Why is my gum inflammation still there after cleaning?

Question

Hello doctor,

I got a teeth cleaning done, but the inflammation is still there. The dentist said that I need to get treated for a receding gum line through surgery. She said it was due to brushing hard and asked me to switch to a soft-bristle toothbrush and sensitivity toothpaste. I am also awaiting some fillings. I already have a temporary filling which as fallen out, and the hole seems to be too big.

Please advise.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Use warm saline gargling daily at least 2 or 3 times for two weeks. This will help in reducing the inflammation and help in preventing further recession of the gum line.

Also, if you can get Betadine gargle for rinsing, then it would be much better. This would be of great help in case of severe periodontitis (gum inflammation and receding gums).

Use a toothbrush (as suggested by your treating dentist), which has very soft bristles, in an upward and downward motion only. Do not scrub the toothbrush over the gingiva (gums) as it may cause further recession of the gum line. If the recession is severe, then it may require flap surgery; still, the receded gingiva can never be brought back, but a further recession can be avoided.

You need to get that filling done as early as possible or it may result in infection of the tooth root.

I hope this helps.