I am so scared of my teeth!

I was told several times in the past 5-8 years that I have receeding gums.  I really didn't see a big change until the past year or two though.  My big worry now is that on of my front bottom teeth is getting bad and showing some of the root and I have two crowns in the back that are both showing some space between the gum and the crowns.  One of the two is really bad showing some root also.  I have never been too scared to go to a dentist like this.  What kind of treatment can be done to save my teeth.  I know the crowns should be replaced but what else?  I do not use tobacco and brush my teeth regularly.  I also floss and use Listerine.  Help!  What more is there to do?  I have had one light "pocket cleaning" in the past.

[Matthew Baron, D.M.D.]

It may not be as bad as you think.  With gum recession, you will see some root surfaces of the teeth which can lead to tooth sensitivity.  But if you don't have "pocketing" it is probably not too bad of a situation.  On the other hand, the recession could be a sign of more severe conditions which may require periodontal therapy.  Either way, it is a good idea to stay on top of it and have regular cleanings and check-ups.

[naddy]

I had receding gumline of my bottom front teeth.  I had to have a gum graft.  They took some gum from the roof of my mouth and stitched it to the front where the gum was receding.  During the procedure my mouth was numb so there was no pain.  After the procedure there was some slight didcomfort but not too bad.