Addressing Gum Recession (Gingival Recession) ― Protecting Appearance and Health
What is Gingival Recession?
You may not be familiar with the term “gingival recession.”
Simply put, it refers to the condition where the gums thin and recede.
It is said that Asian ethnicities, including Japanese people, are more prone to gum recession compared to Westerners because the bone and gum tissue surrounding their teeth tend to be thinner.
Therefore, many people experience gum recession with age, which can affect both appearance and function.
Why Do Gums Recede?
The main causes of gum recession are as follows:
- Periodontal disease and chronic inflammation
- Excessive brushing pressure
- Poor bite alignment or misaligned teeth
These factors cause the gums to recede, exposing tooth roots, which can lead to sensitivity and changes in appearance.
Furthermore, decreased saliva production due to aging adds to the concern.
Saliva’s “buffering capacity” diminishes, making it harder to recover from acidic conditions. This increases tooth erosion and, combined with gum recession, heightens the risk of cavities.
👉 In fact, I myself have always had very thin gums. Combined with brushing too hard, this caused my gums to recede, leaving me suffering from tooth sensitivity for many years.
From this experience, I truly understand firsthand how gum recession not only affects appearance and health but also places a significant burden on daily life.
The Option of Root Coverage Surgery
One regenerative treatment option for gum recession is “root coverage surgery.”
This procedure surgically transplants and regenerates gum tissue to cover receded areas.
After undergoing this surgery with a periodontist, my sensitivity improved dramatically, and I now live comfortably.
In recent years, regenerative therapy techniques have advanced, with more effective methods being researched and practiced.
Summary
- Gum recession is a condition where gums thin and recede; Asians are at higher risk
- Main causes: Periodontal disease, brushing pressure, bite alignment
- Combined with age-related saliva reduction, this further increases the risk of cavities and sensitivity.
- Improvement is possible through regenerative therapies like root coverage surgery.
👉 I myself struggled with gum recession and sensitivity for many years and have personal experience with root coverage surgery.
As a result, my symptoms improved, allowing me to live comfortably, which made me strongly appreciate the value of this treatment.
If you feel like your gums are receding or are troubled by sensitivity, please consider consulting us.