What is gum recession?
Gum recession or root exposure is a disease or pathological process that is characterized by visible roots, sensitivity to cold or touch, and in extreme cases, loose teeth. Age is not a proven primary factor for gum recession. Significant concerns regarding root recession are as follows (least to most important): • Cosmetics • Tooth sensitivity to cold stimuli or touch • Loss of a “firm collar” of tissue around the neck of the tooth that functions as a protective mechanism for the underlying bone • Root caries, or cavities in the roots • Permanent loss of bone support for the roots Roots are porous in nature, much like a sponge. They have holes and tunnels in them, called tubules that accumulate food particles, by-products and bacteria when exposed. This invasion very rapidly results in loss of mineralization of the tooth, and cavities invade the root when it is exposed. A firm band of tissue called “attached tissue” is usually attached to a root and provides a cinching affect around t
