Gum recession is the process in which the gum tissue surrounding the teeth starts to wear away or pull back. This results in more of the tooth or tooth root being exposed, making the tooth appear longer and causing tooth sensitivity. When gum recession occurs, gaps, or “pockets,” form between the teeth and the gum line. These pockets are good areas for disease-causing bacteria to build up and cause severe damage if left untreated. It could even result in tooth loss.
One possible treatment for gum recession is gum regeneration. If the bone supporting the teeth has been destroyed, this procedure can help to regenerate lost bone and tissue. For this procedure, the dentist will fold back the gum tissue and remove all bacteria. A regenerative material, such as a membrane, graft tissue, or tissue-stimulating protein, will then be placed in the area. This material will encourage the body to naturally regenerate bone and tissue. Once the regenerative material is placed, the gum tissue will be secured over the root of the tooth or teeth.
This procedure can also be done with lasers. Using lasers offers the benefits of killing bacteria more thoroughly than with traditional surgery and results in less bleeding. Healing also occurs more quickly with laser surgery. The laser energy stimulates stem cells in the gum tissues to form new connective tissues, collagen, and bone.