Understanding Gum Recession and Potential Causes
Noticing your gums peeling away from your teeth? This common condition is known as gum recession and it can happen for a variety of reasons. Keep reading to understand why gum recession occurs and what you can do to treat it.
What is Gum Recession?
Gum recession refers to the exposure of tooth roots due to shrinking gums. It happens when the gum tissue pulls away from the base of the teeth, leaving more of the tooth surface exposed.
This can occur with just one tooth or multiple teeth. The amount of recession can range from minor to advanced. Advanced gum recession results in more visible tooth roots and increased tooth sensitivity.
What Causes Gum Recession?
There are several potential causes of receding gums:
- Periodontal disease - Bacterial gum infections break down gum tissue.
- Aggressive brushing - Excessive pressure wears away gums.
- Poor oral hygiene - Plaque buildup at gumline inflames gums.
- Smoking - Chemicals in cigarettes restrict blood flow.
- Grinding teeth - Chronic stress and friction degrade gums.
- Crooked teeth - Misaligned teeth create rubbing and pressure.
- Genetics - Some people are predisposed to thin gums.
Symptoms of Gum Recession
Signs of receding gums include:
- Tooth sensitivity
- Visible roots
- Teeth appearing longer
- Loose teeth
- Toothaches
- Spaces forming between teeth
Treatments for Receding Gums
If you notice gum recession, see your dentist right away. Treatments may include:
Improved Oral Hygiene
Practicing thorough but gentle brushing and flossing helps restore gum health. Your dentist can demonstrate proper technique.
Deep Cleanings
Scaling and root planing cleans below the gumline to remove plaque and tartar. This allows gums to reattach and heal.
Medications
Prescription antimicrobial mouthwashes fight infection and reduce inflammation to help gums reattach.
Gum Grafts
Grafting surgery transplants healthy gum tissue to cover exposed roots. This can rebuild receded areas.
Guided Tissue Regeneration
This procedure uses small membranes placed under the gums, allowing bone and tissue regrowth to cover exposed roots.
Pinhole Surgical Technique
Minimally invasive pinhole surgery releases scar tissue to help receded gums reattach and cover tooth roots.
At-Home Treatment for Gum Recession
In addition to professional treatments, these home care tips can help manage gum recession:
Use a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush
Avoid irritating your gums by switching to a brush with smooth, rounded bristles. Take care not to scrub aggressively.
Choose Sensitivity-Friendly Toothpaste
Look for toothpastes made for sensitive teeth, which contain ingredients like potassium nitrate to relieve discomfort.
Rinse with Antimicrobial Mouthwash
Gently swishing daily with an antimicrobial mouthwash helps reduce bacteria and inflammation.
Massage Gums
Gently massaging gums with a clean finger after brushing improves circulation.
Eat a Balanced Diet
A nutritious diet supports gum health. Focus on fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and omega-3s.
Quit Smoking
Giving up smoking allows more blood flow to nourish gums and facilitates healing.
Use a Bite Guard
Wearing a mouth guard at night prevents teeth grinding that can worsen recession.
When to Seek Gum Grafting Treatment
Your dentist may recommend gum grafting if you have:
Severe Gum Recession
Deep gum recession with extensive loss of tissue requires grafting to cover exposed roots.
Ongoing Recession
Progressive recession that continues despite good oral care may need grafting.
Tooth Sensitivity
Significant sensitivity from receding gums can be resolved with grafting.
Noticeable Roots
Grafting can improve aesthetics when roots are clearly visible.
Risk of Tooth Loss
Grafting helps stabilize teeth that have become loose due to severe recession.
Post-Grafting Care for Gum Recession
Proper healing is crucial after gum grafting. Follow these tips for best results:
Take Prescribed Medications
Antibiotics and anti-inflammatories help prevent infection and swelling after surgery.
Stick to a Soft Food Diet
Avoid hard, crunchy or sticky foods that could dislodge the grafted tissue.
Gently Brush Teeth
Brush carefully using a soft brush and avoid disturbing the grafted area when flossing.
Use Medicated Mouthwash
Rinsing gently with prescribed mouthwash keeps the area clean.
Attend Follow-Up Appointments
Follow-up visits ensure proper healing and allow for any needed adjustments.
Avoid Tobacco
Smoking and chewing tobacco inhibits healing and increases risk of infections.
Preventing Further Gum Recession
Once gum recession occurs, it's important to take steps to prevent it worsening or affecting more teeth:
Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene
Consistent thorough but gentle brushing and flossing is key to gum health.
Get Regular Cleanings
Professional cleanings remove hardened plaque below the gumline.
Use a Night Guard
Curb grinding and clenching that wears down gums by wearing a custom night guard.
Address Misaligned Bites
Crooked teeth that misalign the bite can be corrected with orthodontics.
Quit Smoking
Smoking cessation allows gums to properly reattach and heal.
While gum recession can't always be prevented, excellent oral hygiene and avoiding harmful habits can help protect your gums.
FAQs
Is gum recession reversible?
In early stages, gum recession can potentially be reversed through excellent oral hygiene and professional cleanings. Advanced recession requires grafting surgery to cover exposed roots.
How can I tell if I have gum recession?
Signs include sensitive teeth, visible roots, teeth appearing longer, spaces between teeth, and loose teeth. Your dentist can confirm recession during an exam.
What toothpaste is best for receding gums?
Choose a sensitivity-relief toothpaste formulated for gum issues. Look for ingredients like stannous fluoride, potassium nitrate, and aloe vera.
Can receding gums grow back?
Severely receded gums won't grow back on their own. However, gum grafting surgery can regenerate lost gum tissue to cover exposed roots.
How can I stop my gums from receding further?
Prevent further recession with diligent oral hygiene, regular dental cleanings, addressing teeth grinding, quitting smoking, and getting misaligned bites corrected.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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