If you’re like many, your gums have likely faced bleeding, color changes, or sensitivity in the past. Those symptoms are ones plenty of people deal with from time to time. That said, do you know what to do when your gum tissues start receding? While this scenario isn’t talked about much, it happens enough that you’ll want to stay prepared. Make sure that happens by considering what causes your gums to recede below.
What are “Receding Gums,” Anyway?
Gums don’t just bleed, swell, or ache when in trouble. Depending on the problem, they can sometimes recede if they’re not helped.
“Receding gums” refer to gum tissues slowly pulling away from your teeth. When present, they can greatly harm your health by exposing the roots of your teeth. This exposure often lets bacteria reach the tooth roots and cause severe tooth decay and sensitivity. Worse yet, such symptoms can progress into tooth loss if the recession isn’t treated.
Why Would Your Gums Recede?
Several factors can cause (or worsen) gum recession, including the following:
- Poor Oral Care – Once enough plaque builds around them, your gums can become inflamed and infected. They’ll then start to recede as the infection progresses.
- Overbrushing – You can easily irritate your gums if you brush too hard. From there, the irritation would make your gum tissues recede.
- Teeth Grinding – Aside from causing enamel loss, teeth grinding can also trigger gum recession. The pressure it generates sometimes irritates gums and makes them retreat.
- Smoking – Based on current research, smoking tobacco irritates the gums and causes gum disease. Both of these effects often lead to gum recession.
How Do You Treat Gum Recession?
Gum recession isn’t something you can reverse, at least not naturally; the receded tissues don’t grow back. However, the right treatment from your dentist can prevent further damage and more.
Modern dentists have several ways to treat receding gums. The most common one is scaling and root planning, which removes plaque from the gumline to stop their recession. On the other hand, some dentists offer nightguards that prevent teeth grinding; such devices prevent pressure from irritating your gums.
To confirm what’s making your gums recede, see your dental provider. They’ll gladly diagnose the cause and offer up an appropriate treatment!
About the Practice
Pleasant Grove Family Dentistry is based in Texarkana, TX. Led by Dr. Torin Marracino, our practice takes pride in its highly effective and varied dental care. We offer preventive, cosmetic, and even restorative treatments tailored to your smile’s needs, ensuring the best results possible. That means your whole family can see us for the thriving grins you’ve always wanted! For more details or to book a visit, please contact us on our website or by phone at (903)-838-9700.