Can You Fix Receding Gums?
There are a few signs that you may be experiencing gum recession, a condition in which the gum line pulls back, exposing more tooth structure. Teeth appearing longer than they once were, root sensitivity, and loose teeth are all indications of gum recession. Gum recession occurs gradually, so you may not notice when it begins.
Can you fix receding gums?
Gum recession can be treated depending on the severity. A mild recession may be slowed by a scaling and root planing treatment at your dental office. This is a type of deep cleaning that takes a few visits because the side of the mouth being treated has to be numbed, allowing your hygienist to reach well below the gum line to remove tartar and bacteria on the root surfaces.
If scaling and root planing do not provide the desired results, or if the recession is too severe, your dentist may refer you to a periodontist who can perform a gum surgery to restore the area and prevent further damage.
So, what causes gum recession?
A number of factors can lead to gum recession, the most common being poor oral hygiene. It is important to brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristle toothbrush and to floss at least once a day. Failing to do so can lead to periodontal disease, which develops when plaque and bacteria collect on the teeth and gums. A few signs of periodontal disease are swollen, tender gum tissue, bleeding after brushing and flossing, and bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth that does not go away after brushing.
Below is a list of additional factors that can cause gum recession.
- Brushing too hard: Overly aggressive brushing can do more harm than good. While brushing is crucial, it is just as important to do so gently and with a soft-bristle toothbrush.
- Genetics: Some patients are genetically prone to periodontal disease, regardless of their preventative measures.
- Smoking: Tobacco users are more likely to develop periodontal disease due to a build-up of plaque and bacteria.
- Bruxism: Bruxism is clenching and grinding your teeth, often in your sleep. Too much pressure on the teeth can cause the gums to recede. Your dentist can fabricate a custom night guard to help alleviate some of the force being applied to your teeth while you sleep.
- Misalignment and Malocclusion: Crooked teeth, as well as a bad bite, can make patients more susceptible to recession because of uneven pressure applied while eating and speaking.
- Hormone levels: Estrogen levels in women can cause gum recession. This can occur during any major change, such as puberty, pregnancy (gestational gingivitis), and menopause.
If you notice any signs of gum recession, speak with your dentist as soon as possible so that you can receive treatment in a timely manner. Gum recession will only get worse if left untreated and cannot be healed without intervention by your dentist or periodontist.