You want a beautiful, healthy smile. To achieve your goal, preventing tooth decay is only part of good oral health. It is just as important to have healthy gums. Why is gum health so important? What is gum recession? What causes it? How can you prevent and treat gum recession? Read on to learn how to protect your gums and prevent recession.
Why is gum health so important?
Our gums support the teeth in our mouth. They cover and protect the bone around our teeth. Without healthy gums, our teeth would simply fall out.
What is gum recession?
Gum recession, or receding gums, is how dentists describe the gums when they start to shrink or draw away from the crown of the tooth. This may leave part of the root of the tooth unprotected. Exposed roots are often sensitive to cold, hot, or sweet and are more likely to decay. Gum recession will grow progressively worse without treatment. In time, teeth affected by gum recession can become loose or fall out.
What causes gum recession?
Various factors contribute to gum recession. A common culprit is gum disease, also known as periodontitis. Excessive or aggressive brushing can also cause the gums to recede. Gum trauma and heredity may also play a part.
How can I prevent gum recession?
Proper daily care is vital for healthy gums. Daily flossing and twice daily brushing will remove the plaque and bacteria that lead to gum disease. Talk with your dentist or hygienist about the most effective tools and techniques for your daily oral hygiene routine. Let them know if you think you are brushing too aggressively. They can help you find the right balance of brushing to keep your teeth and gums clean without overdoing it and causing injury. If unusual tooth position is a barrier to gum health, you may benefit from orthodontic treatment to align the teeth and make them easier to keep clean.
What if I already have gum recession?
If you already have receding gums, your treatment options will depend on the cause and degree of the recession. Gum recession is likely to get progressively worse if left untreated, so it is important to seek treatment right away. Your dentist will give you an individualised treatment plan, including daily home care, a professional deep cleaning, and regular check ups to prevent further gum loss.
You can successfully prevent and treat gum recession. It is an important part of maintaining good oral health and preserving your smile. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact us.