Gingival recession
Gingival Recession
Gingival recession, also known as receding gums, is a condition in which the gums pull back from the tooth surface, exposing the root surfaces of the teeth. It is a common dental problem that can lead to tooth sensitivity and other oral health issues.
Pronunciation
Gingival recession is pronounced as /dʒɪnˈdʒaɪvəl rɪˈsɛʃən/.
Etymology
The term "gingival" is derived from the Latin word "gingiva," which means gum, while "recession" comes from the Latin word "recessio," which means a going back or withdrawal.
Causes
Gingival recession can be caused by a number of factors, including:
- Periodontal disease: This is the most common cause of gingival recession. It is a bacterial infection that destroys gum tissue and the supporting bone that holds your teeth in place.
- Aggressive tooth brushing: Brushing your teeth too hard or the wrong way can cause the enamel on your teeth to wear away and your gums to recede.
- Poor oral health: Inadequate brushing, flossing, and rinsing with antibacterial mouthwash makes it easy for plaque to turn into calculus (tartar) — a hard substance that can only be removed by a professional dental cleaning — and lead to gum recession.
Treatment
Treatment for gingival recession depends on the cause of the gum recession. If the recession is due to aggressive brushing, a change in brushing habits and toothbrush can often help. If the cause is periodontal disease, treatment might involve a deep cleaning procedure called scaling and root planing. In severe cases, surgical procedures such as a gum graft might be necessary.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Gingival recession
- Wikipedia's article - Gingival recession
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