Whether gum recession is the result of periodontitis or some other cause, there are a number of ways Dr. David Williams can treat this condition in Pensacola, FL so that your teeth and gums are healthier and more attractive. Uncontrolled bacteria in the mouth is one of the leading reasons that patients experience gum recession. It can happen slowly and without notice during the early stages of gum disease but without treatment, it will usually progress into periodontitis. Periodontitis is an infection that destroys the gums and bone tissues and places teeth at a serious risk of loss. Dr. Williams uses the latest laser technology to treat periodontitis, preferring it over the traditional method which relies on cutting and suturing. In fact, traditional gum disease treatment can actually cause gum recession because it damages healthy gum tissue. Brushing too hard, holding the brush at the wrong angle, and using hard bristles instead of soft bristles can also make the gums recede. In these cases, an electric toothbrush can be useful. Lifestyle behaviors such as smoking or chewing tobacco, mouth piercings, genetics, damaged teeth, and poor occlusion can also cause recession.