[Brenda Crawford]

What to do about possible receding gums?

by Brenda Crawford on Fri Apr 15, 2016 9:52 am

If I have missed a post on this subject it isn't because I haven't searched!

I was diagnosed with multiple myeloma Stage II in February and began Velcade (subcutaneous) and dex. All of my numbers that should decrease are decreasing and those that should rise are rising. It's all good and I am feeling very positive.

35 years ago, I had two root canals and crowns. I have had no problems - until now. My gums are receding at the site of the crowns. I am going to make an appointment with my dentist and am a bit nervous about that because I anticipate he will send me to an oral surgeon and I would prefer to not have any kind of surgery until I am in remission.

My question is - have any of you experienced a similar issue?

[Mark Pouley]

Re: What to do about possible receding gums?

by Mark Pouley on Fri Apr 15, 2016 10:29 am

I'm noticing a similar issue with a crown. I started treatment in November 2015 and had a full dental cleaning and exam before I starting knowing oral infections could be a problem. All was well at the time.

In the last month or so I've noticed a "gap" developing at the base of a crown that I can feel with my tongue. I've planned to get into the dentist for an exam. Odd thing, though – this gap seems to come and go. This morning as I type this, I don't notice the gap. So that makes me wonder if our gums are changing with some of the medications.

[coachhoke]

Re: What to do about possible receding gums?

by coachhoke on Fri Apr 15, 2016 11:29 am

Brenda and Mark,

Gums recede for a multitude of reasons. Multiple myeloma and all of the treatments for it are NOT responsible for your recession. The only oral problems that I'm aware of are ONJ and occasionally ulcers. Three causes that may apply to you are:

1. Plaque accumulating at the juncture of the crown and the root.
2. Aggressive brushing with a hard-bristled brush.
3. A tooth that is hitting the opposing tooth too hard (malocclusion).

There are many other causes including the normal aging process. If the bone under the gum area is also receding, then you have a periodontal problem. If it is just an esthetic problem, I wouldn't worry about it.

Coach Hoke, retired dentist

[Brenda Crawford]

Re: What to do about possible receding gums?

by Brenda Crawford on Fri Apr 15, 2016 11:53 am

Coach Hoke,

Thank you for your response. I didn't mean for my post to come across as if I was actually blaming multiple myeloma, Velcade, or dex. I knew the mouth ulcers could be a side effect, and just wondered about the gum issues.

I have made an appointment with the dentist.