Many people realize something may not be normal while brushing or flossing their teeth. Of course, the only way to know your gum lines are receding is to look in the mirror. Though there are many causes of receding gums, it is important not to panic but rather to note this as something to watch closely and ask your dentist about as soon as possible.
In the early stages, the signs are subtle, but once gum tissue starts to recede, the condition can progress if a dental professional doesn’t treat it promptly. Once you talk to your dentist, he or she can create a plan to slow the process or stop it altogether. Receding gums can lead to infections down the road, such as periodontitis, gingivitis, and abscesses. The best way to watch for receding gums is to take pictures and record the information.
Periodontal Disease
One of the biggest causes of receding gums is periodontal disease, an infection that deteriorates the gum and bone tissues that keep the teeth in its place. If this disease goes untreated, then it can lead to tooth loss. Another name for periodontal disease is gum disease, which is the more common term.
Some people who suffer from gum disease may feel discomfort and sensitivity in their teeth. Two other symptoms of gum disease are bad breath and swollen gums. Many people will try to block bad breath with mints or mouthwash, but the smell will not go away due to the infection. Some people may try to save money by not having these symptoms looked at due to the cost, but the truth is that it will not get better on its own. Dentures are much more expensive. Thus, it makes sense to have regular dental appointments and teeth cleaning.
Inherited Traits
Studies show in some patients, a person who has receding gums may have a tendency toward it in their genes and pass it down through the generations. One or both parents with gum disease could lead to their child suffering from the same issues. Parents need to know what condition they suffer from, so they can make their dentist aware of the situation. Other issues that cause receding gums in children go back to genetics as well.
If someone in the family home shares utensils and dishes with or drinks from the same glass or cup as a person with an oral infection, the bacteria can spread in the household. When someone has any oral issues, it is important to seek dental help to eliminate the problem before it spreads. The earlier you detect a problem, the easier it is to treat any issues.
Not Brushing Properly
The best way to avoid receding gums is by using preventive measures. Brushing and flossing are the best ways to keep up with oral hygiene. If you overlook preventive measures or do not perform them correctly, the chances are that more significant problems will arise over time.
As a reminder, people should brush no less than twice a day. Studies show that bacteria will not form if people follow this advice. It is also a good idea to brush after every meal to increase your chances of maintaining a healthy mouth. To shield your teeth and breath, flossing and using mouthwash can add to your efforts’ success as well as fluoride treatments.
Other Causes and What to Do
Some of the lesser-known reasons for receding gums involve brushing and sleeping habits as well as smoking. All it takes to eliminate these causes is swapping harmful habits for good ones.
Brushing too hard can cause your gums to recede, and worn enamel can cause teeth to crack or chip later in life. You can switch to a brush with softer bristles and clean effectively with gentler, circular motions.
Grinding your teeth while you sleep puts pressure on them and could cause your gums to recede. Your dentist can give you a mouth guard to wear at night to resolve this issue.
If you smoke, you need to know that it’s as bad for your gums as it is for the rest of you. It causes plaque buildup and irritates gum tissue. Quitting smoking and abstaining from other tobacco products can slow the gums’ recession.
Our team at Lovett Dental Beaumont can help you correct any of the issues we’ve mentioned here. If you think your gums may be receding, call 409-924-8100 to set up an appointment.
