How can I treat gum recession non-surgically?

Non-Surgical Management of Receding Gums

The most effective non-surgical approach to treating gum recession is using L-PRF (Leukocyte and Platelet-Rich Fibrin) membranes during a coronally advanced flap procedure, which significantly improves outcomes while reducing post-operative pain compared to traditional surgical methods. 1

Understanding Gum Recession

Gum recession is a common oral condition characterized by the apical migration of the gingival margin, exposing the tooth root. It affects:

• 50% of people aged 18-64 years
• 88% of people aged 65 years and older 2

Common Causes of Gum Recession

• Improper brushing techniques (excessive force or horizontal brushing)
• Gum inflammation/periodontal disease
• Thin gingival biotype
• Mechanical trauma
• Tobacco use
• Tartar buildup
• Misaligned teeth
• Occlusal overload
• Aging 3

Non-Surgical Management Options

1. Proper Oral Hygiene Practices

• Brushing technique:

  • Use a small, ultra-soft-headed, rounded-end bristle toothbrush
  • Brush gently at a 45-degree angle to the gumline
  • Avoid aggressive horizontal brushing
  • Use prescription-strength fluoride toothpaste 4

• Flossing:

  • Floss at least once daily
  • Use waxed floss to minimize trauma to gums
  • If bleeding persists for more than 2 minutes, consult your dental professional 4

2. Professional Dental Care

• Regular dental check-ups every 6 months
• Professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar
• Root planing and scaling to remove bacterial toxins

3. Advanced Non-Surgical Treatments

L-PRF Membrane Treatment with Coronally Advanced Flap

This minimally invasive technique has shown excellent results:

1. The procedure involves:

   • Preparation of horizontal beveled incisions mesial and distal to recession
   • Creation of a trapezoidal-shaped flap
   • Application of multiple L-PRF membranes over the exposed root
   • Coronally advancing the flap to cover the recession 1

2. Post-procedure care:

   • Soft food diet
   • No biting/chewing in the treated area
   • No mechanical cleaning of the treated area for 1 week
   • Chlorhexidine rinses (0.12%) twice daily for 3 weeks 1

4. Supportive Measures

• Rinses:

  • Use alcohol-free mouthwash or bland rinse (1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon baking soda in 4 cups of water)
  • Rinse vigorously to maintain moisture and reduce plaque 4

• Moisturizing:

  • Use water or artificial saliva products
  • Apply water-soluble lubricants inside the mouth
  • Avoid glycerin or lemon-glycerin swabs 1

• Lip care:

  • Use animal or plant-based oils (beeswax, cocoa butter, lanolin)
  • Avoid petroleum-based products 1

When to Seek Professional Help

Consult a dental professional immediately if you notice:

• Increasing tooth sensitivity
• Visible root exposure
• Tooth mobility
• Gingival bleeding
• Pain or discomfort

Important Considerations

• The L-PRF technique offers significant advantages over traditional surgical methods, including reduced post-operative pain and improved clinical outcomes 1
• Proper oral hygiene is crucial for preventing further recession
• Early intervention is key to preventing progression of gum recession
• Some cases may eventually require surgical intervention if non-surgical methods are insufficient

Contraindications and Cautions

• Patients taking bisphosphonates should inform their dentist before any dental procedures due to risk of medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw 4
• Patients with temporomandibular disorders should avoid excessive jaw movement during dental procedures 1
• Tobacco use significantly increases the risk of gum recession and should be discontinued 3

Remember that while non-surgical approaches can help manage and sometimes improve mild to moderate gum recession, severe cases may ultimately require surgical intervention for complete resolution.