Maintaining Oral Health: How To Prevent Receding Gums
A vibrant smile can do wonders for your appearance, and it’s also a sign of good oral health. However, receding gums are an all too common issue that affects many people. If left untreated, gum recession can lead to additional dental problems affecting your appearance and overall health and well-being.
If you’ve ever wondered what causes receding gums or how to fix receding gums, then keep on reading. We’ll help you understand how gum recession develops, its causes, signs, symptoms, and the best practices to prevent receding gums.
What Is Gum Recession?
Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue surrounding the teeth starts to pull back, exposing more of the tooth’s surface and root. This often leads to gaps forming between the teeth and gums, which can become a haven for bacterial growth.
Receding gums can severely damage the teeth, supporting tissues, and bone structure. They can also result in tooth loss.
Causes of Gum Recession
The question of “what causes receding gums?” is essential to understanding its causes and ways to prevent or treat it. The following are some common factors that could lead to recessed gums:
- Poor Oral Hygiene: Insufficient or incorrect oral hygiene practices can lead to the buildup of plaque and tartar, which can cause gum recession.
- Incorrect Brushing Technique: Vigorous or improper tooth brushing can wear away the protective enamel layer and cause the gums to recede.
- Periodontal Disease: This bacterial gum infection can lead to gum tissue and bone breakdown, causing gum recession.
- Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in hormone levels, particularly in women during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause, can make the gums more sensitive and prone to gum recession.
- Tobacco Usage: Smoking or chewing tobacco can lead to the buildup of plaque, increasing the risk of gum recession.
- Genetics: Some individuals may be genetically predisposed to gum disease and recession, regardless of optimal oral care practices.
- Grinding or Clenching Teeth (Bruxism): Over time, this habit can create excessive pressure on the teeth, leading to gum recession.
- Misaligned Teeth: Teeth that do not align correctly can exert an imbalanced force on the gums and bone, leading to recession.
- Oral Piercings: Tongue or lip piercings can irritate the gums, causing them to wear away and recede.
Signs and Symptoms of Gum Recession
Knowing how to fix receding gums starts with identifying the problem. Watch out for these tell-tale signs and symptoms:
- Tooth Sensitivity: Receding gums often reveal the tooth’s root surface, leading to increased sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and beverages.
- Longer Teeth: As the gums recede, the exposed part of the tooth becomes more prominent, giving the appearance of longer teeth.
- Discoloration: Gum recession may cause a change in color on the tooth surface due to the exposed root or buildup of plaque and tartar.
- Shifting Teeth: In advanced cases, receding gums can lead to the loosening and shifting of teeth.
- Bad Breath: The bacteria buildup in the gum pockets can lead to persistent bad breath (halitosis).
How To Prevent Receding Gums
Prevention is better than having to figure out how to fix receding gums. You can minimize the risk of gum recession by combining good oral practices and healthy lifestyle habits.
- Maintain Proper Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth gently at least twice daily. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to prevent damage to your gums, and floss daily to remove plaque and reduce your risk of gum disease.
- Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Regular dental checkups and professional cleanings can help identify early warning signs of gum recession and offer guidance on oral care practices. We recommend visiting your local dentist at least twice a year.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Eliminate tobacco usage to reduce plaque buildup and your risk for gum disease or recession. Seek professional help to effectively and safely stop smoking.
- Eat a Balanced Diet: Consuming a well-rounded diet with necessary nutrients and vitamins can help boost gum health. Reduce sugar-filled food and drinks from your diet.
- Bite Correction: If you have misaligned teeth, consult your dentist for possible treatment options to prevent gum recession.
- Manage Bruxism: Consult your dentist for solutions to reduce teeth grinding and clenching, such as using a specialized mouthguard during sleep.
Visit Archpoint Implant Dentistry
Knowing what causes receding gums can help you take steps to maintain your dental health. By taking the right steps on how to stop receding gums, you can prevent the risk of complications.
At Archpoint Implant Dentistry, our team strives to provide the best possible care for individuals experiencing receding gums. With a personalized approach to each patient’s needs, Archpoint Implant Dentistry offers a range of treatment options to restore gum health and prevent further recession.
Don’t let receding gums impact your quality of life – reach out to Archpoint Implant Dentistry today and take the first step towards a healthier, more confident smile.
