Gum disease is a menace, affecting roughly half of all adults over the age of 30 to some degree at some point in their lifetime. One of the most devastating symptoms of this condition is gum recession, as it not only affects the look of your smile, but also its overall wellness. Continue reading below to learn a little more about what gum recession is and how it’s caused, along with a few ways that your dentist can help to address the issue and get your smile back to looking and feeling its best.
Why Causes Gum Recession?
Gum recession is a common dental issue that occurs when the gum tissue surrounding the teeth wears away or pulls back, exposing more of the underlying tooth roots. While it can happen gradually over time, it can also be triggered by various factors. Here’s more about a few of the most common causes of gum recession:
Poor Oral Health
If you aren’t keeping up with your daily brushing and flossing habits, it’s possible for plaque to build up between your teeth and gums. The bacteria within it can cause your gums to become inflamed, leading to issues like periodontal disease and recession, or even total tooth loss!
Aggressive Brushing Habits
Over-brushing is a real thing; it simply means brushing your teeth too aggressively or incorrectly. The best way to tell if you’re overbrushing is if your toothbrush bristles are becoming frayed quickly and you’re squashing them against your teeth as you brush. Instead, try focusing on your technique and apply a gentle amount of pressure as you brush. Also be sure you’re using a soft-bristled toothbrush with clean, fresh bristles.
Genetics
It’s possible that the genetic makeup you inherit from your parents might also influence your gum recession, as well as numerous other aspects of your smile including the shade of your teeth!
Bruxism
Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is another cause of gum recession. Grinding your teeth or clenching your jaw usually occurs while sleeping, so it’s not easily identifiable. However, it can easily be remedied with a nightguard to reduce the amount of contact that occurs between your teeth at night, thereby negating further gum recession.
Physical Trauma
A violent strike to the face or mouth, slipping or tripping and falling, or another form of physical impact can also harm your teeth and gums and cause the surrounding tissue to recede.
How Can My Dentist Help?
With the help of your dentist, gum recession can easily be corrected, and your smile can get back to looking and feeling its absolute best. Intensive deep cleanings consisting of scaling and root planing can be carried out, as can gum recontouring/reshaping treatments. It’s also worth noting that gum tissue doesn’t fully grow back on its own, but if the reduction in tissue is quite extensive, gum grafting is one option your dentist might consider. A more modern approach offered by some dentists consists of regeneration therapy but is often reserved for significant cases.
The bottom line is that you don’t have to settle for a smile that’s afflicted by gum recession when so many modern solutions exist; don’t wait to speak with your dentist today!
About the Practice
The talented team at Wiese Dental has proudly served the dental needs of patients and families in Sachse, TX for several years. They’re excited to offer a wide range of preventive, cosmetic, and restorative treatment options including gum disease treatment for patients with advanced periodontal illness. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to arrange a visit for you or someone you know, feel free to visit their website or call them today for assistance: (972) 992-1340.