Discover Gum Recession Oral Health Practices from the our Dentists
If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity to cold or hot foods and beverages, you may have some gum recession. If you feel some sensations at the base of a tooth or teeth, you may have gum recession in those areas.
Gum recession, also known as gingival recession, is where the gums pull away from the teeth. This is a common dental condition that affects a significant portion of the population. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, approximately 50% of adults have some degree of gum recession and 88% of adults over the age of 65 have gum recession. It is important to note that gum recession can occur at any age, including in children. However, it is more prevalent in older adults and those who have periodontal disease.
Even though gum recession is common, there are ways to prevent it. At Sninski and Schmitt, we are experienced in treating gum recession and guiding patients through oral health routines that help prevent the recession of gums. In this article, we outline several practices that can assist in the prevention of gum recession at any age.
What Happens When Your Gums Recede?
The primary purpose of your gums is to protect your teeth. First, the attached gingiva (gum) securely attaches and connects your teeth to the bone. Second, the unattached gingiva mucosa protects the insides of your cheeks and lips. The edge of the gum tissue that surrounds your teeth is known as the gingival margin. When the margin pulls away from teeth, it leaves the roots exposed and more susceptible to decay and tooth loss. Receding gums do not grow back. Once the gum tissue has pulled back and away from the teeth, it is gone.
Causes of Gum Recession
There are a variety of factors that cause gum recession, primarily periodontal disease, aggressive brushing, and hormonal fluctuations. Other contributing factors are genetics, tooth misalignment, and teeth grinding.
- Periodontal Disease: A bacterial infection that causes periodontal disease can destroy gum tissue and bone, leading to recession as the tissue and bone supporting the teeth are lost.
- Aggressive Brushing: Brushing your teeth too hard or with a hard-bristled toothbrush can wear away gum tissue and enamel, causing recession.
- Hormonal Fluctuations: Experiencing puberty, pregnancy, and menopause can increase gum sensitivity and make gums more prone to recession.
- Genetics: Some individuals who have a genetic predisposition to thin gum tissue, may find they are more susceptible to recession.
- Tooth Misalignment: Misaligned teeth can put uneven pressure on the gums, leading to recession.
- Teeth Grinding and/or Clenching: Grinding or clenching teeth (bruxism) can create pressure on the gums, potentially causing recession.
- Tobacco Use: Smoking and chewing tobacco can irritate gums, increase plaque buildup, and contribute to gum disease, leading to recession.
- Orthodontic Treatment: Braces or other orthodontic treatments can sometimes lead to gum recession if not properly managed.
- Poor Oral Hygiene: Lack of proper brushing and flossing can lead to plaque and tartar buildup, contributing to gum disease and recession.
- Medications: Some medications can cause dry mouth, which can increase the risk of gum disease and recession.
- Lip or Tongue Piercings: These can cause trauma to the gums and lead to recession.
Preventing Gum Recession
You may not always prevent gum recession, especially if you are genetically predisposed to thin gum tissue; however, you can significantly reduce the risk of infection-related gum recession by practicing proper teeth and gum care.
Practice Excellent Oral Hygiene
Practicing a consistent oral hygiene routine with regular dental visits and a healthy lifestyle can assist in preventing receding gums. An oral hygiene routine that includes the following is recommended:
- Using a fluoride toothpaste, brush properly at least 2 times each day for 2 minutes with a soft-bristled toothbrush and using gentle, circular motions.
- Flossing daily removes the plaque between teeth and along the gum line, where a toothbrush can’t reach.
- Using an antimicrobial mouthwash helps reduce bacteria and plaque buildup.
Eat a Balanced Diet
Eat a balanced diet with food for strong teeth and gums. Cut down on the amount of sugary foods and beverages you eat and drink to help prevent gum recession by reducing the bacteria and plaque buildup in your mouth. A healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals, including leafy greens, dairy, and fibrous fruits and vegetables, supports your overall oral health and gum health.
Take Care of Teeth Grinding and Clenching
If you grind or clench your teeth, consider using a night guard to protect your teeth and gums. Added pressure on your teeth and gums harms the gum tissue.
Correct Misaligned Teeth
Correcting teeth that are misaligned can take uneven pressure off of surrounding gums and bone, contributing to recession. Orthodontic treatment aims to realign teeth, evenly distribute chewing forces, and reduce stress on the gums. These corrections can potentially allow the gums to reattach and reverse recession.
Get Regular Dental Checkups
Be sure to keep regular dental checkups with your dentist to help detect and address gum recession early. Follow your dentist’s recommendation for teeth cleanings. You may be directed to have six-month cleanings or you may need more frequent visits.
Treat Gum Disease Early
If you have been diagnosed with gum disease, seek treatment as soon as possible. Some treatments are non-surgical, such as:
- Scaling and Root Planing: This deep cleaning procedure removes plaque and tartar buildup from below the gumline, reducing infection and inflammation.
- Dental Bonding: A tooth-colored resin can be applied to cover exposed roots or reshape teeth damaged by recession.
- Antibacterial Mouthwash: An antibacterial mouthwash can help reduce bacteria and inflammation.
- Desensitizing Agents: These can help reduce sensitivity in exposed roots, making brushing and chewing more comfortable.
Other treatments involve surgery, such as:
- Gum Grafting: This involves using tissue from another area of the mouth (like the palate) or donated tissue to cover exposed roots and rebuild the gumline.
- Pinhole Surgical Technique: A minimally invasive gum grafting procedure that can achieve similar results with less discomfort and recovery time.
- Laser-Assisted Gum Therapy: Lasers can be used to reshape gum tissue and promote regeneration, potentially reducing recession.
- Bone and Tissue Regeneration: If bone loss has occurred, a procedure to regenerate bone and tissue may be recommended.
Contact Sninski & Schmitt Family Dentistry to Schedule Your Appointment
For a dental team that can work with you to diagnose gum issues early and guide you in preventing and treating them, contact our Cary and Holly Springs dentist office, Sninski & Schmitt Family Dentistry. We are currently accepting new patients. Reach us at our Holly Springs dentist office at 919-600-6262 or our dentist in Cary office at 919-467-2203, or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.