If something’s wrong with your gums, you might think they’d stand out more. Wouldn’t the tissues ache, bleed, or change color? That said, some problems can make your gums recede. This recession is often subtle but presents a real threat to your oral health. Luckily, you can prevent and manage the matter with dental care. Your Boca Raton dentist will even explain how. So, here’s a primer on what causes gums to recede and how dentistry can fix the pink tissues.
What’s Gum Recession?
Sure enough, an oral issue can cause gums to bleed or turn puffy. However, there are other signs that the tissues are in trouble. One of these is called gum recession.
Of course, gum recession occurs when the gums pull back from your teeth. It thus exposes your dental roots and harms your oral health. After all, bacteria could reach the exposed areas and trigger tooth decay and sensitivity. You’d then face more than just oddly long teeth.
What Causes It?
Various factors can lead to gum recession. Generally, though, the most common ones are:
- Poor Oral Hygiene: Should plaque build around your gumline, it’ll inflame your gums. You’d then develop gum recession.
- Overbrushing: Brushing your gums too hard isn’t good for them. By doing so, you’ll damage the tissues and make them recede.
- Tooth Grinding: Grinding your teeth doesn’t just harm your pearly whites. At times, it can lead to your gums receding.
- Tobacco Use: Based on current research and studies, tobacco products cause gum recession.
How Should You Respond?
While receded gums won’t grow back, you can manage and prevent the issue. Just visit your local dentist for the appropriate care.
Overall, dentists have several ways to treat gum recession. One option is root scaling and planing, in which special tools remove the plaque at the affected tooth roots. (This work keeps your gums from receding further.) A topical antibiotic could also help, as it’d destroy bacteria beneath the gumline.
After such procedures, the best thing to do is practice good oral care. Doing so helps you avoid more gum recession. Therefore, remember to brush twice daily, floss daily, and rinse with mouthwash. Also, use a good brushing method to protect your enamel and gums.
Knowing what causes gums to recede is helpful. Given that fact, note the ones listed above and see your dentist for extra help!
About the Author
Dr. Alberto J. Lamberti is a dentist based in Boca Raton, FL. Since earning his DDM from Tufts’ School of Dental Medicine, he’s loved tending to patients’ oral care. His expertise spans preventive, cosmetic, and restorative work, as well as emergency dentistry. Dr. Lamberti also prides himself on his extensive experience in prosthodontics. Today, Dr. Lamberti practices at his self-titled clinic and is reachable on his website and by phone at (504)-738-5171.