Do your teeth look a little larger than they used to? Maybe the roots of your teeth are exposed? A receding gum line isn’t anything to ignore. Your gum health is essential for your overall well-being. An unhealthy gum line can increase your risk of tooth loss and other dental problems that can affect your health negatively. Unfortunately, your gums will not grow back. Here’s why it’s important to seek treatment right away if your gums are receding.
Causes of Gum Recession
Your gums provide your teeth with support while also covering their vulnerable roots and your underlying bone. If your gums sit too low on your teeth, you can experience sensitivity, decay, and infections. Without sufficient support, your teeth may loosen and fall out.
Gum recession doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a gradual process that can be caused by many things, like aggressive brushing or using a hard-bristled toothbrush. However, it’s most often caused by an infection called gum disease. Gum disease is caused by bacteria in plaque and tartar buildup from poor oral hygiene. The infection can destroy the supporting structures of your teeth with no treatment, including your gums and jawbone. Gum disease has also been linked to several health issues, like heart disease, Alzheimer’s, and diabetes.
Treating Gum Recession
You have many treatments available, depending on the severity of gum recession. If poor brushing habits are the culprit, changing to a soft-bristled toothbrush will help prevent further damage. If you push too hard when brushing, consider an electric toothbrush with a pressure sensor.
Your dentist can provide treatment to stop gum loss and restore a healthy smile. If gum disease is the cause, they may recommend a deep cleaning to remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line. This will stop the infection and allow your gums to seal to your teeth.
If extensive damage has occurred, you may require gum grafting. Tissue from another area of your mouth or a donor will be grafted over your exposed tooth roots to restore your gum line.
Keep Your Gums Healthy
Besides using the right dental products and brushing techniques, you can keep your gums healthy and avoid recession by flossing every day. Daily flossing is the best way to prevent gum disease because it cleans areas your toothbrush can’t reach.
In addition to caring for your mouth at home, visit your dentist every 6 months for a cleaning and checkup. Your dentist will monitor your gum health to detect any concerns for prompt treatment.
About Dr. Thomas Chung
Dr. Chung earned his dental degree at Temple University in Philadelphia and has continued his training in various specialties, including gum disease treatment. He is a proud member of the New York Dental Association and has over 30 years of experience in dentistry. Request an appointment through his website or call his office at (718) 557-9012.