When gum tissue begins pulling away from the tooth or recedes, it exposes more of the tooth and even the tooth root. If left untreated, receding gums can make the root and even jaw bone tissue vulnerable, thereby risking severe infection, tooth loss, or tooth nerve damage. So, what causes a person’s gums to recede? As with any other dental condition, several factors can contribute to receding gums including:
- brushing teeth too frequently or too hard
- certain medications or medical conditions
- grinding teeth
- hormonal changes
- inadequate oral hygiene
- misaligned bite
- periodontal disease
- tobacco use
So, what are the signs of receding gums? If you suspect that your gums are receding, you should have a qualified professional to examine your teeth and gums. With the proper diagnosis, he/she can treat the condition. Healthy gums have a nice pink color and the gum line around your teeth is consistent. Conversely, if they’re receding, you’ll notice:
- gaps or pockets between teeth
- gums appear to be pulling away from the teeth
- gums are swollen
- gums bleed when brushing and flossing
- pain and discomfort
- some teeth look longer than others
- teeth loosening in their sockets
If you’re experiencing any or a combination of the above symptoms, you must visit your dentist and discuss ways to prevent gum recession. If you have gum disease, your gums and bone structure may try to combat this progressive issue. However, this is a battle that they cannot win without the help of a dentist. That is one of the reasons that you should not ignore any tooth or gum issues but schedule an appointment today.
Antibiotics and deep cleaning will usually clear out any harmful bacteria and infection, based on the extent of the damage caused by the condition. In the more advanced cases, tissue grafting or surgery may be required to regenerate bone structure and gum damage. Keep in mind that receding gums are not always caused by gum disease. In some cases, preventive measures such as aligning your bite, quitting smoking, treating cavities, and using a customized night guard will protect against damage to your smile.
Gum disease and receding gums can be prevented by brushing and flossing a minimum of two times a day, eating a healthy, well-balanced diet, and visiting your dentist for check-ups and cleanings every 6 months. And this does not hold true just for adults but children need to stay on track with their regular checks and maintain proper oral hygiene to ensure healthy teeth.
Remember, prevention is the key to healthy teeth and gums as well as a good-looking smile. For more information, contact the office of Dr. Tamara Rojas, D.M.D., P.A. at (954) 963-4700 today.