Understanding Gum Recession: Causes, Symptoms and Treatments

You may not think about your gums often, but they play a crucial role in your smile! Healthy gums help protect your teeth, but when they start to recede, your smile can suffer. Gum recession, when the gum tissue pulls back from the tooth, is more common than you might think and can lead to tooth sensitivity, increased risk of decay, and even tooth loss.

Understanding why it happens and how to treat or prevent it can make all the difference. Here's everything you need to know about gum recession, from our Church Road team. If gum recession is affecting you, then contact us and we can arrange a consultation with our dentists at Church Road Dental Care Centre.

Why do gums recede?

Gum recession can happen for several reasons, some of which are preventable with the right care. Here are a few common causes:

Aggressive Brushing

You might think brushing hard will get your teeth extra clean, but brushing too vigorously can actually wear away gum tissue over time. It's like scrubbing a delicate fabric too roughly - it's likely to fray! Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle, circular strokes to keep your gums healthy.

Gum Disease

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a major cause of gum recession. Plaque buildup leads to inflammation, causing the gum tissue to pull away from the teeth. Without treatment, this can result in progressive gum recession. Regular dental cleanings with our Teddington dentists can help keep gum disease at bay.

Genetics

Sometimes, gum recession can be part of your genetic makeup. If you have family members with receding gums, you might be more prone to it. Staying on top of your oral hygiene is especially important if you have a genetic predisposition to gum issues.

Tobacco Use

Smoking and chewing tobacco are known contributors to gum recession. Tobacco irritates the gums, restricting blood flow and making it harder for the tissue to stay healthy. Quitting is one of the best things you can do for your oral health and overall well-being.

Teeth Grinding

Grinding or clenching your teeth can put undue stress on the gums, causing them to recede. If you suspect you grind your teeth, talk to our Church Road dentists about a mouthguard to protect your gums and teeth.

Spotting the symptoms of gum recession

How do you know if your gums are receding? Here are some tell-tale signs:

• Tooth Sensitivity: If hot or cold foods make your teeth ache, it could be due to exposed tooth roots from receding gums.
• Longer-Looking Teeth: As gums pull back, teeth may appear longer than they used to.
• Exposed Roots: In advanced cases, you may see the roots of your teeth.
• Red or Swollen Gums: Inflammation around the gumline can signal gum problems that lead to recession.

Preventing gum recession

Prevention is always better than cure! To keep your gums healthy, remember to brush and floss gently, schedule regular cleanings with your Church Road dentist, and avoid smoking. A balanced diet and good oral hygiene are key to preserving your gum health and protecting your smile for years to come.

Gum recession may be common, but with the right care and a little help from your Teddington dentist, you can keep it at bay and maintain a healthy, happy mouth. Just contact us to discuss next steps to preserve your smile.