Removable dentures are one of the most commonly used options for replacing missing natural teeth. If your dentist has recently suggested removable dentures for tooth replacement, you will surely have questions about this treatment option. In this regard, one of the most frequently asked questions about removable dentures is whether they can be used with receding gums. If you are also looking for an answer to this question, you have come to the right place. So, read on to find out the answer to this question so that you can make an informed decision about this tooth replacement option.
Receding Gums: Causes And Treatment Options?
Gum recession is a pathological process in which the gums start to move away from their normal attachment position on the teeth. Gum recession can occur due to a variety of reasons. Some of these are given below:
- Gum Disease – the harmful bacteria inside inflamed gums release toxins that irritate the gums. This results in the movement of the gums away from their normal position.
- Physical Irritation – physical factors such as using excessive force during brushing or too much use of toothpicks can also cause gum recession.
- Overhanging Restoration – if a filling overhangs and touches the gum tissues, it can cause irritation and recession of the gums.
- Trauma – an accidental injury to the gums can also cause their recession.
Which Is Better, An Implant Or A Bridge, If You Have Poor Gums?
Dental professionals recommend against getting any type of tooth replacement while there is underlying gum inflammation. This is because dental bridges are dependent on the supporting healthy teeth for their support. If there is gum disease, the teeth may already be mobile resulting in the pre-mature dislodgment of the bridge. Similarly, dental implants rely on the health of the bone tissue for the support. Again, if there is gum disease, it may have already caused extensive bone tissue damage. Hence, dentists always treat gum disease before considering any type of tooth replacement.
What Causes Receding Gums On One Tooth?
Typically, gum recession occurs on all the teeth. However, there are certain cases when it can also occur in isolated teeth. Some of the reasons for isolated gum recession are:
- Trauma to the affected tooth
- Misaligned tooth which receives excessive force during brushing
- Using too much toothpick
Regardless of the location of gum recession, it should never be taken lightly and immediate dental assistance shoul be sought.
What’s The Best Solution For Teeth Gap And Receding Gums?
Teeth gaps and receding gums are two separate issues. Teeth gaps typically appear when there is excess space in the jaws than needed for accommodating all the teeth in alignment. Alternatively, if a tooth is lost prematurely, the neighbouring teeth move towards the vacant space, creating extra spacing between all the teeth. Regarding the solution of teeth gaps, dentists utilise various options. These are:
- Orthodontic treatment with braces of Invisalign aligners
- Using veneers to mask teeth gaps cosmetically
- Cosmetic bonding for aesthetically masking teeth stains
For receding gums, the following options are available:
- Periodontal therapy, including scaling and root planning
- Gum grafting
Can Cosmetic Dentistry Fix Receding Gums?
Cosmetic dentistry can help in restoring the aesthetic flaws caused by gum recession. However, other procedures need to be performed to treat the underlying cause. For example, if gum recession is because of periodontal inflammation, your dentist will remove the plaque and tartar deposits through scaling and planning and then treat the cosmetic issue. In some cases, treatment of the underlying issues restores gum health and attachment. On the other hand, when there is severe gum recession, a gum grafting procedure is performed to correct the optimal length of the gums.
Can Fake Teeth Chew Just As Good As Real Teeth?
There is nothing as good as one’s natural teeth. However, this does not mean tooth replacement options do not restore one’s ability to chew food. Instead, it depends on the type of tooth replacement. For example, removable dentures, especially complete dentures, rely solely on the underlying bone and soft tissues for their support and retention. Hence, they do not effectively restore one’s ability to chew food. On the other hand, dental implants are inserted directly into the jawbone, like natural teeth. Hence, they optimally restore one’s ability to chew food efficiently. In fact, dental implants are the next best thing for your natural teeth.
What Happens If Your Gums Recede Too Far?
The most significant complication of gum recession is the exposure of the tooth roots, which are more vulnerable to sensitivity and decay than the tooth crowns. So, if the gums recede too far, it can cause root sensitivity and decay.
Will My Teeth Fall Out From Receding Gums?
Gum recession is an indication of underlying gum disease. In the advanced stages of gum disease, there is extensive bone loss, resulting in the teeth becoming loose in their sockets. If this condition is not corrected in a timely manner, the teeth may start falling off.
What Are The Pros And Cons Of Having Dentures?
Like all tooth replacement options, removable dentures have their own merits and demerits. These are:
Pros of Dentures
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- Cost-effective
- Simple fabrication technique
- Repairable can be used to replace single, multiple, or all missing teeth
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Cons of Dentures
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- Service life is limited
- Can fracture easily if dropped
- Can get warped if exposed to sudden extreme temperature changes
Finding an excellent removable denture specialist in your area can be difficult. But, if you reside in Hornchurch, Harrow Dental Practice is the best place to visit. Whether you need removable dentures or teeth whitening for your stained teeth, we provide all the services under one roof. So, contact us today and request an appointment so that we can give you a healthy, lasting, and adorable smile.
