What Causes Receding Gums and What Can You Do About Them?
Receding gums is very common and can happen for many reasons. While gum tissue cannot grow back, there are prevention techniques and treatments available. So, if this is a problem for you, don’t panic, you are not alone.
Oral hygiene can be a factor in receding gums. It is important to floss, use mouthwash, and make sure you aren’t brushing too hard. Along with not brushing too hard, a soft bristled toothbrush may be helpful if you are struggling with your gums. Taking proper care of your teeth at home is a priority, and make sure you go for regular dental checkups.
Periodontal disease (an infection of the gums) and gingivitis (gum inflammation), can cause receding gums and lead to issues with the jaw.
Hormone changes in women can affect gums as well. Estrogen fluctuations during pregnancy, menopause, and even menstruation can increase blood flow and cause them to recede.
Genetics is another factor that can cause gum recession. If members in your family have had this issue, there may be a link. Diabetes can affect this too, so proper diabetes maintenance is also important.
And finally smoking can affect gums, so if quitting has been on your to-do list, now might be time to tackle it! Another habit to break is clenching your jaw if that is an issue.
What are the Symptoms of Receding Gums?
One of the most obvious signs of gum issues is bleeding when you brush or floss. When your gums are super sensitive and showing signs of inflammation, it’s time to look closer at the issue. Along with bleeding and inflammation, sensitivity to hot or cold food can also occur. When the roots get exposed, they can be quite painful and irritable. Loose teeth are another thing to look for and having bad breath. If you are struggling to have fresh breath, it may be worth looking at your gum health.
What Treatments are Available?
When preventing gum recession, there are a few different places to start. A healthy diet helps build strong teeth and keeps the body healthy. With food choices, minimizing acidic food and drink will help prevent further damage. If you are a smoker and have receding gums, this is also a habit you want to break. Having a consistent oral health routine, including bushing, flossing, and mouthwash, will help keep your gums healthy. The CariFree CTx26 Kit with CTx4 Gel 1100 is fantastic for maintaining a clean mouth and perfect for those who require antibacterial therapy. Switching to a softer toothbrush and toothpaste for sensitive teeth can also be helpful. If grinding your teeth is an issue, your dentist may suggest a mouth guard to help.
With surgery options, there are two types of surgeries suggested. For minor issues they begin with a very thorough cleaning. Getting in between the teeth and cleaning under the gums. They can reattach the gums if needed, which is a simple procedure.
For receding gums that need more intense treatment, they do gum grafting. Basically, this means they take the gum tissue off the top of the mouth and attach it to the area needed. While this is a more intense surgery, it is still simple and quite common.
Where Should You Start?
Multiple issues can cause receding gums. There are many options to try, and this is an obstacle many people face. If this is a problem for you, or you have questions, contact your dentist to discuss the best action to take. Above all, keep flossing, brushing, and rinsing, and visit your dentist as recommended.