Receding Gums Symptoms
Gum recession is most often a result of poor oral hygiene and has consequences that can cause serious problems. Receding gums can cause bone loss and eventually lead to tooth loss. When our gums recede, the root surface of the tooth becomes exposed.
Receding Gums Symptoms
One of the most obvious signs of receding gums is that your teeth appear longer than they once did. A few other symptoms that you may experience are often related to gum disease and can be a sign of recession, including:
- Tender, swollen gums
- Pain or sensitivity along the gum line
- Bleeding with brushing or flossing
- Exposed roots
- Loose teeth
- Halitosis (chronic bad breath)
Receding Gums Causes
Periodontal disease develops when plaque and bacteria build up in the gum pockets and calcify into tartar. Healthy gum pockets measure a depth between 0-3 millimeters, but when tartar collects in those pockets, the gum tissue pulls away from the surface of the root and creates a deeper pocket. A few causes of gum recession include:
- Periodontal disease
- Tobacco use
- Overly aggressive brushing
- Genetics
- Diabetes, HIV, and other medical conditions
- Dry mouth
Minor gum recession is normal as we age, but your dentist will be able to determine if the degree of recession is normal due to aging or if something more is going on.
Receding Gums Treatment
If the recession is severe and beyond that which your dentist can treat with a scaling and root planing, they will refer you to a periodontist for specialized treatment. Depending on the degree of recession, you could require a minor surgery to repair any damage done to the gum tissue. Your periodontist will determine what treatment is appropriate for your individual case in an effort to give you the best chance for gum tissue revival.
Left untreated, gum recession can lead to bone loss and eventually tooth loss. Tartar and bacteria will begin to eat away at the underlying bone structure and, in turn, cause tooth mobility. Once teeth become mobile, they can easily be lost, which then leads to a domino effect of further bone loss and additional tooth loss.
Receding Gum Prevention
The best way to keep your mouth healthy and avoid gum recession is good oral hygiene with daily brushing and flossing to remove food debris, plaque, and bacteria. Having your teeth professionally cleaned at least twice a year will greatly increase the chances of catching periodontal disease early, allowing you to take the necessary measures to prevent gum recession.
Any problem that you notice with your teeth or gums needs to be evaluated by your dentist at the earliest opportunity. The sooner issues are caught, the less damage is incurred, and the easier treatment will be.