Periodontal · Since 1987
Gum Recession Treatment in Wilmington, NC
Receding gums expose root surface, which is softer than enamel, sensitive to cold, and prone to decay. Recession does not reverse on its own.
About gum treatment
Causes vary: gum disease, aggressive brushing, grinding, thin tissue you were born with, or a tooth sitting outside the bone. Treatment depends on which one it is, so identifying the cause comes first.
Mild recession is often managed by changing technique and treating the underlying gum disease. Advanced recession may need a graft to cover the root and rebuild tissue thickness.
How it works
- Periodontal chartingSix-point measurements and recession measurements per tooth. This is the baseline.
- Cause identificationBrushing technique, grinding, occlusion and gum disease each leave a different pattern.
- Treat the active diseaseScaling and root planing if there is periodontal infection.
- Grafting where indicatedSoft tissue grafting to cover exposed root and thicken the tissue.
- MaintenanceA shorter recall interval to keep it stable.
Recovery and aftercare
Switch to a soft brush and stop scrubbing. If you grind, wear the guard. After grafting, no brushing on the site for the period we specify, a prescribed rinse, and soft food while it heals.
Cost and coverage
Scaling and root planing is usually covered by dental plans at a percentage per quadrant. Grafting is priced per site. We stage the work when it makes sense so it is manageable rather than a single large bill.
You may be a candidate if
- Teeth that look longer than they used to
- Sharp sensitivity to cold air or cold drinks
- A notch you can feel at the gum line with your fingernail
- Gums that bleed or look red at the margin
- Root surfaces visible when you smile
Gum Recession Treatment by town
We see patients from across New Hanover, Brunswick, Pender and Onslow counties.
In their own words
Hear from Dr. Josh Winneberger
Dr. Winneberger on getting you numb without you noticing, and helping nervous patients get comfortable in the chair.
Questions we get asked
Will my gums grow back?
Not on their own. Recession is only reversed by grafting. Stopping the cause prevents further loss, which is the first priority.
Is a gum graft painful?
There is discomfort for several days, mostly at the donor site if tissue is taken from your palate. Modern techniques often use donor material instead, which is more comfortable.
Why are my teeth so sensitive?
Exposed root has no enamel over it, and the dentine underneath transmits cold directly. Treating recession and using a desensitizing paste both help.
Can I just live with it?
If it is stable and not sensitive, sometimes. The risk is root decay, which is harder to restore than a cavity in enamel.
Does brushing harder help my gums?
It does the opposite. Aggressive brushing with a hard brush is one of the most common causes we see.
Gum Recession Treatment
Honest dentistry, since 1987.
We will tell you what needs doing now, what can wait, and what we would leave alone.
- Over 50,000 patients treated since 1987
- Comprehensive new patient exam including oral cancer screening
- Three doctors and a long-tenured team
- Most major dental plans accepted
Been told you need a lot of work somewhere else? Second opinions are welcome and we give them straight.
Request an appointment
We reply the next business day.
Please do not include Protected Health Information. For anything urgent, call (910) 762-0958.
