How to Treat Gum Recession

Want to know how to treat gum recession, but you do not know your options? You are not alone. Lets face it. If you are asking this question then you are at some point in the progression of periodontal gum disease, which is the most common cause of gum recession. Thankfully treating gum recession is a possibility, but first you MUST understand the cause of gum recession.

The Cause of Periodontal Gum Disease

There is generally one main cause of periodontal gum disease - 22 common bacteria that are found in the mouth. Everyone has these bactera, however, not everyone has them under control. When these bacteria flourish uncontrolled, then harden on the tooth structure. They emit a toxin that literally eats away at the flesh. These toxins cause the gum tissue to erode away, leaving supporting bone structure exposed. Eventually, if untreated, the teeth and supporting bone structure deteriorate as well. At this point action must be taken, before it gets worse. There are a few options for treatment for gum recession.

Gum Tissue Surgery

When there is gum recession and sensitive roots are exposed it is sometimes necessary to performa a gingival graft, or gum graft. Soft tissue is usally taken from the top of the mouth and then surgically attached to where the tooth root is exposed. Often before the gum flap is attached, periodontal scaling and root planning. This deep cleaning is performed in order to remove the hardened bacteria and prevent further damage from toxin producing bacteria. This is the source of the problem. So gingival tissue grafting surgery is one of the way to combat receding gums. This is a more radical approach and will cost more money and perhaps be accompanied with discomfort or pain.

Receding Gums Drug Treatment

Another common treatment for gum recession is the use of antibiotics. These drugs are targeting the source of the problem from within. If the bacteria is killed, and thus controlled, then the gum recession will stop. The problem is, however, that antibiotics cannot be taken forever. They have serious side effects on the body. Furthermore, much of the bacteria, initially in the form of plaque has hardened onto the tooth and bone structure and may need to be scraped away by scaling and root planing. Often receding gums surgery and gum recession drug treatment are utilized simultaneously.

Natural Remedy for Gum Recession

Natural remedies for gum recession are probably the safest and longer-lasting solutions when dealing with gingival recession and gum disease. However, remember that just because something is natural does not mean that it works. Many so called "natural" products that you buy at a natural food store or in "natural" isle of the store contain harmful ingredients that may actually do more harm than good. Mouth washes can leave you with dry mouth and irritated gums. Furthermore they wash away, not maintaining a constant control of the bacteria deep in your gums and teeth. Toothpastes are the same and are washed away after we use them. Government warning labels tells us not to swallow the ingredients becauase they are toxic.

Not only must a natural remedy kill bacteria it must also be able to stay in constant contact with the bacteria. I'm shocked at how quickly our society has forgotten tried and true methods for oral hygiene. It has been known that botanical oils of peppermint, spearmint, and almond have antibacterial properties when in right amounts. What is amazing about botanical oils is that they can actually get down into the gum line and stay there. You do not have to rinse it away nor do you have to worry about toxic results. Some people for many years have brushed with the proper combination of these oils and have been able to keep bacteria is check. By using this natural alternative they were able to eliminate or control many problems: chronic bad breath (halitosis), bleeding gums, mouth sores, dry mouth, swollen gums, gum infection, and receding gums. So in order to treat gum recession you must kill bacteria. This natural solutions seems to do the job and leave you feeling safe and smiling.