Can you get dental implants with receding gum?
Did you know that gum recession is a slow process, that most people do not notice this problem until it is very advanced, that if left untreated it can lead to more serious problems such as jaw bone loss, loose teeth and tooth loss, and that approximately two thirds of tooth loss is due to untreated gum recession?
So can you have a dental implant if you have gum recession? Let's find the answer together in this blog post.
What is receding gums?
In order to define gum recession, it is first necessary to describe what healthy gums look like. Healthy gums are light pink to black in colour, depending on the ethnicity of the person. They are firmly attached to the teeth and form a wavy line around the teeth. They should not bleed during brushing or professional examination.
Gum recession is the erosion or receding of the gum tissue around the teeth, resulting in further exposure of the tooth or its root. This can create gaps between the teeth and gums and make the roots of the teeth more visible.
Symptoms of receding gums
Symptoms of gum recession may be one or more of the following conditions:
- The gums are pulled away from the teeth or tooth roots, exposing the tooth roots.
- Teeth appear longer than normal.
- Increased tooth sensitivity, especially to hot, cold or sweet foods,
- Pain or discomfort in the gum line when touching the gums,
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing,
- Gum infection,
- Bad aftertaste,
- New gaps between the teeth and gums,
- Sensitivity or pain during teeth cleaning,
- Teeth shaking or changing position.
What causes receding gums?
Periodontal disease (gum disease)
If the plaque (a sticky layer of bacteria) that accumulates on the teeth is not cleaned regularly, it can produce harmful substances that irritate the gums. This irritation leads to gum inflammation. Over time, the inflammation weakens the gum tissue and the bone that supports the tooth. As a result, the gums pull away from the teeth and pockets form. If left untreated, the teeth may become loose and eventually fall out.
Hard and incorrect brushing
Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can damage the gums and cause recession. Excessive pressure wears down the gums, can erode the enamel, and increase sensitivity.
Inadequate oral hygiene
Not brushing and flossing regularly can lead to plaque build-up. Plaque may harden into tartar, which can accelerate gum recession.
Tobacco use
Tobacco products can increase your risk of gum disease. Smoking makes bacteria grow more quickly, causes inflammation and slows the healing of the gums. It can also disrupt the blood circulation of the gums, leading to tissue loss.
Hormonal changes
Hormonal changes during periods like puberty, pregnancy and menopause can make the gums sensitive. Especially during pregnancy, gum disease can get worse more easily.
Genetics
Some people are born with thinner or weaker gums. If there's gum disease in the family, the risk is higher.
Teeth grinding and clenching (Bruxism)
Clenching or grinding the teeth can put pressure on the gums and lead to recession. It can also cause the teeth to shake and form pockets where bacteria can accumulate.
Crowded teeth and malocclusion
If your teeth aren't properly aligned, they can put too much pressure on your gums and jawbone, which can make your teeth recede. It also leads to more bacteria building up because it makes it harder to clean. This can also happen after orthodontic treatment.
Tongue and lip piercings
Tongue and lip piercings can rub against the gums all the time, which can lead to irritation and tissue loss over time.
Ageing
Over time, the gums can recede naturally. Over time, the gums and bone structure weaken and become sensitive.
Trauma and injuries
Incorrectly fitted dentures, sports accidents, falls or damage during dental treatment can lead to receding gums.
Some medications
Some medications, like ones for epilepsy, heart disease, blood pressure, and immune system problems, can cause gum enlargement (hypertrophy).
Dry mouth (xerostomia)
Some medicines, diseases or treatments such as radiotherapy can cause dry mouth. Low saliva increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
HIV and immune system problems
Mouth sores, infections and gum diseases are more common in HIV positive individuals.
Can receding gums be reversed?
Receding gums do not naturally grow back, meaning that once gum recession has occurred, the gum tissue will not grow back on its own. However, dentists can apply various treatment methods to improve the appearance and health of the gum line, prevent further recession and reduce tooth sensitivity.
Treatment for receding gums in Turkey
Now you know that receding gums do not naturally grow back. Don't worry just yet because various treatments can be applied to stop the progression of existing gum recession and improve the appearance and health of the gum line.
The treatment of gum recession is individualised and is determined after a thorough evaluation by a dentist. Your dentist will offer the most appropriate treatment options for your case and will share the treatment process with you in detail. With early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, the progression of gum recession can be stopped and your dental health can be protected. Of course, although the treatment of gingival recession is personalised, the type of treatment will depend on the cause and severity of gingival recession.
Treatment process
Your dentist will carry out a comprehensive examination.The cause and severity of the withdrawal are determined. A special treatment plan is created for you.
Treatment methods
Non-surgical treatments
Desensitisation products
Special toothpastes (containing strontium chloride, potassium nitrate) helps reduce sensitivity.
Aesthetic solutions
Tooth-coloured composite fillings pink porcelain or composite veneers and removable gum prostheses.
Other methods
- Deep cleaning (scaling and root correction),
- Antibacterial mouthwashes (with chlorhexidine),
- Topical antibiotics,
- Night plaque for teeth grinding.
Surgical treatments
Gum grafting (most common method)
It is a healthy tissue transplant usually taken from the palate. It closes open roots and is applied in 3 different ways:
- Free gingival graft,
- Connective tissue graft,
- Side shift graft.
Which treatment is right for you?
- Usually non-surgical methods for mild recessions,
- Surgical intervention in advanced cases,
- Night plaque if there is clenching,
- Orthodontic treatment if there is crowding.
Can you get dental implants despite receding gums?
Yes, dental implants can also be applied in patients with receding gums.
However, in this case, a comprehensive evaluation is required before implant treatment. Your dentist will examine the condition of your gums and jawbone in detail with X-rays and other imaging methods. It is important to fulfil some basic conditions for the success of the implant application:
- There must be sufficient healthy gum and jawbone tissue in the area where the implant will be placed. If the cause of gum recession is severe gum disease (periodontitis), this disease must be controlled before starting implant treatment.
- Treatment for gum disease varies depending on the severity of the condition. Treatment may include scaling, root surface correction, antibiotics, laser treatment or surgery. Implants placed without treating the disease have a higher risk of failure.
- In cases of bone loss associated with gingival recession, bone grafting may be required prior to implantation. Bone grafting reconstructs the lost bone tissue and provides a solid foundation for the implant. In cases of very advanced bone loss, zygomatic implants (implants placed in the cheekbone) may be considered as an alternative solution.
- In patients with severe gum recession, gum grafting may be used to create sufficient gum tissue around the implant. This procedure improves both the long-term success of the implant and the aesthetic appearance. Grafting usually uses tissue from the patient's own palate.
FAQs
Can brushing too hard cause gum recession?
Yes, brushing too hard can cause gum recession.
Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can cause the gums to wear down and recede over time. This means that the gums move away from the tooth and root surfaces.
Brushing too hard can also cause bleeding and damage to the gums. It is therefore important to brush gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush using the correct technique to prevent gum recession.
How do I care for my dental implants if I have receding gums?
If you have gum recession while you have dental implants, it is very important that you follow a diligent care routine to keep your implants long lasting and healthy recommendations to maintain the health of both your implants and your gums:
- It is very important to clean the areas between your implants and your teeth once a day. You can use dental floss (especially implant floss) or interdental brushes.
- Use regular fluoride toothpaste unless your dentist advises otherwise.
- You can use mouthwash, but avoid using it at the same time as brushing your teeth as this can reduce the effectiveness of the fluoride in the toothpaste.
- Your dentist can monitor the condition of your gums, check for signs of further receding gums and provide appropriate treatment if necessary.
- Visit your dental hygienist regularly for a professional cleaning. A professional cleaning helps to remove plaque that cannot be removed by brushing and flossing alone. Your dental hygienist will help keep the gums around your implants healthy.
- If you have teeth grinding (bruxism), talk to your dentist about using a night guard. Teeth grinding can put pressure on your gums and cause to recession.
- If you have tongue or lip piercings, make sure they do not damage your gums. Constant friction can cause gum recession.
- If you notice any discomfort, bleeding, mobility, pus or bad taste/odour, contact your dentist immediately. Early intervention may reduce the severity of any problems.
- It is important to have your implant and denture checked every 12 months. Your dentist will check the health of your gums and bite pressure. If necessary, X-rays may be taken to check the bone level around the implant.
Are there any alternatives if I am not a good candidate for dental implants?
Yes, if you are not a suitable candidate for dental implants, there are alternatives to restoring your teeth or smile. Here are these alternatives:
Dental bridges
A dental bridge is a fixed prosthesis used to replace a missing tooth.The bridge is supported by healthy teeth next to the missing tooth.Crowns are placed on these supporting teeth and an artificial tooth (pontic) is attached to these crowns to fill the space between them. Bridges are usually made of porcelain and can be coloured to match your surrounding teeth.
Dentures
Dentures are removable prostheses that can be used for people with missing teeth. Full dentures are used if you have lost all your teeth, while partial dentures can be used if you have only lost some of your teeth. Two implants are usually enough to stabilise the lower denture. Four or more implants can provide a strong and stable bite in the upper or lower jaw.
Is there a time when dental implants cannot be done?
General health is an important factor in implant treatment. People with serious health problems that prevent simple tooth extraction are generally not suitable candidates for implant treatment. However, some systemic diseases or medications may affect the success of implantation. In such cases, your dentist and specialist will work together to assess your situation.
Yes, there are situations in which dental implants cannot always be placed. Dental implants cannot be placed or may require prior treatment if there is insufficient bone or gum tissue, uncontrolled gum disease, or serious conditions that may prevent the implant from stabilising.
The most accurate assessment of whether you are a suitable candidate for implant treatment will be made by your dentist after a detailed examination and, if necessary, imaging techniques (such as X-rays, CT scans).
Are there any risks to getting dental implants despite receding gums?
Yes, there are some risks to having dental implants despite gum recession. These are:
Risk of implant failure
Gum recession can reduce the amount of healthy gum on which to place the implant. Gum recession is also often associated with bone loss. Adequate and healthy bone and gum support is essential for the long-term success of the implant. Inadequate support can cause the implant to loosen and eventually fall out, resulting in both financial loss and a return to the beginning of the treatment process.
Risk of peri-implantitis (gum disease around the implant)
Like natural teeth, implants are susceptible to bacteria and can develop an infection called peri-implantitis. People with active or previous gum disease are more likely to develop an infection around the implant. This infection can destroy the bone and tissue supporting the implant, which can lead to loosening and loss of the implant.
Increased treatment time and cost
Implant treatment can often be more complex in individuals with receding gums, and the cause of gum recession may need to be identified and treated prior to implant treatment.
Aesthetic concerns
After implant placement in individuals with receding gums, aesthetic problems such as irregularities in the gum level and unnatural appearance of the implant crown may occur during the healing process.
If you have periodontal disease, contact us today!
If you notice symptoms such as bleeding, redness, swelling, tenderness or loose teeth, contact Simena Dental Clinic immediately for early diagnosis and treatment and have a comprehensive examination with one of our dentists. Simena Dental Clinic provides you with quality service with its expert dentists, expert staff and technical equipment. All you need to do is to contact us today.