Can Gum Recession from Periodontal Disease Be Reversed?

Q: Can Gum Recession from Periodontal Disease Be Reversed?

Hello： 1. <br>The assessment must consider the degree of gum recession. <br>If the recession is above the mucogingival junction, there is still a chance for surgical grafting to remedy the situation; otherwise, the opportunity for correction is limited. <br>2. <br>Gingival curett

Gum recession

Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask if gum recession caused by periodontal disease can still be remedied through surgery or other methods.
Additionally, when performing subgingival scaling, is anesthesia not required? The dentist did not administer anesthesia, and I experienced pain, followed by headaches, vomiting, and dizziness after returning home.
I have always received anesthesia during previous dental visits—why was it not used at the medical center? Is anesthesia an out-of-pocket expense? Thank you for your help.

PING, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/10/31

Dr. Wu Jinjun reply Dentistry

Hello: 1.
The assessment must consider the degree of gum recession.
If the recession is above the mucogingival junction, there is still a chance for surgical grafting to remedy the situation; otherwise, the opportunity for correction is limited.
2.
Gingival curettage can be performed based on the patient's pain tolerance, and the decision to administer anesthesia is not mandatory.
If the treatment process is painful, the patient can request anesthesia, as health insurance covers dental anesthesia.
Dr.
Wu Jin-jun, Director of Dentistry, Hsinchu Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan.

Reply Date: 2006/10/31

More Info

Gum recession, particularly when caused by periodontal disease, is a common dental issue that can lead to various complications, including increased tooth sensitivity, aesthetic concerns, and even tooth loss if left untreated. The good news is that while gum recession cannot be completely reversed, there are several treatment options available that can help manage the condition and improve the health of your gums.

Treatment Options for Gum Recession
1. Non-Surgical Treatments:
- Scaling and Root Planing: This deep cleaning procedure removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line and smooths the tooth roots, which can help the gums reattach to the teeth.

- Antimicrobial Treatments: Your dentist may prescribe antimicrobial mouth rinses or gels to reduce bacteria and inflammation in the gums.

2. Surgical Treatments:
- Gum Grafting: This is a common surgical procedure where tissue is taken from another part of your mouth (or a donor source) and grafted onto the area of gum recession. This can help cover exposed roots and restore the gum line.

- Pinhole Surgical Technique: A minimally invasive procedure that involves making a small hole in the gum tissue and using special instruments to reposition the gums over the exposed roots.

3. Regenerative Procedures: In some cases, dentists may use regenerative techniques that involve placing a membrane or graft to encourage the growth of new gum tissue.

Pain Management During Procedures
Regarding your experience with the lack of anesthesia during a dental procedure, it is important to note that pain management practices can vary between dental offices and procedures. While many dentists routinely administer local anesthesia for procedures like scaling and root planing, some may opt not to, depending on the patient's comfort level and the extent of the procedure.
If you experienced significant pain during the procedure, it is crucial to communicate this with your dentist. They can adjust their approach for future treatments to ensure your comfort. Additionally, if you experienced headaches, nausea, or dizziness afterward, these could be stress-related responses to the pain or anxiety during the procedure.

Cost of Anesthesia
As for the cost of anesthesia, it can vary based on the dental practice and the specific procedure being performed. Some dental offices may include the cost of anesthesia in the overall treatment fee, while others may charge separately. It is always a good idea to discuss costs upfront with your dental provider to avoid any surprises.

Conclusion
In summary, while gum recession due to periodontal disease cannot be fully reversed, there are effective treatments available to manage the condition and improve gum health. Surgical options like gum grafting can significantly enhance the appearance and function of your gums. If you have concerns about pain management during procedures, do not hesitate to discuss these with your dentist to ensure a more comfortable experience in the future. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene practices are essential in preventing further gum recession and maintaining overall oral health.

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