Receding Gums Treatments
Gum recession happens slowly over time, and it cannot be reversed, meaning your gums will not grow back. Most people do not realize they have developed gum recession and possible gum disease until it is too late. You can address potential gum recession by closely examining your teeth and gums every day. Also, see your dentist twice a year to detect problems early and prevent them from getting worse.
Symptoms of Gum Recession
In addition to less gum tissue around your teeth, other symptoms of gum recession include red, irritated, and swollen gums; bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth; loose teeth or teeth that have moved in your mouth; a change in your bite; and pain while chewing.
Causes of Gum Recession
Gum recession can be caused by the following factors:
- Poor oral hygiene that leads to plaque buildup
- Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease
- Smoking or other tobacco use
- Normal aging
- Family history of gum disease
- Medical conditions, such as diabetes, and certain medications
Brushing your teeth too hard may also cause gum recession. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush gently using circular motions. Additional causes of gum recession include mouth trauma from an accident or sports injury; misaligned teeth; and teeth grinding and clenching, especially while you sleep.
Treatment for Gum Recession
Treatment for gum recession depends on the primary cause of your issue:
- Better Dental Habits. If you have poor oral hygiene or brush too hard, your dentist can show you proper brushing and flossing techniques. Also, use a mouth rinse daily and dental picks or another type of interdental cleaner to keep hard-to-reach areas clean.
- Scaling and Root Planing. A deep cleaning procedure called scaling and root planing helps treat gum recession. Your dentist uses special instruments to remove plaque and tartar from the surface of your teeth and the roots of your teeth.
- Gum Grafting. If your gum recession is serious, a procedure called gum grafting can restore gum tissue. Your dentist will use tissue from another part of your mouth, typically the roof of your mouth, and graft—or attach it—around an area of significant gum recession or exposed tooth roots. Once the area heals, it protects the exposed tooth root.
Tips for Preventing Gum Recession
Brushing your teeth twice a day is not enough to prevent gum recession. You must also incorporate flossing into your daily routine. Flossing at least once a day helps prevent plaque from building up on your teeth and damaging your gums. Another essential part of your daily routine should be using an antimicrobial mouthwash. Before bed is a good time to brush for two minutes, floss, and rinse with mouthwash.
Be sure you are not brushing your teeth too hard. Overly aggressive brushing can damage your gum tissue and wear down your tooth enamel near your gumline. Brush gently, using circular motions.
A healthy lifestyle also helps prevent gum recession. Eat a balanced diet. Stop smoking and using other tobacco products. Staying hydrated is essential for preventing gum disease and promoting good dental health and overall health. Water helps you produce more saliva, which helps prevent bacteria that can cause gum infection from forming in your mouth.
Even if you take great care of your teeth, gums, and mouth, you should still visit your dentist regularly, preferably every six months. Having your teeth professionally cleaned goes a long way toward preventing gum recession, gum disease, and other dental issues. And the earlier you or your dentist detects any problems, the more likely you will be able to prevent them from getting worse.
Related Article: Can Receding Gums Grow Back?