Q.
hi there I have a question regarding gum disease and its effects. you may have to correct me if any of this is wrong to confirm with me- I know it’s called gum disease because its primary problem areas lie with the gums, inflammation, bleeding and gum destruction. my first question is 1) is there a difference between gum recession and gum destruction? and 2) can ‘gum’ disease affect the teeth? the problem is that I think my gums have receded/been destroyed if there is a difference, but tiny gaps have started to appear between my teeth not where the gum was but most of the way down the sides of my teeth. if these are both signs of gum disease what can I do to stop and reverse the process or id this not possible?
hi there I have a question regarding gum disease and its effects. you may have to correct me if any of this is wrong to confirm with me- I know it’s called gum disease because its primary problem areas lie with the gums, inflammation, bleeding and gum destruction. my first question is 1) is there a difference between gum recession and gum destruction? and 2) can ‘gum’ disease affect the teeth? the problem is that I think my gums have receded/been destroyed if there is a difference, but tiny gaps have started to appear between my teeth not where the gum was but most of the way down the sides of my teeth. if these are both signs of gum disease what can I do to stop and reverse the process or id this not possible?
A.
Gum disease is an inflammatory reaction to the presence of plaque that in some individuals results in bone loss. Gum recession can be caused by gum disease (gums shrinking following the bone underneath also shrinking) but there are other causes. For example, many people with thin gums and too vigorous brushing technique or with the habit of grinding their teeth can develop gum recession even having healthy gums. Similarly gaps between the teeth can be related to gum recession but also to other factors such as changes in the position of the teeth. Visit your dentist to diagnose the cause of your recessions and find out whether you have gum disease so that you can receive adequate advice and/or treatment to stop the process that of course should be possible.
Gum disease is an inflammatory reaction to the presence of plaque that in some individuals results in bone loss. Gum recession can be caused by gum disease (gums shrinking following the bone underneath also shrinking) but there are other causes. For example, many people with thin gums and too vigorous brushing technique or with the habit of grinding their teeth can develop gum recession even having healthy gums. Similarly gaps between the teeth can be related to gum recession but also to other factors such as changes in the position of the teeth. Visit your dentist to diagnose the cause of your recessions and find out whether you have gum disease so that you can receive adequate advice and/or treatment to stop the process that of course should be possible.
Dr Jose Zurdo
Mall Dental Care
Pall Mall, Manchester, M2 4DU
Web: www.malldental.com Tel: 0161 830 7300
