Receding gums are a condition in which the gum tissue surrounding your teeth gradually wears away, revealing a portion of the root of the tooth. Pockets can begin to form between the teeth and gums, which hold bacteria and plaque. The formation of the pockets will make the gum recession more severe, since more bacteria can gather there.
Gum recession needs to be treated by a professional in order to keep your mouth healthy. Without treatment, tooth loss and infection can occur. For help finding a local dental professional, search for a dentist near you.
Common Symptoms of Gum Recession
If you notice a tooth looking longer than normal, you may have receding gums. Symptoms that come along with gum recession also include tooth sensitivity and having loose teeth.
Common Causes of Gum Recession
Advanced gum disease is the main cause of receding gums. Gum disease is a serious infection of the gums and bone surrounding your tooth and if it is not treated, it can lead to bone loss.
Crooked teeth, misaligned teeth and grinding your teeth can also contribute to gum recession. This is due to too much force being placed on the gums and teeth.
Brushing your teeth and gums too hard can also lead to receding gums. Brushing your teeth too hard can wear away the enamel of your teeth, which will cause gum recession.
The only way to determine the cause of your receding gums is by making an appointment with your dentist. They can then review your symptoms, make an accurate diagnosis and give you their recommended treatment plan.
How to Prevent and Treat Receding Gums
Good oral hygiene is the key to preventing receding gums. Remember to brush twice a day to remove any stains from food and to remove plaque. Floss once a day to remove any buildup between your teeth. Having a professional cleaning by your dentist every 3-6 months will also greatly contribute to a healthy smile.
Along with helping you change the habits that caused your receding gums, your dentist will determine whether you would benefit from a deeper cleaning of the teeth and gums called scaling and root planing. Scaling and root planing will remove the plaque and calculus buildup to improve your gum health. For severe cases, scaling and root planing alone will not be effective. Sometimes gum grafting or Bone grafting may also be needed to regenerate the gum tissue.
Who Treats Receding Gums?
A general dentist or periodontist will treat receding gums. If your gums are receding due to gum disease, a periodontist will treat your smile. Periodontists specialize in bone and gum diseases. They will understand the best course of treatment for you and your smile.