.
Although standard composite resin is tooth-coloured, gum-coloured resin is available to cover up the areas where gums have receded. This provides a natural-looking layer of protection. However, composite bonding is only a temporary solution and does not in any way deal with the underlying causes of gum recession, such as gum disease or overzealous brushing. You should first deal with these issues first before opting to cover the area with composite bonding.
Receded gums are more than just an aesthetic problem. They are a symptom of gum disease. This is why it is important you see a dentist if you notice that your gums have receded. Once the cause has been determined, you can then think about restoring your gum line, either with composite bonding or one of the more permanent solutions.
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