Receding gums can be concerning for individuals in many ways, and unfortunately, as a busy dental clinic, we witness many cases. The main issue associated with gum recession is that the gums do not grow back and, left untreated, worsen over time. Often, bleeding can occur, as can sensitivity, tooth decay, and gum disease. This article will discuss the causes of gum recession, lifestyle changes to help, and potential treatment options.
What Is Gum Recession?
In the simplest form, gum recession can be described as when the gums around a tooth start to wear away or move backwards. It is a dental condition that usually occurs over a period of time. You can notice gum recession often because teeth look longer due to reduced gum coverage. If you think you have gum recession, it is advisable to seek professional clarification and help from a dental practice such as Kew Road Dental.
Causes Of Receding Gums
There are many causes of gum recession, and unfortunately, one of the most common reasons is gum disease. Another common cause is brushing too hard, with the toothbrush head wearing away at the gum over time. This can also be exasperated by using bristles that are too coarse.
Smoking can also harm your gums, leading to reduced blood flow, plaque buildup, and gum irritation. Some people are also born with genetics that make them more susceptible to gum recession, with thin gums that are more easily damaged. Age is also a cause, over time, general wear and tear will slowly cause your gums to recede.
In many circumstances, we have found patients to have a combination of the above symptoms, resulting in quicker deterioration.
Warning Signs To Look Out For
It is not uncommon for people to be unaware that they have receding gum, as the symptoms can initially be slow to progress and relatively mild. Some of the more common warning signs to look out for include:
- Sensitivity: Due to the gum moving back, it exposes the parts of the tooth that are often a lot more sensitive. These symptoms can often be exaggerated with hot and cold drinks.
- Bleeding: Bleeding gums can often be a sign of receding gums (as well as many other dental-related issues). Bleeding can be worse during brushing and often due to gingivitis.
- Puffy gums: Often caused by a plaque build-up with a red, puffy look to the gums. This can also be a sign of gum infection, which can speed up the receding process.
- Longer-looking teeth: The further the gum recedes, the more exposed the tooth becomes, making it appear longer and more prominent.
- Bad Breath: A patient can often experience bad breath due to bacteria buildup and disease.
If you experience any of these conditions, seeking professional advice to minimise long-term oral issues is vital.
Preventative Action Plan
There are many techniques that patients can employ themselves to help slow down gum recession. During your regular checkup, speak to your dentist about steps you can take. We have already created an article on tips to keep your teeth and gums healthy. However, some of the preventative care we advise specifically for receding gums to our patients include:
- Regular brushing in a circular motion at least two times a day, making sure that you do not brush too harshly, especially against the gum areas.
- Review your dietary intake; we wrote a recent article on dental health & diet.
- Regular check-ups with your dentist. Try not to make it any longer than six months.
- Manage areas of your lifestyle that can negatively affect your dental health, such as smoking, exercise, alcohol etc.
Treatment Options
There are a number of treatments a dental practice can offer. These will depend on individual circumstances. Contact us at any time to discuss options.
- Cleaning options to help the gums stop regressing.
- Aligners to stop recession caused by crooked teeth.
- Guards are used to protect the teeth from bruxism at night.
- Surgical treatments are dependent upon the severity of the gum recession.
Selecting The Right Dentist
If you are concerned about gum recession, it is important to find the right dentist, as this will significantly impact your treatment's success. Some of the core information you need to base your decision on includes:
- What is their experience in this area?
- What treatment options do they offer?
- Do they offer personalised plans specific to your oral needs?
- You need to feel at ease with your dentist and have confidence in their expertise.
- Ask for an idea of the costs of the treatment.
- Research their reviews and accreditations.
Summary
Receding gums are a common problem that shouldn’t be ignored, as they can lead to serious complications like tooth sensitivity and loss if untreated. Seeking expert dental advice is essential to address issues and prevent further damage. For more information, feel free to contact Kew Road Dental anytime.