Gum Recession and Dental Crown Options for Better Oral Health

Q: Gum Recession and Dental Crown Options for Better Oral Health

Hello： Indeed, if the material of the dentures is of poor quality, it can lead to gum recession. <br>It is recommended that you first remove the existing uncomfortable dental bridge before proceeding with an evaluation. <br>Wishing you safety and good health.

The gap between the edge of the braces and the gum tissue is getting larger?

Hello, Doctor.
Two years ago, I experienced gum recession (about 2mm gap) around my front teeth.
Without any cavities, I visited an old dental clinic near my home.
The dentist directly suggested grinding down the teeth to fit crowns for a quicker solution, without explaining the quality of the prosthetics (just stating that each crown costs 5,000).
Therefore, I was unaware of the material of my crowns.
Three teeth were ground down at once, and the crowns were formed as a single unit, making them inseparable.
No X-rays or other examinations were performed.
Although I had concerns, I accepted the dentist's recommendation.
Currently, the gum recession between my teeth has started again.
Despite improving my oral hygiene, I notice significant swelling in my gums in the morning.
During follow-up visits, the dentist only disinfected and prescribed broad-spectrum antibiotics.
After reading some information, I feel that the previous treatment was somewhat hasty.

My questions are: If the recession continues and the quality of the crowns is poor, will I eventually need to replace them? Are there alternative treatment options available? Additionally, could you please advise if all-ceramic crowns can provide results comparable to metal crowns with a gold inner core? Thank you.

Ayu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/09/23

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry

Hello: Indeed, if the material of the dentures is of poor quality, it can lead to gum recession.
It is recommended that you first remove the existing uncomfortable dental bridge before proceeding with an evaluation.
Wishing you safety and good health.

Reply Date: 2016/09/23

More Info

Gum recession and the options for dental crowns are significant concerns in maintaining oral health. Your experience with gum recession and the subsequent dental crown placement raises several important points that deserve careful consideration.

Understanding Gum Recession
Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue surrounding the teeth pulls back, exposing more of the tooth or the tooth's root. This condition can lead to sensitivity, increased risk of decay, and aesthetic concerns. Factors contributing to gum recession include periodontal disease, aggressive brushing, genetic predisposition, hormonal changes, and tobacco use. In your case, the gum recession you experienced, particularly around your front teeth, could be exacerbated by the dental crown placement if not done with proper consideration of the underlying gum health.

Dental Crown Options
1. Material Considerations: The choice of dental crown material is crucial. Common materials include porcelain, metal, and porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM). Full porcelain crowns offer excellent aesthetics and can mimic the appearance of natural teeth, making them a popular choice for front teeth. However, they may not be as durable as metal crowns, especially in areas subject to heavy chewing forces. Metal crowns, particularly those with gold, are known for their strength and longevity but may not provide the same aesthetic appeal.

2. Crown Design and Fit: The fact that your crowns were made as a three-unit bridge without individual crowns raises concerns about fit and hygiene. A poorly fitting crown can lead to plaque accumulation, which may exacerbate gum recession. If the crowns do not fit well, they can create spaces that trap food and bacteria, leading to further gum issues.

3. Long-term Considerations: If you are experiencing ongoing gum recession, it is essential to address the underlying causes. This might involve improving oral hygiene practices, using specific dental products, or even considering periodontal treatments. If the recession continues, it may be necessary to replace the crowns with better-fitting options or to explore other restorative options.

Treatment Options for Gum Recession
If gum recession persists, several treatment options are available:
- Scaling and Root Planing: This deep cleaning procedure can help remove plaque and tartar from below the gum line, promoting gum health.

- Gum Grafting: In cases of significant recession, a gum graft may be performed to restore lost tissue. This involves taking tissue from another part of the mouth and attaching it to the affected area.

- Orthodontic Treatment: If misalignment contributes to gum recession, orthodontic treatment may help reposition teeth and improve gum health.

Comparing Crown Materials
Regarding your question about the effectiveness of all-ceramic crowns compared to metal crowns with gold, both have their advantages:
- All-Ceramic Crowns: These crowns are highly aesthetic and can be designed to match the color of your natural teeth. They are ideal for front teeth but may not be as strong as metal crowns, especially in the back teeth where chewing forces are greater.

- Metal Crowns with Gold: These crowns are incredibly durable and can withstand significant chewing forces. They are less likely to chip or break compared to ceramic crowns. However, their metallic appearance may not be suitable for visible areas.

In conclusion, if you are experiencing ongoing gum recession and have concerns about the quality of your dental crowns, it is advisable to seek a second opinion from a qualified dentist or periodontist. They can assess your gum health, the fit of your crowns, and recommend appropriate treatments to address both the recession and the need for potentially replacing your crowns. Regular dental check-ups and maintaining good oral hygiene practices are essential in preventing further complications.

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