You likely know how to manage most gum issues. When the normally pink tissues are bleeding, swelling, or changing color, it can seem easy to grasp the underlying cause(s). That said, you may not know what’s causing your gums to recede. This oral issue doesn’t get discussed as much as the others. However, your local Boston dentist can help you work through it. Just keep reading to learn the causes and solutions to your receding gums.
Wait, What are Receding Gums?
Your gums may do more than bleed or swell if they’re facing challenges. In some cases, they could actually start to suffer from gum recession.
Gum recession occurs when your gum tissues begin pulling away from your teeth. This effect is a big deal, as it exposes your dental roots and harms oral health. Once bacteria reaches these exposed areas, it can cause further tooth decay and sensitivity. You’d then be at risk of tooth loss instead of just lost gum tissue.
What Causes Your Gums to Recede?
In the end, various factors can lead to gum recession. The most common ones are the following:
- Poor Oral Hygiene – When plaque builds around them, your gums can become inflamed and infected. They’ll slowly start to recede if that happens.
- Tooth Grinding – Besides wearing down enamel, grinding your teeth can cause gum recession. The habit generates enough pressure to make the tissues recede.
- Overbrushing – Brushing too hard will irritate your gums. In fact, it’ll likely damage the tissues and make them recede.
- Tobacco Use – Using tobacco is known to cause gum disease, which triggers gum recession.
Can You Treat Receding Gums?
You can’t reverse gum recession; the destroyed tissues won’t grow back. However, you can still take steps to manage and prevent the issue. You just need to see a dentist and practice good oral habits.
Depending on its cause, a dentist can treat receding gums in several ways. They may perform scaling and root planing if the underlying issue is gum disease. By removing plaque below the gumline, this service could keep your gums from receding further. On the other hand, they could offer a custom nightguard if the recession stems from teeth grinding.
At the same time, you can avoid further gum recession with good oral care. Cleaning your teeth and gums regularly (and gently) will prevent plaque buildup. So, please brush twice daily, floss once daily, and rinse often with mouthwash. Those actions should help your gums stay right where they are.
Hopefully, you now know what’s causing your gums to recede. With that out of the way, take action to protect your smile.
About the Practice
Turning Leaf Dental is based in Boston, MA. Led by Drs. Rachel Beamer and Daliah Salem, our practice makes patient comfort and quality dental care its top goals. Whether you need preventive, cosmetic, or restorative work, your time with us will be smooth and effective. We’ll care for your smile so it looks and feels better than ever before! For more details or to book a visit, you can reach us on our website or by phone at (617)-536-5182.