Receding gums, also known as gingival recession, is a condition where the gum tissue around your teeth pulls back and exposes more of your tooth or its root. This can cause sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures and may even lead to tooth loss in severe cases. In this blog post, we will discuss the causes and effects of receding gums on your oral health and explore some ways to prevent and treat this condition.

Causes of Receding Gums:

There are several factors that can contribute to receding gums, including:

  1. Gum disease: The most common cause of receding gums is gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. This is an infection of the gums that can cause them to recede and eventually lead to tooth loss if left untreated.
  2. Aggressive brushing: Brushing your teeth too hard or using a toothbrush with hard bristles can cause the enamel to wear away and the gums to recede.
  3. Genetics: Some people may be more prone to gum recession due to their genetic makeup.
  4. Tobacco use: Smoking or using other tobacco products can damage the gums and increase the risk of gum disease and recession.
  5. Hormonal changes: Changes in hormones during pregnancy, menopause, or puberty can make the gums more susceptible to recession.

Effects of Receding Gums on Oral Health:

Receding gums can have several negative effects on your oral health, including:

  1. Sensitivity: When the gums recede, it exposes the roots of the teeth which are sensitive to hot and cold temperatures.
  2. Decay: Exposed roots are more vulnerable to decay, which can lead to cavities.
  3. Gum disease: Receding gums can increase the risk of gum disease, which can cause further recession and even tooth loss.
  4. Tooth loss: In severe cases, receding gums can lead to tooth loss.

How to Avoid Receding Gums:

Fortunately, there are several things you can do to prevent or slow down the progression of receding gums, including:

  1. Brush and floss regularly: Proper oral hygiene can help prevent gum disease and recession. Brush twice a day with a toothpaste for gum disease using a soft-bristled brush. Also remember to floss daily after every meal.
  2. Use a mouthguard: If you grind or clench your teeth, wearing a mouthguard can help reduce the pressure on your teeth and gums.
  3. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush: Using a toothbrush with soft bristles can help prevent enamel wear and gum recession.
  4. Quit smoking: Quitting smoking or using other tobacco products can help reduce the risk of gum disease and recession.
  5. Eat a balanced diet: A healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals can help strengthen your teeth and gums.

Treatment for Receding Gums:

If you already have receding gums, there are several treatments available to help slow down the progression of the condition and improve your oral health. These include:

  1. Scaling and root planing: This is a deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smooths out the roots of the teeth.
  2. Gum grafting: This procedure involves taking tissue from another part of the mouth and attaching it to the area where the gums have receded.
  3. Antibiotics: Antibiotics may be prescribed to help treat gum disease and prevent further recession.
  4. Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the damage and prevent further recession.

Conclusion:

Receding gums can be a painful and frustrating condition, but it is also preventable and treatable. By using the best toothpaste for gum repair, taking proper care of your teeth and gums, you can reduce the risk of gum disease and recession and enjoy a healthy smile for years to come. If you suspect that you have receding gums, it is important to see your dentist as soon as possible.

If you’ve been diagnosed or if you want to prevent Gum Diseases, order our plaque removal and tartar fighting Toothpaste from LIVFRESH today!