The portion of a tooth that is supposed to be seen is known as the crown, while the portion that is covered by the gums and jawbone is referred to as the root. If your gums recede, part of the root section is exposed. Because this material is naturally weaker and more sensitive than the crown, this leads to discomfort as well as oral health risks. You can add these concerns to other problems with recession, including unwanted smile changes and a greater risk for gum disease.
Through a soft tissue graft, our practice can restore your smile and cover the portions of teeth that have been revealed by gum recession. That coverage keeps sensitive areas protected so that you have less discomfort when you eat and drink. It also helps us restore the looks of teeth that may look long and uneven due to their root exposure. Beyond this, a grafting procedure can lead to a more symmetrical smile, and it can make defending against the onset of gum disease easier.
Recession is a frustrating cosmetic issue and a potential cause of tooth sensitivity. It can also be a sign that you are already struggling with gum disease. If an infection is not treated in time, you can experience permanent health complications that raise your risk for tooth loss and serious general health conditions. We can evaluate you to see if scaling and root planing can reverse your condition, or if you need to start care to manage periodontal disease.
For more information on soft tissue grafts and how they address tooth sensitivity, call our Dallas, TX periodontal treatment office at 214-443-0876.