How do I Know if I Need Periodontal Therapy or Gum Grafting?

Determining if you need periodontal therapy or gum grafting involves recognizing specific physical signs and undergoing a professional evaluation.

Common Signs You May Need Treatment:

• Increased Sensitivity: You may feel sharp discomfort when consuming hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks because the protective enamel has given way to porous root surfaces.
• Visible Changes to Teeth: Your teeth may appear longer than usual, or you might notice a visible “notch” at the gumline, which indicates root exposure.
• Inflammation Indicators: Red, swollen, or bleeding gums during brushing and flossing, along with persistent bad breath, are signals that bacterial inflammation is present.

The Professional Evaluation Process:

1. Periodontal Probing: A dentist will use a specialized tool called a periodontal probe to measure the depth of gum recession and how far the tissue has pulled away from the teeth.
2. Medical History Review: Factors such as smoking habits, medications, and conditions like diabetes are evaluated, as they can influence gum health and healing.
3. Dental X-rays: These are used to check underlying bone levels and provide a complete picture of your oral health.
4. Identifying Causes: A professional can determine if the recession is caused by periodontal disease, aggressive brushing, genetics, or misaligned teeth, which helps dictate whether general periodontal therapy or a surgical gum graft is required.

• Gum Grafting BC: Complete Guide for Gum Recession Treatment