Determining whether you need non-surgical periodontal therapy or a surgical gum graft depends on the severity of your gum recession and the health of your gum tissue.

At Parkside Dental Group, dentists use advanced diagnostics and a comprehensive periodontal exam to determine which treatment is right for you. Here are the common indicators for each:

Signs You May Need Periodontal Therapy:

• Early Stages: If you are in the early stages of gum disease, non-surgical treatments like scaling and root planing are often used to manage inflammation and stop the progression of the disease.
• Symptoms: Indicators that you may need periodontal therapy include bleeding gums during brushing, swelling, or persistent bad breath.

Signs You May Need Gum Grafting:

• Significant Tissue Loss: When there is a significant loss of gum tissue or the tooth roots are exposed, a surgical graft is typically recommended to protect the roots and restore the gum line.
• Increased Sensitivity: Sharp sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks is a common sign that the protective gum tissue has receded.
• Visible Changes: You may notice your teeth appearing longer or see the exposed roots, which lack the protective enamel found on the crowns of your teeth.

During a consultation, your dentist will measure the depth of the recession with a precise probe and may use digital X-rays to assess underlying bone loss. This evaluation helps determine if the cause is aggressive brushing, genetics, or periodontal disease, allowing for a personalized treatment plan that fits your unique needs.

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